Leeds United Takeover: Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, both American golfers, have acquired stakes in the 49ers group, which is currently in the process of acquiring ownership of Leeds United, an English soccer club.
The 49ers Enterprises, the investment division of the San Francisco 49ers NFL team, has been a shareholder in Leeds since making its first investment in May 2018.
Last month, the owner of Leeds, Andrea Radrizzani, came to an agreement to sell his ownership in the club to 49ers Enterprises.
“Relegation wasn’t ideal, but we got involved with the 49ers group about purchasing a larger share and getting in with them doing things so successfully as they do everywhere they’ve touched,” three-times major winner Spieth told Sky Sports.
“We thought it would be a cool opportunity. It’s a big city, historic club, great venue in Elland Road, and once we looked into it we realised it could be really exciting.
“They (the 49ers) renegotiated after relegation and it was possibly a better deal – as long as they can get promoted (to Premier League) soon.”
Leeds United experienced demotion to the Championship, the second-tier league, after the 2022-23 season. This resulted in Rickie Fowler withdrawing, according to Spieth.
“It’s done. Myself and Justin with a minority stake. The 49ers beat my (Dallas) Cowboys every year, so if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em,” Spieth said when asked about the deal, which will undergo checks by the English Football League.
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