Exclusive: Leeds United are the ‘one to watch’ after new 49ers reveal – CEO
Leeds United are the team to watch outside of the Premier League as they look to tap into opportunities in the US market, sources have told Football Insider.
The CLV Group CEO Neil Joyce exclusively revealed to Football Insider the celebrity element of the Championship club’s ownership group could help them attract new supporters.
The investment arm of the San Fransisco 49ers purchased a 15 per cent stake in the Yorkshire giants in 2018 before increasing their share to 44 per cent in 2021.
The group then completed its £170million takeover in July last year, bringing former owner Andrea Radrizzani’s six-year reign at Elland Road to an end.
The takeover has also seen some major figures invest in Leeds, with actors Will Ferrell and Russell Crowe as well American golfing stars Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth all making up part of 49ers Enterprises.
Joyce told Football Insider Thomas and Spieth, who are both former world number ones, open the Yorkshire club up to another sporting vertical to tap into.
He believes Ferrell’s influence can also help raise Leeds’ profile and presents an opportunity to explore creative connections with new fans in the US.
The 57-year-old was spotted in the stands at Elland Road for the 1-0 defeat against Burnley earlier this month.
Leeds United need promotion to unlock US opportunities
The 49ers ownership hands Leeds a chance to capitalise on monetary opportunities in the US market.
The CLV Group estimates there to be up to £860million on offer to European clubs in additional revenue ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the US, Canada and Mexico.
There are also believed to be 36.5 million football fans across America who are undecided about which European team they want to support.
But Joyce told Football Insider Leeds need to be competing in the Premier League to unlock the full potential of opportunities in the US.
Daniel Farke’s side missed out on promotion last season following their play-off final defeat against Southampton and currently sit sixth in the Championship table.
In other news, Leeds fans wowed as Junior Firpo stats revealed.
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