Funded group Mercury13 enters English football scene, acquires Bristol City to extend financial reach
Investment Fund Takes Control of Bristol City Women
In a significant move for women's football in England, Mercury13, an investment fund backed by Juan Mata and Giorgio Chiellini, has acquired a majority stake in Bristol City Women. The deal, subject to league approval, will see Stephen Lansdown, the current owner of Bristol City Women, relinquish control of the club but maintain ownership of the men's side and the two adjacent Bristol Bears rugby teams.
The acquisition comes at a time when the growth in women's football is acknowledged as outstanding by Lansdown. He stated that they would look at investment if it was the right partner at the right time, and he believes now is the right time for City Women.
Mario Malave of Mercury13 expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating that Bristol City Women represents a rich history, a track record of performance, world-class infrastructure, and incredibly loyal supporters.
The investment fund already has FC Como Women in its portfolio, which is considered its crown jewel. With the addition of Bristol City Women, Mercury13 is further strengthening its position in women's football.
Bristol City Women currently sit eighth in the FA WSL 2 after two games. The top two teams in the second division will be promoted automatically, providing an exciting prospect for the future under the new ownership. The third-place team will play a relegation play-off against the bottom WSL club, currently Michele Kang's London City.
The deal does not affect the ownership of the men's side of Bristol City. The two adjacent Bristol Bears rugby teams are still owned by Lansdown, who is associated with Hargreaves Lansdown.
A revamped Women's Super League is scheduled for the next season, with the English top flight (WSL) expanding to 14 teams for the 2026-27 season. This expansion is a testament to the growing interest and investment in women's football.
In a positive move for the club, Bristol City Women will continue to play at Ashton Gate after a new long-term agreement was reached. The investment firm Mercury13 was advised by Legal & General on the takeover, and the deal was further advised by Northridge Law LLP and Deloitte.
This acquisition is a significant step forward for women's football in England and is expected to bring about exciting changes for Bristol City Women. With the support of Mercury13, the club is poised to make a strong impact in the Women's Super League.
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