In a remarkable turn of events, Bristol Rovers’ ownership landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as owner Wael al Qadi has decided to sell a majority stake in the club. The ambitious Kuwaiti businessman Hussain AlSaeed has stepped forward and purchased a substantial 55% share of Dwane Sports, the club’s holding company, while Al Qadi will continue to hold 40.5% of the shares. This deal, recently approved by the English Football League, is poised to usher in a new era for the League One club.
“I have been a huge football fan for many years, and it has always been my ambition to own a stake in a club. BRFC is the one club that I most desired to be a part of, due to its great fanbase and future potential,” expressed AlSaeed, brimming with enthusiasm about his latest venture into the footballing world.
While the Jordanian Al Qadi bought Bristol Rovers back in 2016, it was only in 2020 that he assumed full control. As the club’s president, Al Qadi played a vital role in the team’s journey so far. However, with the arrival of Hussain AlSaeed as chairman, the club’s administration is set to see new perspectives and strategies.
AlSaeed expressed his commitment to the fans, stating, “From this day on, I assure the fans that we will be working tirelessly on the sustainability and growth of the football club. Rovers are a club with huge potential that is still untapped, and it is our duty to make sure that we do everything possible to improve the current state.”
As part of this transformative deal, all outstanding debt owed to Dwane Sports has been capitalised. In a statement, the club clarified, “This means that apart from our ordinary trade creditors, the club is substantively debt-free.” This move is likely to offer the club newfound financial stability and allow them to focus on their on-field ambitions.
Amidst this excitement, the club also had an update on the planned redevelopment of the South Stand at their Memorial Ground Stadium. Initially, the stand’s enhancement, which would have increased the number of seats to 3,425, was expected to be ready for the start of the new season. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the works have experienced delays, and the club will begin the new campaign with a reduced capacity.
Despite the setback, Bristol Rovers remain determined to provide the best matchday experience for their loyal supporters. The club has been in discussions with the EFL and Barnsley, but a reversal of the fixture was not feasible. As a result, season ticket holders in the affected area are being contacted, and the number of away tickets has been limited.
The South Stand redevelopment has not been without its share of controversy, as some local residents voiced concerns about work commencing before obtaining necessary approvals. Addressing these concerns, the club assured that they are actively collaborating with local residents and the local planning authority, and the planning application has now been officially registered by the council, currently under assessment.
With the dawn of this new era under the stewardship of Hussain AlSaeed, Bristol Rovers’ future is poised for an exciting trajectory. As the club sets its sights on progress both on and off the field, fans eagerly await the developments that will shape the destiny of their beloved club. With the resources and vision of their new majority stakeholder, the untapped potential of Bristol Rovers may soon be realized, leading to glory and success in the footballing world.
