Liverpool FC Agrees to Sell Minority Stake to Consortium Backed by Jeff Bezos

Liverpool's new head coach Andoni Iraola and players applaud fans after a preseason friendly [File: AFP]

Fenway Sports Group has announced that a consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has reached a definitive agreement to acquire a minority stake in the Premier League club Liverpool FC.

Named 1892 Holdings, the consortium is led by former Queens Park Rangers chairman Amit Bhatia and features the Mittal Family Trusts, EE Capital, and the K5 Sports fund, with Bezos serving as the lead investor.

“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,” stated FSG president Mike Gordon on Friday. “Their experience and perspective will complement the strong foundation already in place and we look forward to working together.”

According to a source familiar with the matter who spoke with the Reuters news agency, the acquired stake is approximately one-third. Meanwhile, FSG—the US multinational sports company that purchased Liverpool back in 2010—will retain both the majority share and operational control of the club.

Bhatia is set to become the club's new vice chairman, joining an expanded board alongside Elaine Saverin from EE Capital and Bryan Baum from K5 Sports. Reuters reported that Bezos will not hold a seat on the board.

“To be welcomed as a partner in a club of this stature is a huge privilege,” Bhatia expressed. “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.”

Having been English champions a joint-record 20 times, Liverpool finished in fifth place in the Premier League during the previous season.

The team is scheduled to kick off their new campaign away at Newcastle United on August 23 under the guidance of new manager Andoni Iraola.