In a significant move, US-based private equity firm Bright Path Sports Partners has acquired a 40% stake in Championship club Ipswich Town as part of a substantial £105m investment.
The investment injection, announced by Ipswich Town, will be directed towards various infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of the training ground at Playford Road. This development underscores the growing trend of American firms investing in English football clubs, with notable examples including Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who own Wrexham FC.
This substantial investment marks a pivotal moment for Ipswich Town, who are fervently aiming to secure promotion to the Premier League for the first time since 2002. Under the leadership of manager Kieran McKenna, Ipswich has been playing an attractive brand of football, drawing optimism from fans and pundits alike. With the financial backing from Bright Path Sports Partners, the club aims to strengthen its position both on and off the field.
Notably, ORG retains its majority and controlling stake in Ipswich Town, holding a 50% ownership, with the remaining 10% owned by smaller investors such as the Three Lions Fund.
Commenting on the investment, lead investor Sam Simon expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited to be making this investment in a brilliant football club. We love the history, the potential for the future, the passionate fans, and the management of the Club, who are amazing people. We invest in people, and this is perfect for us. We believe in investing for the future in order to give the team and management the tools to do their jobs, and we’re excited to be working together.”
Looking ahead, Ipswich Town, currently sitting third in the Championship table after securing automatic promotion from League One last season, will resume their campaign with an away fixture against Blackburn Rovers on Friday, March 29th, followed by a home clash against fourth-placed Southampton on Easter Monday.