Jeff Bezos makes his move into football with official Liverpool investment
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Jeff Bezos has officially entered the football world after Liverpool confirmed that the Amazon founder and chairman has bought an investment stake in the club. The deal brings one of the world’s most prominent businessmen into the Anfield picture.Bezos joins Ehsen Bhatia, the former Queens Park Rangers chief executive, as part of the ‘1892 Investment Holdings’ consortium.
British-Indian billionaire Bhatia is also set to become Liverpool’s vice-chairman, according to the reports.The consortium also includes Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin, adding further billionaire backing to the investment group.Photo by Michael Regan/Getty ImagesJeff Bezos joins Liverpool investment group alongside billionaire backersLiverpool confirmed the investment on Friday, with the club stressing that Fenway Sports Group will retain majority ownership and operational control.The club said the investment aims to support its ‘long-term growth ambitions’ by bringing together expertise across finance, business, technology and investment.The consortium will work alongside FSG and Liverpool’s executive management to assess opportunities that could help the club both on and off the pitch.FSG president Mike Gordon welcomed the deal, pointing to Liverpool’s ability to attract major investors and business leaders from around the world.‘Liverpool has always been built on thinking beyond a single season,’ Gordon said. He added thatBhatia and the consortium ‘share the same philosophy’ as FSG.For Bezos, the move represents a significant step into football.The Amazon founder joins a group that already has major business and technology experience, while Liverpool remain firmly under FSG’s control.Bhatia also expressed his pride at becoming involved with the Premier League club.‘We are extremely proud to be investing in Liverpool alongside Fenway Sports Group,’ he said. ‘We hold the utmost respect and appreciation for what they have achieved at Anfield.’The investment does not change Liverpool’s ownership structure, with FSG retaining majority ownership and day-to-day management.Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty ImagesInstead, the consortium will have an opportunity to work with the club on its future ambitions.That could make Bezos’ arrival one of the more notable developments around Liverpool away from the pitch, particularly given the scale of his business background.For now, though, Liverpool’s focus remains on the new season.
The club are due to face Como in a friendly on Sunday, while Bezos and his fellow investors begin their involvement with one of football’s biggest clubs.Join Our NewsletterReceive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox