The San Francisco 49ers has increased its ownership stake in Premier League club Leeds United to 37%.
Paraag Marathe, President of 49ers Enterprises, the investment arm of the National Football League (NFL) franchise, is already a member of the top flight club’s board and will become Leeds’ new Vice-President through the investment.
Marathe’s new role will see the businessman become ‘more involved in the decision-making process and day-to-day operations’ of the club, according to a statement released by the Whites.
“Our 49ers Enterprises team has always shared Andrea’s vision for constructing a powerful and winning club in the most competitive football league in the world, and the experience of the last three seasons has been more exhilarating than we could have ever imagined,” Marathe said.
“The hard work and bold leadership demonstrated by Andrea and his talented team has restored Leeds United’s rightful place in the Premier League and we look forward to playing an even bigger role in supporting their efforts to climb the table this year and into the future.”
49ers Enterprises formed a strategic partnership with Leeds in 2018, acquiring a 15% stake in the club for around £10 million, which has now increased by 22%. Leeds’ Chairman and owner of Aser Ventures holding company, Andrea Radrizzani, will remain controlling owner of the club.
Radrizzani explained: “We are delighted to welcome further investment into our club from 49ers Enterprises and I am confident that this latest partnership will help Leeds United continue to grow and develop into the team our supporters deserve.
“I have always been open to bringing partners on this journey with me, as long as these actions can benefit the long-term strategy of the club. Paraag and the team at 49ers Enterprises are uniquely positioned to collaborate with myself, Angus Kinnear, Victor Orta and our management team to help us achieve our goals.”
