Everton on Thursday confirmed new majority ownership as Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited, a body within the Friedkin Group, has completed its takeover of the club, Afrosport reports.
The American group has reportedly purchased a 99.5% stake in the Premier League club in a deal believed to be worth more than £400 million, ending the tumultuous reign of British-Iranian businessman Farhad Moshiri.
The Friedkin Group had initially reached an agreement with Moshiri on 23 September but was awaiting the needed regulatory approvals, which have now been granted by the Premier League, Women’s Professional Leagues Limited, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.
Club Statement: Everton Football Club acquired by Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited, part of The Friedkin Group. 🔵
— Everton (@Everton) December 19, 2024
The Toffees becomes the 10th club in the English top division to be under majority control by Americans, and the group, led by chairman Dan Friedkin, who according to Forbes has a net worth of £6.16 billion, also owns Italian Serie A club Roma.
Friedkin is expected to lead Everton’s board as chairman, while Marc Watts, the president of the group, will serve as executive chairman and is expected to oversee the management of the club.
“Today marks a momentous and proud occasion for The Friedkin Group as we become custodians of this iconic football club,” said Watts, the Executive Chairman of Everton. “We are committed to leading Everton into an exciting new era both on and off the pitch.
“Providing immediate financial stability to the Club has been a key priority, and we are delighted to have achieved this.
“While restoring Everton to its rightful place in the Premier League table will take time, today is the first step in that journey.”
Friedkin, however, penned a message to Everton fans in an open letter. He wrote: “I take immense pride in welcoming one of England’s most historic football clubs to our global family, the Friedkin Group. Everton represents a proud legacy, and we are honoured to become custodians of this great institution.
“Whilst we are new to the club, we fully understand the vital role Everton plays in local culture, history, and the lives of Evertonians here and around the world.
“We are deeply committed to honouring this legacy while contributing positively to the community, economy, and people of this remarkable city.”
Moshiri previously purchased a 49.9% stake in Everton in 2016 but increased his holding in the club to 94.1% six years later.
The Toffees did not enjoy the best of times under Moshiri, having finished in the bottom half for the last three seasons in the Premier League, where they have ended 16th, 17th, and 15th.
Everton currently sits 16th in the league standings, and their first game under new ownership will be at home to second-placed Chelsea at Goodison Park on Sunday.
