HENRIK STENSON has been STRIPPED from the European Ryder Cup captaincy in preparation of his imminent signing with LIV.

According to reports, the Swede is close to signing up for the Saudi-backed breakaway series of golf.

Recently, the 46-year old held talks with Ryder Cup officials informing them of his intentions to join the controversial league.

They led to him being fired from his position as Europe's skipper.

A Ryder Cup Europe statement stated: "Ryder Cup Europe today confirms Henrik Stenson has been removed as Captain of Team Europe at the 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club, Rome, Italy, from September 25th to October 1st 2023."

"Henrik has made decisions in regard to his personal circumstances and it has become obvious that he is unable to fulfill certain contractual obligations to Ryder Cup Europe which he had previously committed to before his announcement as captain on Tuesday, March 15, 2022. It is therefore impossible for him to continue the captain's role.

"Confirmation will be made as to the 2023 European Ryder Cup Captain in due course. Ryder Cup Europe will not comment further on any aspect until then.

This move leaves Europe without a skipper ahead of next year’s event in Italy.

Others potential captains like Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood have already signed up for LIV Golf. Sergio Garcia is out of the picture.

Thomas Bjorn (ex-captain) is a contender to lead the European team. He led Europe to victory in Paris for the Ryder Cup in 2018. Luke Donald was also a leading candidate, before Stenson was chosen.

Stenson's tenure as Ryder Cup chief ends THREE MOTHS after replacing Padraig Harrington.

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