Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owner of Liverpool FC, has announced a definitive agreement to sell a minority stake to a consortium named 1892 Holdings. Led by former Queens Park Rangers chairman Amit Bhatia, the consortium also includes K5 Sports, a fund in which Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, is a key investor.
In addition to K5 Sports, 1892 Holdings includes the Mittal Family Trusts and EE Capital. According to a source familiar with the matter, the stake being acquired is approximately one-third. FSG, the U.S. multinational that bought Liverpool in 2010, will retain majority ownership and operational control of the club.
“As we considered this opportunity, it was clear that Amit and his group share the long-term philosophy and appreciation for what makes Liverpool special,” FSG president Mike Gordon said in a statement on Friday. “Their experience and perspective will complement the strong foundation already in place, and we look forward to working together.”
In his new role, Amit Bhatia will become vice-chairman of the club and join an expanded board of directors, alongside Elaine Saverin from EE Capital and Bryan Baum from K5 Sports. According to Reuters, Jeff Bezos will not hold a seat on the board.
“Being welcomed as a partner into a club of this stature is a tremendous privilege,” Bhatia said. “We are investing because we deeply believe in Liverpool and its leadership, and we look forward to supporting the club’s continued success in the years to come.”
Liverpool, a 20-time English champion, finished fifth in the Premier League last season. The team will begin its new campaign with an away match against Newcastle United on August 23 under new head coach Andoni Iraola.
