Geldards sports law team gets football club deal over the line

Geldards Sports Law team has helped two brothers take ownership of a London-based football club after months of extensive negotiations.

Brothers Rafa and Stefano Petruzzo have become the new owners of Hampton & Richmond Borough FC, which competes in the National League South, through their investment company Ramayana Ventures Limited.

The pair are already well known to fans as they have worked with the club for the last 15 months, helping to bring two new kit sponsors on board.

Geldards Sports Law team, led by partner Jamie Goldberg, advised Ramayana throughout the complex transaction process.

This included negotiations with a consortium of British/American investors to raise equity investment funds as well as negotiations with the club’s Supporters Trust.

As a result of these negotiations, the Supporters Trust will continue to have a role in the management of the club going forward.

Jamie Goldberg said:

“This is an excellent result for our clients after months of detailed and at-times complex negotiations with several parties.  Our team had to bring their full expertise of various legal disciplines to bear, including the football regulatory environment and corporate M&A transactions, as well as a pinch of pragmatism.  The deal demonstrates Geldards’ experience in and knowledge of the football sector and how we’ve used both to get the deal across the line for our clients.”

The Petruzzos have an extensive background in corporate transformation and growth with executive roles across banking, retail, fashion, sports, and technology.

Stefano spent six years as Strategy Director for Liverpool FC and has since used his skills and experience to help grassroots sports organisations across the world.

Rafa has worked in banking, retail and sports with a focus on digital, technology, and operations transformation aimed at attracting and engaging with new audiences.

One of their first priorities for Hampton & Richmond Borough FC will be the development of recurring and sustainable business models to ensure there is a sound financial base to build upon.

Another priority will be to enhance club operations and the matchday offering, providing fans with an even more enjoyable experience.

A particular focus will be given to the role of technology, digital and data, as well as supporting and developing youth across the club’s academy and other community programmes. Success will be measured both on and off of the pitch, underpinned by financial prudence and sustainability with a strong community focus.

Chairman Jacques Le Bars will continue in his role, working alongside the Petruzzo Brothers who will assume the role of Executive Directors.

Jamie Goldberg said

“I have known the Petruzzo Brothers for more than a decade, and I know they have the experience and the drive to take the club to new heights. I’m excited to see their ambitious plans come to fruition as they grow the club and its supporter base in the coming years.”

Mr Goldberg was supported in negotiations by Simon Davers corporate partner, Sarah Bailey senior corporate associate, Alex Needham commercial solicitor, and Amanda Hamilton corporate trainee solicitor.

For more information please contact the Sports Law team.