Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter pay DP World Tour fines – so why are they still banned from the Ryder Cup?

Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter have paid their DP World Tour fines, believed to be just over $1 million combined, reversing their previous refusals to settle the dispute stemming from their participation in LIV Golf. The payment, confirmed by a DP World Tour spokesman, allows both players to apply to rejoin the circuit in November following the conclusion of the 2026 season in Dubai. However, they will still be required to serve their suspensions, meaning a Ryder Cup return remains off the table despite the settlement.