5 Takeaways from Fireballs GC roster moves

Sergio Garcia has been extended to a multi-year deal as captain of Fireballs GC and Luis Masaveu has returned to the team, replacing Abraham Ancer. Here are five key takeaways for the Fireballs’ finalization of their roster heading into the 2026 season.

1. A reliable and consistent captain 

While much of the external focus often falls more on fellow major winners such as Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka and Jon Rahm, Garcia has quietly established himself as one of most consistent original members of the league. Since LIV Golf's inception, Garcia has performed at a high level, finishing the first four seasons with final rankings of 9th, 17th, 3rd and 9th. His high floor has ensured the Fireballs are competitive each and evert season. By securing his leadership through 2026 and beyond, the team retains a captain who is not only a legendary figure in the sport but a strong leader who’s fully invested in the team’s success.

2. The Fireballs’ youth movement 

The 2026 Fireballs roster represents the boldest commitment to youth in the league’s history, making them the only team currently featuring three players aged 24 or younger. With Josele Ballester (22), Luis Masaveu (23), and David Puig (24) rounding out the squad, Garcia has created a high upside "youth academy" dynamic that is unique to his captaincy. While other teams such as Legion XIII have integrated young stars, the Fireballs are the only team to dedicate 75% of their roster to extremely young talent. This setup positions Garcia as a mentor to the future of both the Fireballs and Spanish golf.

3. LIV Golf’s first true Spanish roster 

With the addition of Masaveu and the departure of Ancer, the Fireballs have officially become the first team in LIV Golf history to be composed entirely of four Spanish players. This transition creates a singular cultural identity that creates a "National Team" feel similar to the Australian Ripper GC and South African Stinger GC. For the league, this is a major branding milestone that allows the Fireballs to command total loyalty from the Spanish market. By moving to a fully unified national identity, they’ve created a clear, recognizable brand for fans across the globe. 

4. Masaveu's first stint with the team was successful 

While the loss of Ancer will be felt, Masaveu, who spent the first eight events with the Fireballs in 2025, has already proven he can be a reliable member of the squad. During his time in the lineup last season, the Fireballs captured three straight team titles in Adelaide, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Masaveu proved he was far more than a placeholder, notably draining a high-pressure birdie on his final hole in Hong Kong to clinch a one-shot team victory and a avoid a playoff with Stinger GC. During the three-win stretch, Masaveu’s best finish was a T14 in Singapore.

5. Fireballs will have a true 'home game' at Valderrama 

The decision to finalize an all-Spanish roster creates a strategic advantage for one of the league’s signature events, LIV Golf Andalucía. Just like the Rippers at LIV Golf Adelaide from Feb. 12-15, Fireballs GC will enjoy huge support in front of their national fans. The Stingers expect the same when LIV Golf makes its debut in South Africa from Mar. 19-22.