LAFC Sell Majority Stake In Grasshopper Club Zurich
Markham Capital & Sports Advisory has announced the successful completion of the sale of Los Angeles Football Club’s (LAFC) 96.47% majority stake in Grasshopper Club Zurich (GCZ) to Bridge Football Group Switzerland AG.
The firm originated the transaction, managed the international sale process and acted as exclusive sell-side adviser throughout, working closely with all parties to deliver a successful outcome.
The transaction followed a highly competitive international sale process managed by Markham Capital & Sports Advisory, attracting interest from more than a dozen credible investors and ownership groups.
Following extensive engagement with prospective purchasers, Bridge Football Group was selected as the preferred buyer based on its long-term strategic vision for Grasshopper Club Zurich and commitment to preserving the club’s heritage while investing in its future.
Founded in 1886, Grasshopper Club Zurich is Switzerland’s most successful football club, with 27 Swiss league titles and 19 Swiss Cups. The transaction marks the beginning of a new chapter for one of European football’s most historic institutions, with Bridge Football Group setting out plans to strengthen the club’s long-term sporting and financial foundations while maintaining its identity within Swiss football.
Dr. Tom Markham, Principal of Markham Capital & Sports Advisory, said: “We are delighted to have originated and advised on this landmark transaction involving one of Switzerland’s most historic football clubs.
“The strong level of interest throughout the sale process demonstrates the continued attractiveness of well-positioned football assets to high-quality international investors and reflects the growing maturity of the global football investment market.
“We congratulate LAFC and Bridge Football Group on reaching a successful outcome and wish everyone involved every success as Grasshopper Club Zurich embarks on this exciting new chapter.”
Larry Freedman, Co-President and Co-owner of LAFC, said: “Tom and Markham Capital & Sports Advisory are consummate professionals. They are thorough in their approach, relentless in their efforts and ultimately deliver results. Given the opportunity, we would most certainly engage their services again in the future.”
