The DP World Tour is on a possible collision course with one of its tournament sponsors after suspensions handed to LIV rebels ruled Paul Casey and Martin Kaymer out of next month’s European Open in Hamburg.
Both former Ryder Cup players had entered the event; Casey is an ambassador for Porsche, the title sponsor, while the double major champion Kaymer remains one of Germany’s most high-profile sportsmen.
There are serious doubts over whether the German luxury car manufacturer will continue its backing of the tournament, which began in 2015.
Casey and Kaymer were among 26 golfers hit with sanctions, including tournament suspensions and fines ranging from £12,500 to £100,000, on Thursday after not being granted releases to play on the LIV circuit while members of the DP World Tour, formerly the European Tour.