Who Owns Salford FC?
Salford FC, a football club based in Greater Manchester, has gained significant attention over the years due to its rapid rise through the lower leagues and its high-profile ownership. This article delves into who owns Salford FC, providing an overview of the club’s current ownership structure and how it has evolved in recent years.
The Rise of Salford FC
Founded in 1940, Salford City Football Club spent much of its existence in the lower echelons of English football. However, the club has experienced a remarkable rise since being taken over by a group of prominent ex-footballers in 2014. Their involvement has led to a new era for the club, bringing in substantial financial backing, better facilities, and increased visibility in the footballing world.
The ‘Class of 92’
The majority of Salford FC is owned by a group of former Manchester United players, famously known as the ‘Class of 92’. This group includes:
- Gary Neville
- Phil Neville
- Ryan Giggs
- Paul Scholes
- Nicky Butt
These five players, all former teammates at Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson, acquired a 50% stake in Salford FC in 2014. Their goal was to transform the club into a competitive side with the ambition of reaching the English Football League (EFL), which they achieved in 2019.
Peter Lim: The Silent Partner
In 2014, Singaporean businessman Peter Lim acquired a 50% stake in Salford FC. Lim, a billionaire with vast investments in the football industry (including ownership of Spanish club Valencia), has played a critical role in providing the financial muscle behind the club’s success. While the ‘Class of 92’ are the public faces of the ownership, Lim’s contribution to the club’s growth cannot be understated.
David Beckham Joins the Ownership
In 2019, another member of the ‘Class of 92’, David Beckham, became a co-owner of Salford FC. Beckham purchased a 10% stake in the club, joining his former teammates and Peter Lim in the ownership group. With Beckham’s involvement, the club’s global profile has risen further, adding to its already growing fan base.
Current Ownership Breakdown
As of today, the ownership structure of Salford FC is as follows:
- 40% owned by the ‘Class of 92’
(Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, and David Beckham) - 60% owned by Peter Lim
The ‘Class of 92’ have retained a significant say in the running of the club, while Lim provides substantial financial support.
Ambitions for the Future
Salford FC’s owners have expressed their desire to continue the club’s upward trajectory, with aspirations to reach the Championship and eventually the Premier League. Their focus on community engagement, improving club infrastructure, and scouting young talents reflects their long-term vision for the club. With strong backing and a clear strategy, Salford FC is a club to watch in the coming years.
Who owns Salford FC? The club is jointly owned by the ‘Class of 92’, including footballing legends such as Gary Neville and David Beckham, and Singaporean billionaire Peter Lim. Their combined efforts have turned Salford FC into a competitive football team with ambitious plans for the future.
For more information on football club ownership and other teams, visit Who Owns.
Leave a Reply