Jeff Bezos Joins Ownership Group of Liverpool Soccer Club
Amazon founder is the lead investor in a consortium that has acquired a minority stake in the Premier League team.
A consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has finalized an agreement to purchase a minority stake in Liverpool, the English Premier League club's owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), announced Friday. The deal values the storied club at more than $7 billion.
A source familiar with the transaction indicated that the stake acquired is approximately one-third. Reports from British media suggest the deal is worth over 1.5 billion pounds.
FSG, which initially bought Liverpool in 2010, will retain majority ownership and operational control of the team. The newly formed consortium, operating as 1892 Holdings, is spearheaded by former Queens Park Rangers chairman Amit Bhatia. It also includes the Mittal Family Trusts, EE Capital, and the K5 Sports fund, with Bezos serving as the lead investor in K5 Sports.
Mike Gordon, president of FSG, stated that the new partners share a long-term philosophy and a deep appreciation for what makes Liverpool a unique club. He added that their experience and perspective will complement the existing strong foundation, and FSG looks forward to a collaborative relationship.
Bhatia will assume the role of the club's new vice chairman. Elaine Saverin of EE Capital and Bryan Baum of K5 Sports will also join an expanded board. According to the source, Bezos will not hold a seat on the board.
Bhatia expressed his privilege in becoming a partner with a club of Liverpool's caliber. "We are making this investment because we believe deeply in Liverpool and its leadership, and we look forward to supporting the club's continued success for years to come," he said.
Liverpool, who have won the English league championship a record-tying 20 times, finished fifth in the Premier League last season. The team is scheduled to begin its new campaign against Newcastle United on August 23.