Liverpool announced in a statement this afternoon that the Amazon founder had bought into the club
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has bought a stake in Liverpool FC in a sensational deal for the Premier League.
The megarich American, who has en estimated net worth of £192billion, is part of a consortium that has bought into the Anfield club after weeks of rumours.
The investor group, called 1892 Holdings, is led by former QPR owner Amit Bhatia and also includes Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin.
Bezos’s group’s deal is said to be for a 30% stake in the club and worth £1.65billion. Bhatia is set to become a new vice-chair on the club’s board.
Fenway Sports Group (FSG) is set to remain in operational control of Liverpool as well as majority owners.
A statement on the Reds’ official website read: “Fenway Sports Group (FSG), a global sports, media, entertainment, and real estate company, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of a minority equity stake in Liverpool F.C. to 1892 Holdings, a consortium led and managed by Amit Bhatia, with investments from Amit Bhatia and the Mittal Family Trusts, K5 Sports (a K5 Global Fund), with Jeff Bezos as the lead investor in the K5 Sports fund, and EE Capital, the family office of Elaine and Eduardo Saverin.
“The strategic investment supports Liverpool F.C.’s long-term growth ambitions by bringing together experts from across global business, technology, and investment.
“The consortium partners will work with FSG and the club’s leadership team to evaluate opportunities that enhance the club’s objectives on and off the pitch. FSG continues to retain majority ownership and operational control of Liverpool F.C.”
Bezos has many business interests outside of Amazon including the media, with his ownership of the Washington Post.
Mike Gordon, FSG President, said: “Liverpool has always been built by thinking beyond one season and making decisions with the club’s long-term interests in mind.
“That approach continues to attract interest from respected investors and business leaders around the world. As we considered this opportunity, it became clear that Amit and the consortium shared our long-term philosophy and appreciation for what makes Liverpool special.
“Their experience and perspective will complement the strong foundation already in place, and we look forward to working together.”
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