Jeff Bezos and Eduardo Saverin Near Deal for Minority Stake in Liverpool FC

What Happened

Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owners of Liverpool Football Club since 2010, is reportedly nearing an agreement to sell a significant minority stake to a consortium led by businessman Amit Bhatia. The investor group includes Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin. Sources indicates that the deal involves roughly one-third of the club's equity, with an official announcement expected as early as this week.

Why It Matters

The transaction is expected to value Liverpool at approximately $6 billion (£4.4 billion), a massive increase from the £300 million FSG paid for the club in 2010. The involvement of Bezos, whose fortune is estimated at $280 billion, and Saverin, worth over $30 billion, would install some of the world's wealthiest individuals as co-owners of the Premier League side. This move follows a previous fractional stake sale to Dynasty Equity in 2023 and suggests a potential long-term succession plan for FSG's leadership.

Background

FSG acquired Liverpool 16 years ago during a period of financial instability under previous owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett. Under FSG's stewardship, the club has won two Premier League titles and the Champions League. Amit Bhatia, who leads the new bidding consortium, is the son-in-law of steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal and brings prior football experience from an 18-season tenure as a shareholder and director at Queens Park Rangers.

Key Facts

• The consortium is led by Amit Bhatia and includes Jeff Bezos and Eduardo Saverin.
• The deal involves a minority stake of approximately 30% to 33%.
• The investment values Liverpool FC at an estimated $6 billion (£4.4 billion).
• FSG purchased the club in October 2010 for £300 million.
• Eduardo Saverin previously participated in a bid for Chelsea FC in 2022.

What Happens Next

An official announcement regarding the strategic investment is anticipated shortly, though sources caution the timeline could extend into next week. While FSG is not currently seeking a full exit, the arrival of such a well-capitalized consortium has led to speculation regarding an eventual transition to outright control by the new investors.