The Bezos Factor: Unpicking the Puzzle of Liverpool's Potential Investors
Jeff Bezos has reportedly been approached to join a consortium aiming to buy a 30% stake in Liverpool FC, led by Amit Bhatia. The development adds a new twist to the club's investment story, with fans questioning motives.
The saga of potential investment in Liverpool took a new turn on Wednesday as the name of Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and one of the world's richest men, was linked to a consortium seeking a minority stake in the Premier League club.
Just a day earlier, it emerged that a consortium led by British-Indian businessman Amit Bhatia had expressed interest in acquiring a strategic minority investment. Bhatia, 46, is the son-in-law of Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal and had been a director and co-owner of Queens Park Rangers for 18 years before selling his stake on Tuesday. This move is seen as clearing the way for him to lead the investor group, which reportedly aims to buy 30% of Liverpool's shares.
Now reports suggest Bezos has been approached to join the consortium. Sources close to Bhatia declined to comment on whether Bezos was approached, stating only that the consortium had held discussions with several potential investors. Fenway Sports Group (FSG), Liverpool's owners, also declined to comment.
Bezos, 62, is the world's fourth-richest person with an estimated net worth of $256.9bn (£192.1bn), according to Forbes. He stepped down as Amazon's CEO in 2021 but still owns 8% of the company. He also owns The Washington Post and aerospace firm Blue Origin.
Although Bezos has never invested in sports, he came close in 2023 when he was linked to a takeover of the NFL's Washington Commanders, and previously explored buying the Seattle Seahawks. He ultimately decided against both.
Since FSG's takeover in October 2010, Liverpool have enjoyed sustained success, winning two Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup and other trophies since 2019. The prospect of new investors, especially those new to elite sport, raises questions. Neil Atkinson, CEO of The Anfield Wrap, a fan media outlet, told BBC Sport that the 'why' must be asked: what motivates such wealthy individuals to invest in a club where annual turnover barely makes a dent in their wealth?
