Tee Times

LIV Golf Embraces National Identities as the League Moves Toward a Franchise Model

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LIV Golf is moving decisively toward a franchise-based model built around strong national identities. This strategic shift, already visible across several teams, is expected to continue through the 2026 season, with more rebrands and structural changes likely to be announced. The goal is clear: create teams that feel rooted in culture, geography, and fan identity, bringing the league closer to regional audiences around the world.

The first major step in this direction came with the transformation of Iron Heads GC into the Korean Golf Club. This rebrand went far beyond a name change. With Kevin Na stepping aside and Byeong-Hun An taking over as captain, the team now reflects a distinctly South Korean identity. The new emblem, a white tiger, is deeply symbolic in Korean culture, representing strength, protection, and resilience. The visual and sporting overhaul highlights LIV Golf’s growing focus on Asia as a key growth market.

Soon after, LIV Golf confirmed a second rebrand aligned with the same philosophy. Stinger Golf Club officially became Southern Guards GC, reinforcing its South African roots. The team’s renewed image centers around the rhinoceros, a powerful symbol in South African heritage that reflects endurance, determination, and pride. With this move, LIV Golf strengthens its African presence and reinforces the idea of teams acting as cultural ambassadors, not just competitive units.

This evolution also places the spotlight on Europe and, in particular, golf in Spain. One of the most talked-about teams is Fireballs GC, captained by Sergio García. The team already carries a strong Spanish identity through its players and leadership, making it especially relevant for fans who follow professional golf in Spain. While a full Spanish rebrand is being considered, García has confirmed that discussions are ongoing and no immediate name change has been finalized.

Spain’s importance to professional golf extends beyond team branding. As one of Europe’s most popular destinations for golf holidays, Spain continues to attract international golfers drawn by its climate, world-class courses, and competitive legacy. LIV Golf’s growing alignment with national identities only reinforces this connection between elite competition and tourism-driven golf markets.

Looking ahead, similar branding strategies may expand further across Asia. The team led by Anirban Lahiri is rumoured to adopt the name Southern Balindi GC, aligning the franchise more closely with regional culture and heritage. If confirmed, it would be another step toward LIV Golf’s vision of globally recognisable teams tied to specific markets.

By blending a franchise system with national representation, LIV Golf is creating stronger narratives, deeper rivalries, and more emotional connections with fans. For followers of professional golf, and for those inspired to plan golf holidays around major destinations like Spain, this evolution adds a new layer of meaning to the sport, both on and off the course.

Relax and Play: Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa

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The Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa offers the perfect escape from daily routines, combining luxury, wellness, and golf holidays in the Algarve. Recently celebrating its 18th anniversary, the hotel underwent a complete renovation, bringing a fresh and modern look while maintaining a connection to Portuguese culture through the design of Nini Andrade Silva.

In the rooms, Portuguese tiles are also highlighted on the headboards and bathroom walls. “It’s a way to integrate local culture into an international hotel brand,” said João Rosado, Director of Sales and Marketing, during a guided visit of Presstour. These artistic touches make the stay feel authentic and uniquely Portuguese.

All 176 rooms and 40 apartments now feature balconies, many with views over the hotel’s central gardens and six sparkling pools. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the garden, exquisite dinners at the Cilantro restaurant, and moments of relaxation that truly rejuvenate the body and mind. The resort’s culinary offerings include dishes such as seared scallops with cauliflower and guanciale, and a Provençal rack of lamb with seasonal vegetables.

Wellness is at the heart of the Hilton Vilamoura experience. The 7 Seven Spa, one of the largest in mainland Portugal, features four thermal pools, saunas, Turkish baths, ice buckets, and specialized treatment rooms for massages and holistic therapies. Guests can also enjoy outdoor yoga areas, fitness machines, mini-golf, padel courts, and more, making it an ideal destination for both adults and children.

For golf enthusiasts, the resort is close to some of the Algarve’s top courses, including the Old Course Vilamoura, The Els Club Vilamoura, Pinhal Golf Course, Laguna Golf Course, and Millennium Golf Course. This proximity makes it a perfect choice for golf holidays in Portugal, whether for beginners or seasoned players.

With versatile meeting rooms, advanced event technology, and spaces for socializing or family fun, the Hilton Vilamoura offers experiences for all types of guests. From romantic getaways and family vacations to business retreats and golf holidays, the resort ensures every stay leaves guests feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to the beauty and culture of the Algarve.

Hyatt Regency Vilamoura Algarve Opens as a New Luxury Landmark

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The Hyatt Regency Vilamoura Algarve has officially opened its doors, following the rebranding of the former Dom Pedro Vilamoura Hotel. The property is now managed by Details, the hospitality platform of Arrow Global in Portugal, marking an important milestone for luxury tourism in the Algarve.

The hotel features 257 modern rooms and 21 spacious suites, spread across six different categories, designed to offer comfort, elegance, and flexibility for both leisure and business travellers. Guests can enjoy several dining and social spaces, including the Brasa Coastal Steakhouse, the relaxed Terrace Pool Bar, and the stylish Lume Lounge Bar, all created to reflect the coastal lifestyle of Vilamoura.

For events and corporate gatherings, the Hyatt Regency Vilamoura offers 993 square metres of versatile meeting and event space, including a large ballroom that can host up to 300 participants, fully supported by Hyatt’s professional event services. This makes the hotel an attractive choice for conferences, incentives, and group travel.

Wellbeing and active leisure are also central to the guest experience. The hotel includes a fully equipped Technogym fitness centre, a heated indoor swimming pool, outdoor yoga areas, padel and pickleball courts, mini-golf, pétanque, and a beach volleyball area. The spa features a sauna, whirlpool, three treatment rooms, a kids club, and a playground, making it ideal for families and couples alike.

One of the hotel’s greatest strengths is its prime location. Situated close to the Vilamoura Marina and renowned beaches such as Praia da Falésia, the hotel is also surrounded by some of the best golf courses in Portugal. Golfers staying here have easy access to The Els Club Vilamoura, Old Course Vilamoura, Pinhal Golf Course, Laguna Golf Course, and Millennium Golf Course.

According to Francisco Moser, co-CEO of Details, partnering with the globally recognised Hyatt Regency brand reinforces Vilamoura’s position as one of the leading premium destinations in Portugal and Europe. With its combination of luxury accommodation, wellness facilities, and proximity to world-class golf, the Hyatt Regency Vilamoura Algarve sets a new standard for a high-end golf holiday in the Algarve.