Jeff Bezos and Amit Bhatia consortium acquires minority stake in Liverpool FC
Fenway Sports Group (FSG) has agreed to sell a minority stake in Liverpool FC to a consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. The investment from 1892 Holdings is understood to be worth approximately £1.65bn, valuing the Premier League club at about £5.5bn.
1892 Holdings is led and managed by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of steel billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, 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.
Bezos is one of the world’s richest men with an estimated fortune of £192bn, according to the Forbes magazine, while Brazilian businessman Saverin was one of the co-founders of the social network Facebook.
The consortium's investment is designed to support Liverpool FC’s long-term growth ambitions by bringing together experts from across global business, technology and investment.
FSG continues to retain majority ownership and operational control of Liverpool FC.
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."
Amit Bhatia, on behalf of 1892 Holdings, added: "We are incredibly proud to be investing in Liverpool Football Club and to be doing so alongside FSG. We have the utmost respect and admiration for FSG as owners and for everything they have achieved at Anfield.
"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."
Corestone Capital Advisors introduced the parties and facilitated their engagement in connection with the transaction.
Allen Overy Shearman Sterling served as legal advisor to FSG and the club, with support services provided by Deloitte.
Latham & Watkins served as legal advisor to 1892 Holdings, with PwC and Moelis & Company providing support and advisory services.
Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton served as legal advisors to the K5 Sports fund and its lead investor. Clifford Chance LLP served as legal advisors to EE Capital.
The deal is subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions