Everton FC has been acquired by The Friedkin Group subsidiary Roundhouse Capital Holdings.
The deal, believed to be worth around £400m, means the end to the ownership by Farhad Moshiri’s Blue Heaven Holdings (BHH).
Friedkin is the owner and president of Serie A club Roma and has an estimated net worth of more than $6bn. He is also the co-founder of 30WEST, which provides capital and guidance to creative companies and has a majority ownership in Neon, which distributed Parasite.
While the move had been agreed back in September, they were waiting on regulatory approvals from the Premier League, Women’s Professional Leagues Limited, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.
“Today marks a momentous and proud occasion for The Friedkin Group as we become custodians of this iconic football club,” said Marc Watts, incoming Executive Chairman of Everton Football Club.
“We are committed to leading Everton into an exciting new era both on and off the pitch. Providing immediate financial stability to the Club has been a key priority, and we are delighted to have achieved this. While restoring Everton to its rightful place in the Premier League table will take time, today is the first step in that journey.”
Farhad Moshiri, the outgoing majority shareholder, stated:
“I truly believe that the transaction with The Friedkin Group is the best outcome for the Club and its future success. There has been a huge team effort in getting to this stage and I would like to personally thank my Board colleagues John Spellman and Colin Chong and all the senior management team including Katie, James, Richard and of course Kevin and Sean for their huge commitment to the Club. Despite a challenging geopolitical backdrop, a significant amount has been achieved over the last couple of years including the delivery of a new sporting department, the stabilisation of our finances and the delivery of our iconic new stadium. I now hand over to new owners confident in the outlook for the Club and that our incredible fans will see the success on the pitch that they so thoroughly deserve.”
Dan Friedkin, Chairman and CEO of TFG is proposed to be Chairman of the Board. He has appointed Marc Watts to serve as Executive Chairman, who will be responsible in this role for the management of the club. Ana Dunkel, TFG’s Chief Financial Officer and Colin Chong, the Club’s interim CEO will also serve on the Board. A
In an open letter to supporters, Friedkin, outlined his priorities, which include:
“Strengthening the men’s first-team squad through thoughtful and strategic investment.
Cultivating home-grown superstars through Everton’s Academy.
Fostering a distinct on-pitch and commercial strategy for the women’s team.
Respecting the Club’s traditions and keeping Everton at the heart of the community.
Maximising the potential of the new stadium through long-term commercial partnerships and events that benefit the city of Liverpool.
Enhancing Everton’s reputation as a unique and historical name in world football.”