A new era for South Africa’s LIV Golf team as Southern Guards GC is unveiled
From left to right: Branden Grace, Louis Oosthuizen, Dean Burmester and Charl Schwartzel pose in Southern Guards GC’s new kit following the team’s rebrand.
Image: Supplied
South Africa’s LIV Golf team has entered a new era after Southern Guards GC officially unveiled its new identity ahead of the league’s first-ever event on African soil.
Formerly known as Stinger Golf Club, the team confirmed the rebrand on Tuesday, marking a significant moment in its evolution just months before LIV Golf stages a tournament in South Africa for the first time. LIV Golf South Africa is scheduled to take place at Steyn City in Johannesburg from 19 to 22 March 2026, with more than 70,000 tickets already sold.
The new Southern Guards GC identity places a strong emphasis on South African culture, unity and resilience. Inspired by the philosophy of Ubuntu – “I am because we are” – the rebrand reflects a collective identity rooted in shared purpose and national pride.
Central to the refreshed branding is the rhino, a symbol deeply associated with strength and resolve in South African culture. The design incorporates local textures and patterns, representing both competitive toughness and a commitment to legacy as the team competes on the global stage.
Southern Guards GC general manager Richard Glover said the decision to rebrand had been carefully considered, but felt timely given LIV Golf’s upcoming arrival in the country.
“This has been an emotional and considered decision, but we felt the time was right to embrace a name and visual identity that more authentically reflects who we are and where we come from,” Glover said. “Southern Guards GC reflects the responsibility we carry in representing South Africa on a global stage.”
The team will continue into the 2026 season with an unchanged, all-South African lineup featuring Louis Oosthuizen, Branden Grace, Dean Burmester and Charl Schwartzel. The quartet, among the country’s most accomplished golfers, will compete under the new banner during what is expected to be a landmark season.
Now in its fourth year, LIV Golf continues to expand its global footprint, with events staged across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, North America and Africa. The league’s South African debut is seen as a major milestone, both for the tour and for the country’s representation at the highest level of international golf.
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