Panini has secured an exclusive multi-year deal to create LIV Golf trading cards, venturing into golf collectibles with plans to launch innovative memorabilia and autograph cards.
In a strategic move to broaden its sports collectibles range, Panini has embarked on a pioneering partnership with LIV Golf, securing exclusive rights to produce trading cards for the tour. This collaboration marks Panini's inaugural venture into the golf trading card market, a significant expansion beyond its prior release of golf cards under the Donruss brand in the early '80s, predating Panini's acquisition of the brand.
Panini is set to introduce a fresh series of trading card products that aim to captivate fans and collectors globally with never-before-seen offerings. The initial lineup will feature physical trading cards that include autographs and match-worn memorabilia from LIV Golf athletes. The launch will incorporate Panini's renowned Prizm and Impeccable brands and introduce a Panini Instant card program, which will produce real-time cards capturing the triumphs and noteworthy moments from LIV Golf tournaments and seasons, as well as special LIV Golf Team sets.
The partnership comes as LIV Golf, which began in 2022 with backing from Saudi Arabian interests, continues to grow its roster, now boasting 54 players for the 2024 season. The tour, known for its international stops and innovative team competition format, aligns with Panini's vision of offering unique collectibles that appeal to a broad audience.
Greg Norman, LIV Golf Commissioner and CEO, expressed his excitement about partnering with Panini, emphasizing the opportunity to bring new products to millions of fans and to enhance the visibility of LIV Golf players and teams in the collectibles market. The sentiment was echoed by Ian Poulter, co-captain of Majesticks GC, who noted his personal enthusiasm for being part of a collaboration with a premier trading card brand.
Panini America's CEO, Mark Warsop, highlighted LIV Golf's fresh approach to the sport and its compatibility with Panini's mission to innovate within the trading card industry. Warsop pointed out the league's team and league formats as particularly exciting features that introduce a new level of collectability and fan engagement.
As Panini gears up to debut its LIV Golf trading card line, the tour's notable players, including major champions and golf legends, promise to make this collection highly sought after among collectors. This partnership represents a significant milestone in the trading card industry, offering a fresh perspective on golf collectibles and memorabilia.