NFL’S 49ers increase Leeds stake

NFL franchise San Francisco 49ers have increased their stake in Leeds United after months of negotiations.

The Daily Telegraph revealed the American group’s plans to increase their stake in October last year, with their share of the club increasing from 15 to 37 per cent.

Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani has been looking for fresh investment since the club were promoted to the Premier League last summer and preferred to work with those with whom he already has an excellent relationship. Paraag Marathe, 49ers Enterprises president and Leeds board member, will become the Leeds vice-chairman.

Marathe – supported by 49ers Enterprises vice-president Collin Meador and other key 49ers personnel – will be more involved in the decision-making process and day-to-day running of the club, in football and business operations, as he has done for the 49ers over the past 20 years.

Radrizzani said: “I have always been open to bringing partners on this journey with me, as long as these actions can benefit the longterm strategy of the club.”

The announcement builds on a strategic partnership and equity stake initiated in 2018, when 49ers Enterprises purchased 15 per cent of the club from Radrizzani, who remains the majority stakeholder.

“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,” Marathe said.