Hartlepool United Football Club can today confirm that a Club takeover has completed.
Landon Smith, an American investor and co-founder of real estate company Tailwind Group, has acquired a full controlling stake in Hartlepool United with immediate effect.
The change of ownership will mark a significant new chapter in the Club’s history.
Departing Owner and Chairman, Raj Singh, commented:
“It has been a real privilege to act as custodian for Hartlepool United for nearly 8 years, and I am incredibly proud to have played a small part in this great Club’s journey.”
“I stepped in to help Hartlepool United when it was in a very difficult position, and ever since I have done my utmost to help.”
“Whilst we have not achieved sustained football League status, there have been some memorable days with the promotion at Ashton Gate and cup runs, including a 4th round FA Cup tie against Crystal Palace and a Papa John’s Trophy semi-final against Rotherham United that left us just a couple of penalty kicks away from the Club’s first ever visit to Wembley.”
“Overall, I do believe the Club is in a better place than when I found it, which was always a fundamental aim. It has operated with financial stability for an extended period, and it has made progress in some key areas on and off the field, including with commercial growth, formation of a new budding academy system, and establishing EFL readiness in various departments.”
“The search for a suitable owner has taken far longer than I ever imagined, and at various points I questioned whether I should continue. However, after more than two and a half years, I am now delighted to confirm this announcement.”
“Landon has passed all League and FA ownership criteria, including submission of detailed business plans and up-front proof of funding. Our own process and dealings with Landon have been professional from the outset and remained fully confidential, which is always an excellent sign.”
“Landon comes with an enthusiasm, skill sets and financial backing that should serve the Club well in its next chapter, and I would urge all supporters to get behind him, but also to be patient and sympathetic with plans and progress.”
“Being an owner of a football club can become all-consuming and take its toll in various ways. Undoubtedly, my family and even my other business interests have felt the effects during my tenure, and I want to thank them sincerely for their understanding and support.”
“I also want to thank the Club board, staff, players, volunteers and partners, both past and present. It is impossible to appreciate just how much work and dedication go on behind the scenes to make the Club tick, and that work is so often unrecognised.”
“Finally, and perhaps most prominently, I would also like to thank the fans for their support over the years. Pools truly is an incredible Club with some of the most incredible supporters in the
game. I wish them all the very best, and I will be eagerly following the next chapter as a supporter myself.”
New owner Landon Smith commented:
“I am delighted and honoured to take the reins as the latest steward at Hartlepool United.”
“Our immediate priority is to ensure a smooth transition period and to support the current staff and team with their endeavours this season. That work will start straight away.”
“Our longer-term vision is built around key cornerstones and guiding principles of:
· returning to EFL
· developing a full player and club pathway model
· enhancing financial sustainability, including through commercial growth
· enhancing engagement with supporters and community stakeholders
· investment in facilities and people
· respecting and protecting Club heritage”
“In the coming weeks and months, we will set out more details around those investment priorities. I would ask supporters and partners to be patient as we will be undertaking a full review of operations ahead of planning for next season and beyond.”
“I want to thank the departing owner, Raj Singh, and the transaction team on both sides. The process has been straightforward and professional from start to finish.”
“Having looked at several National League and EFL Clubs, it was clear to see the potential with Pools, including the benefit of the foundation work that has been put in under the current owner’s tenure. I’m looking forward to building on that, and I’m fully committed to investing in the Club for what I hope will be a very exciting future.”
Hartlepool United would like to thank everyone for their continued loyalty, and we look forward to embarking on this new journey and chapter with our loyal supporters, staff, and partners.
For any media enquiries, please contact the Club’s Media Officer, Dom Aberdeen, via dom.aberdeen@hartlepoolunited.co.uk
