Jeff Bezos-backed consortium buys stake in Liverpool

A consortium led by former Queens Park Rangers chairman Amit Bhatia, including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has agreed to purchase a minority stake in Liverpool Football Club, valuing the Premier League team at over £5 billion ($7 billion), according to the club's owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG). The stake is believed to be around one third of the club, worth more than £1.5 billion. FSG, which acquired Liverpool for £300 million in 2010, will maintain majority ownership and operational control.

Bhatia, who is the son-in-law of Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, will become Liverpool's vice chairman and join the club's expanded board alongside Elaine Saverin of EE Capital, Eduardo Saverin's wife, and Bryan Baum of K5 Sports. Bezos, the lead investor, will not have a board seat.

FSG president Mike Gordon stated that the consortium's shared long-term philosophy and appreciation for what makes Liverpool special led to the decision to pursue the investment. Bhatia expressed his privilege at being welcomed as a partner in a club of this stature.

The investment marks a significant increase in Liverpool's valuation since FSG's takeover 16 years ago, while keeping American ownership firmly in control of the club's day-to-day operations. The agreement includes an option for the consortium to increase its investment in the future, positioning them to become majority shareholders if Fenway Sports Group decides to sell.

Liverpool, one of the most successful clubs in English football with 20 Premier League titles, finished fifth in the league last season and will commence their new campaign away to Newcastle United on August 23.