Las Vegas-Based Investor Chris Bord Leading Bid to Buy Sheffield Wednesday
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Chris Bord, a London-born data analytics entrepreneur and owner of Dunfermline Athletic, is heading a bid to acquire Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, currently at the bottom of the English Championship table. The potential takeover is subject to approval from the EFL’s Owners and Directors’ test,which may present challenges due to Bord’s previous involvement in the gambling industry.
Background of Chris Bord
Bord began his career in the gambling sector,working for firms like Starlizard and Smartodds.He achieved significant personal success as a poker player, winning $4.3 million (£3.18 million) on the circuit [https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/nov/27/sheffield-wednesday-takeover-bid-chris-bord-dunfermline]. He now operates Short Circuit Science, a data company specializing in sports analytics using artificial intelligence (AI). Bord previously served in an advisory capacity to COH Sports following their takeover of Sheffield United, but has since severed ties with the club.
He also holds stakes in European football clubs, including Spanish Segunda División side Cordoba CF and Bulgarian club septemvri Sofia, through his company Park Bench SFC LLC. Bord,currently based in Las vegas,purchased Dunfermline Athletic alongside partner Evan Sofer nearly a year ago and recently attended his first match in person – a 3-2 loss to Ayr United.
The sheffield Wednesday Bid
The structure of Bord’s consortium aiming to buy Sheffield Wednesday remains unclear, as does weather the acquisition will be conducted under the Park Bench SFC LLC umbrella. Sheffield Wednesday faces significant challenges, currently sitting at the bottom of the Championship with -9 points due to previous financial penalties [https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/67519999].
Potential Hurdles: The EFL’s Owners and Directors’ Test
The proposed takeover is contingent upon passing the English Football League’s (EFL) Owners and Directors’ Test. This test assesses the suitability of prospective owners,focusing on financial stability and character. Bord’s past involvement in the gambling industry could present a hurdle, as the EFL scrutinizes potential conflicts of interest and adherence to responsible gambling practices. The test aims to ensure the long-term financial stability and integrity of the club.
Key Takeaways
* Chris Bord is leading a bid to buy Sheffield Wednesday. He currently owns Dunfermline Athletic and has investments in other European clubs.
* The deal is subject to EFL approval. The Owners and Directors’ Test could be challenging due to Bord’s background in gambling.
* Sheffield Wednesday faces significant challenges. the club is currently bottom of the Championship with a points deduction.
* the structure of the bid is currently unclear. it’s unknown if Park Bench SFC LLC will be directly involved.
Looking Ahead
The potential acquisition of Sheffield Wednesday by Chris Bord represents a significant progress for the struggling club. Successfully navigating the EFL’s Owners and Directors’ Test will be crucial. If approved,Bord’s data-driven approach to football ownership,combined with his existing portfolio of clubs,could offer a new path forward for the Owls. The coming weeks will be critical as the EFL reviews the bid and determines the future of Sheffield Wednesday.
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