Jeff Bezos Joins Liverpool Ownership Group with Option for Future Control

A consortium led by U.S. billionaire Jeff Bezos has acquired a minority stake in Liverpool Football Club. The agreement, made with current owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG), includes an option for the consortium to purchase a controlling stake within the next year.

FSG confirmed on Friday that the consortium, which includes Bezos, purchased approximately 30% to one-third of the Premier League club. This marks Bezos’ initial foray into sports franchise ownership. The investment is through 1892 Holdings, managed by Amit Bhatia, and utilizes the K5 Sports fund.

Sources involved in the deal confirmed that the option for acquiring a controlling stake exists, though it is not a firm commitment. It provides a potential path to further investment rather than a fixed guarantee. The consortium also includes the family office of Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin, his wife Elaine, and the Mittal Family Trusts.

Amit Bhatia, who was a co-owner of Queens Park Rangers, will serve as vice chairman at Liverpool. Elaine Saverin and Bryan Baum, from K5 Sports, will join the club’s board, but Bezos will not hold a board seat.

FSG retains majority ownership and operational control of Liverpool, and there will be no immediate changes to the club’s leadership or daily operations. The deal aims to bolster Liverpool FC’s growth by combining expertise from global business, technology, and investment sectors.

FSG stated that the strategic investment supports Liverpool’s long-term growth aspirations. The consortium will collaborate with FSG and the club’s leadership to identify opportunities that align with the club’s objectives both on and off the pitch.

Bhatia, representing 1892 Holdings, expressed pride in investing in Liverpool. He praised FSG’s achievements at Anfield and expressed eagerness to support the club’s ongoing success.