Majority ownership of Norwich City Football Club could be transferred from Delia Smith to Mark Attanasio

American Businessman Set to Equalize Ownership Stake in Norwich City

In a surprising turn of events, American businessman Mark Attanasio is poised to increase his ownership stake in Norwich City Football Club. This move will bring him on par with current majority shareholders Delia Smith and Michael Wynn Jones.

The Championship club has scheduled a shareholder meeting at Carrow Road on October 2nd to finalize the agreement. Attanasio’s Norfolk group will acquire an impressive 195,012 shares, effectively matching Smith and Wynn Jones’ existing 40% stake in the club.

While details surrounding the deal remain undisclosed, it is expected that this transaction will have significant implications for the future of Norwich City FC.

The Takeover Panel Allows for Exemption from Mandatory Offer Rule

An interesting development in this acquisition is that UK regulatory body, the Takeover Panel, has waived a rule which would typically require the Norfolk group to make a mandatory offer to holders of the remaining 20% of shares in the club. Notably among them are members of Canaries Trust supporters’ group.

Excitement Surrounds Attanasio’s Involvement

Mark Attanasio already made waves when he purchased long-serving director Michael Foulger’s 15.9% stake during a September meeting earlier this year. His arrival was warmly received by Delia Smith and Michael Wynn Jones, who described it as “a breath of fresh air.”

Attanasio’s enthusiasm for the club is palpable. He referred to his involvement as “really exciting” and expressed how he found both the club and the city of Norwich “intoxicating.” As an owner of Major League Baseball franchise, Milwaukee Brewers, Attanasio brings a wealth of experience in sports ownership.

Potential End of an Era at Carrow Road?

If all goes according to plan on October 2nd, this will mark a significant moment for Norwich City Football Club. After 27 years, Delia Smith and Michael Wynn Jones may no longer hold majority shares in the club.

Attanasio has already taken active steps towards integrating into the club by securing a position on its board and involving himself in day-to-day operations. Notably, he recently attended his first away game with his son Mike by his side.

Ambitious Plans for English Football

This acquisition demonstrates Mark Attanasio’s serious intent to make an impact on English football. As owner of successful Major League Baseball franchise Milwaukee Brewers, he brings valuable expertise to Norwich City FC.

The support shown by Delia Smith and Michael Wynn Jones indicates that there may be a succession plan in motion. This potential shift hints at the end of an era at Carrow Road – one that has seen multiple promotions to Premier League status but had limited success maintaining top-flight status over extended periods.