Jeff Bezos has entered sports ownership for the first time after joining a consortium that has bought about a 40% stake in Liverpool Football Club. The consortium, called 1892 Holdings, is led by former Queens Park Rangers co-owner Amit Bhatia and also includes Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin’s family office, and the Mittal Family Trusts. The deal gives the group a significant minority stake in the Premier League club, while Fenway Sports Group (FSG) will remain Liverpool’s majority owner and retain operational control. The agreement also includes an option that could allow the consortium to buy a controlling stake in Liverpool within the next 12 months.
Jeff Bezos enters sports ownership with Liverpool deal
Jeff Bezos’ investment in Liverpool comes through K5 Sports and marks his first move into sports ownership. However, Bezos will not have a seat on Liverpool’s board. Bryan Baum from K5 Sports and Elaine Saverin will join Amit Bhatia on the board, according to the details of the deal. Bhatia will also serve as vice-chairman of Liverpool after the investment.The consortium’s stake is larger than earlier estimates. Initial reports had suggested that the group had bought between about 30% and one-third of the club. The stake is now understood to be closer to 40%, at around 38%, according to people familiar with the deal.
FSG remains in control
Despite the investment, FSG will continue to be Liverpool’s majority shareholder and will retain control over the club’s operations. FSG said the investment is intended to support Liverpool’s long-term growth.“The strategic investment supports Liverpool FC’s long-term growth ambitions by bringing together experts from across global business, technology and investment,” FSG said in a statement. The company added that the new consortium partners will work with FSG and Liverpool’s leadership team to explore opportunities for the club both on and off the pitch.“FSG continues to retain majority ownership and operational control of Liverpool FC,” the company said.The agreement also gives 1892 Holdings a mechanism to potentially buy a controlling stake in Liverpool over the next 12 months. However, the option is not a formal commitment to make the purchase. It gives the consortium the opportunity to increase its ownership if the terms of the agreement are met.Bhatia said the group was proud to invest in Liverpool alongside FSG.“We are incredibly proud to be investing in Liverpool Football Club and to be doing so alongside FSG,” he said. “To be welcomed as a partner in a club of this stature is a huge privilege. 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.”
