Bezos consortium bought almost 40% of Liverpool
August 18, 2026 15:51
A consortium called 1892 Holdings has purchased a strategic minority stake in Liverpool from Fenway Sports Group (FSG), acquiring roughly 38% of the club. Initial reports said the sale was about a third, but that figure was subsequently clarified to be closer to 38%.
The deal was confirmed by FSG as a "definitive agreement" for a strategic minority investment. 1892 Holdings is led by Amit Bhatia and includes Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin.
KEY CONTEXT
- 1892 Holdings takes its name from Liverpool’s founding year.
- Amit Bhatia, who will be appointed vice‑chairman and join an expanded board, stepped down last month from an 18‑year role as director and co‑owner of Queens Park Rangers after relinquishing his stake.
- Bhatia is also identified in the source as the son‑in‑law of Lakshmi Mittal.
WHY IT MATTERS
- The transaction hands a significant minority share—almost two fifths—of Liverpool to outside investors, altering the club’s ownership structure.
- The consortium holds an option to acquire a controlling stake within the next 12 months; that option exists but is not a binding commitment, so the club’s ultimate control could change depending on whether it is exercised.
- Bhatia’s planned role as vice‑chairman and a place on an expanded board (pending regulatory consent) means the consortium will have a direct leadership presence if approvals proceed.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Regulatory approval for Bhatia’s vice‑chairman appointment and his board seat.
- Whether the consortium exercises its option to buy a controlling stake within the 12‑month window.
- Any further statements or filings from FSG or 1892 Holdings clarifying the timeline and terms of the investment.
KEY FACTS
- 1892 Holdings bought about 38% of Liverpool from Fenway Sports Group.
- The consortium includes Amit Bhatia, Jeff Bezos and Eduardo Saverin.
- FSG described the transaction as a "definitive agreement" for a "strategic minority investment."
- There is an option for the consortium to buy a controlling stake within the next 12 months, but no formal commitment to do so.
- Amit Bhatia is set to become vice‑chairman and join an expanded board, subject to regulatory approval; he had relinquished his 18‑year stake in Queens Park Rangers last month.