Jeff Bezos is reportedly making moves to invest in U.K. soccer by acquiring a significant share in local teams.
Bezos, joined by notable figures such as Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin, is exploring the opportunity to secure at least a 30% stake in Liverpool FC, which is valued at approximately £1.35 billion (around $1.8 billion). If successful, this investment would mark his first venture into sports, although he had previously considered acquiring a stake in an American football team.
Liverpool is among Europe’s most illustrious soccer clubs, boasting a valuation of about $6 billion. It holds a level of brand recognition in the U.K. comparable to that of the Dallas Cowboys in the U.S.
With billionaires increasingly seen investing in mega yachts and sports franchises, Bezos’ interest aligns with current trends. The appeal of owning an English soccer team has been amplified by popular shows such as Ted Lasso and Ryan Reynolds’ Welcome to Wrexham, which highlights the ownership experience.
A growing number of American billionaires are diving into U.K. football. This includes Todd Boehly and Mark Walters, who own Chelsea, as well as Woody Johnson, a co-owner of the New York Jets, who has invested in Crystal Palace. Other notable stakeholders are Dan Friedkin in Everton and Bill Foley, who partnered with Michael B. Jordan to acquire Bournemouth.
The trend of celebrity involvement in U.K. sports teams is on the rise as well. Tom Brady holds a minor stake in Birmingham City, while Will Ferrell has invested in Leeds United, together with Russell Westbrook and Michael Phelps.
Earlier this year, a report highlighted the growing American influence in U.K. football, noting that 13 of the 20 Premier League clubs have American shareholders.
Soccer’s popularity is on the rise in the U.S., and many established sports franchises, such as those in the NFL and MLB, are either prohibitively expensive or not open to new buyers. Acquiring a stake in a Premier League team is becoming an accessible option.
Holding a share in such a team also offers access to some of the world’s most recognizable athletic icons. Over recent years, Bezos has transitioned into more of a cultural figure, especially following his marriage to former news anchor Lauren Sanchez, moving beyond just being a tech entrepreneur.
Given his current net worth, estimated at around $280 billion, it seems a fitting moment for Bezos to venture into the sports domain. Moreover, Amazon has previously streamed European soccer leagues, complementing Bezos’ expanding interests in the U.K. His new AI enterprise, Prometheus, is reportedly looking to establish its base in London’s AI hub at King’s Cross.
