Cover HSBC is powering a new era for global golf audiences with its involvement in LIV Golf 2026 (Photo: Pedro Salado/ LIV Golf)
HSBC is powering a new era for global golf audiences with its involvement in LIV Golf 2026 (Photo: Pedro Salado/ LIV Golf)
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As LIV Golf makes its stop in the city with this March, a high-level panel discussion featuring CEO Scott O’Neil and stars Ian Poulter and Paul Casey explores the league's impact and growing presence in the region—all bolstered by a landmark title partnership with HSBC
As the global golf calendar turns its focus to the Hong Kong Golf Club at Fanling for the HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong tournament, taking place from 5–8 March 2026, the conversation surrounding the sport has shifted from competition to a broader narrative of international expansion. At a recent panel discussion ahead of the event moderated by Tatler chief experience officer Sean Fitzpatrick, league leaders and players detailed why this stop has become a fixture in their global schedule.
The Gateway to Asia
For Scott O’Neil, CEO of LIV Golf, the decision to cement Hong Kong on the schedule is a matter of strategic geography. He views the city not just as a host, but as a "cornerstone" for the league's ambitions in the region.
"Hong Kong is an important gateway for golf's continued growth in Asia," O'Neil explained. "As a global league, we are committed to investing in dynamic markets where sport, entertainment, and culture are celebrated on an international scale."
Above Frank Fang, head of commercial banking, Hong Kong and Macau, HSBC (Photo: Zed Lee/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Above LIV Golf kicks off with the opening drive party at M+ Hong Kong (Photo: Zed Lee/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Frank Fang, head of commercial banking, Hong Kong and Macau, HSBC (Photo: Zed Lee/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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Above From left: Sean Fitzpatrick, Scott O’Neil, Ian Poulter and Paul Casey (Photo: Zed Lee/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Above Lok Yim, regional head of Asia-Pacific for HSBC Private Bank (Photo: Zed Lee/ Tatler Hong Kong)
From left: Sean Fitzpatrick, Scott O’Neil, Ian Poulter and Paul Casey (Photo: Zed Lee/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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Refining the Format
A significant talking point of the 2026 season is the transition to a 72-hole format. O'Neil frames this change as a natural maturation of the league. "The most successful leagues around the world—whether it is the Premier League or the NBA—continue to innovate their product," O'Neil said. "The heightened interest we have seen in Hong Kong opens the door for us to add that extra day of golf. It delivers the energy and access that a global audience now expects."
The Power of Partnership
The tournament marks a commercial milestone as the first in the league’s history to feature a title sponsor. O'Neil emphasised that the partnership with HSBC provides institutional weight that elevates the event. Joining the panel, Lok Yim, regional head of Asia-Pacific for HSBC Private Bank, detailed the bank’s vision. "We are very proud; it is a real milestone for HSBC to join as a sponsor for LIV,” he said. “It is part of our commitment to you, our clients, for a unique experience, of having the right connections, and building a community of shared passions. We want to be the bank for entrepreneurial wealth... to help to grow, to protect, and to connect wealth, and to make sure that we have shared ambitions, whether it is on or off the golf course."
From left: Lok Yim, Scott O’Neil, Barry O'Byrne, Ian Poulter, Paul Casey, Kanas Chan and Andrea de Vincentiis (Photo: Zed Lee/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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The Players’ Perspective
For veterans Ian Poulter and Paul Casey, the appeal lies in the historic venue. Poulter, a former winner at Fanling, spoke of the course’s technical demands: "It is not a course for the 'bombers'. It is about positional play and strategy."
Paul Casey highlighted the energy of the local galleries: "Hong Kong is a city you come back to in a heartbeat for the vibe. That energy translates to the course. We feed off it."
As the tournament gets underway, the focus remains on whether this blend of tradition and innovation can capture a new generation of fans. As Scott O’Neil concluded: "Our eyes are on the flag every second."
