Panini has made a strategic move in the world of sports trading cards by securing an exclusive partnership with LIV Golf, a significant development announced recently. The collaboration marks Panini’s debut in producing golf trading cards under its own brand, following a long-established history through the Donruss brand since the early ’80s, with the acquisition of Donruss paving the way for this new venture.
The agreement between Panini and LIV Golf encompasses the creation and distribution of trading cards featuring the players from LIV Golf, presenting a fresh and exciting opportunity for collectors and fans globally. Panini’s upcoming line of golf trading card products will include physical cards with match-worn memorabilia and player autographs. The initial release will feature LIV Golf trading cards under the renowned Panini brands Prizm and Impeccable, in addition to a real-time Panini Instant card program capturing highlights and memorable moments from tournaments and seasons, as well as special LIV Golf Team sets.
LIV Golf, established in 2022 with backing from Saudi Arabia and featuring a team-oriented structure in its 54-hole tournaments, has garnered significant attention with 54 players confirmed for 2024 across its 14 international stops. Panini has wasted no time promoting the 2024 LIV team sets on its platform, indicating the swift progress made in establishing this partnership.
Greg Norman, Commissioner and CEO of LIV Golf, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with Panini, emphasizing the opportunity to introduce innovative products to a global audience of fans and collectors. The partnership is envisioned as a means to raise the profiles of LIV Golf players and teams within the collectibles space, a sentiment echoed by Ian Poulter, co-captain of Majesticks GC, who eagerly anticipates the partnership with the leading trading card brand.
Mark Warsop, CEO of Panini America, highlighted the distinctive and inventive format of LIV Golf as a driving force behind the partnership, citing the team and league structure as offering new dimensions of collectability for fans. Warsop believes that LIV Golf’s appeal to younger demographics and its roster of top-tier players align seamlessly with Panini’s brand, setting the stage for a fruitful collaboration that will cultivate a dedicated fan base.
With Panini gearing up to unveil this groundbreaking line of golf trading cards, LIV Golf boasts a roster of high-profile players, including major championship winners and golf legends, ensuring a captivating product range for both golf enthusiasts and collectors. This partnership with LIV Golf comes at a time when Upper Deck is also set to launch its latest golf set featuring PGA Tour stars, underlining the increasing interest in golf memorabilia and trading cards as a burgeoning collectibles market.
