Leeds United, one of the prominent English Premier League teams, faced a disappointing end to the 2022-23 season, resulting in their relegation back to the English Championship League. Amidst this setback, some notable American personalities have made their mark in the ownership landscape of European soccer teams. While professional golfer Rickie Fowler withdrew his minority investment in Leeds United, his fellow golfers and friends, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, will continue as minority owners despite the club’s demotion.
Speaking to Sky Sports before the Genesis Scottish Open, Spieth shared the news that Fowler had decided to step away from his involvement with Leeds United. However, Spieth and Thomas remain committed to the club even in the face of relegation. Reflecting on their decision, Spieth expressed optimism about the future, stating, “Relegation wasn’t ideal, but we got involved with the 49ers group about purchasing a larger share and getting in with them. [They have] done things so successfully as they do everywhere they’ve touched. We thought it would be a cool opportunity.”
Under the ownership of the San Francisco 49ers, represented by the York Family, Leeds United is set to embark on a new phase. The 49ers ownership group, having made an initial minority investment in 2018, recently acquired the remaining controlling interest in the club for a reported £170 million or $213 million. This move signifies a vote of confidence in the future prospects of the club, despite its current league standing.
The involvement of American investors in European soccer is not limited to Leeds United. Others, such as Stan Kroenke, the owner of the Los Angeles Rams, Denver Nuggets, and Colorado Avalanche, holds the ownership and co-chairmanship of Arsenal F.C. Meanwhile, the Glazer family, owners of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, also operate Manchester United, a globally recognized football club. Even actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have made their entry into the world of soccer by purchasing Wrexham A.F.C., the oldest club in Wales.
As the York Family, Spieth, and Thomas assume ownership responsibilities, they join a distinguished group of American investors who recognize the global potential of European soccer. While Fowler’s withdrawal may raise questions, the future awaits with the potential of Leeds United making a triumphant return to the Premier League in 2024. Only time will tell if the decision to stay invested in the club proves fruitful for these American golf superstars.
Despite the recent relegation, Leeds United’s ownership transition has captured attention due to the involvement of prominent American figures in the soccer world. Exciting times lie ahead for Leeds United, the York Family, and the steadfast commitment of golf icons Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas. As soccer continues to attract global investment, it will be intriguing to witness the soccer-business synergy that unfolds in the upcoming seasons.
The post “American Golfer Rickie Fowler Pulls Out Investment from Leeds United as Club Ownership Transitions Amid Relegation” first appeared on the European News Global.
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