Cardiff Rugby Converts Takeover
Cardiff Rugby has announced that Helford Capital Limited’s acquisition of a majority shareholding in the company will complete today.
A general meeting took place on Tuesday 23rd January where the relevant changes to the company’s share structure and constitution were made to allow the acquisition received a 99.99% majority approval.
Helford Capital, which is an investment group spearheaded by British businessmen Phil Kempe and Neal Griffith, will now become majority shareholders of the company.
Sir Gareth Edwards has been appointed the club’s new president.
Alun Jones, Chair of Cardiff Rugby, said, “Today represents a huge moment in the history of Cardiff Rugby and gives us a bright, secure and exciting future.
“Following the sad passing of Peter Thomas, it was essential that we found new investment to safeguard the cub and drive us forward. We remain indebted to Peter, the Thomas family and the other shareholders who have moved on but we now have new owners who can help us fulfil Peter’s vision and ambitions for the club with renewed passion.
“Phil and Neal have a genuine appetite to restore Cardiff as a European force and have already begun stabilising the foundations. With Helford Capital at the helm, we want to deliver exceptional rugby experiences whether you are a player, a member of staff, a supporter or sponsor.
“Helford have the resource and ambition to deliver that and we will now begin an inclusive process with all key stakeholders to build a new long-term strategy.”
Abi Tierney, Chief Executive Officer of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), “Congratulations to Cardiff Rugby and everyone involved in the negotiations and process to seek new investment, which today has reached a hugely successful conclusion.
“We welcome Helford Capital wholeheartedly to Welsh rugby with a sense of excitement and optimism about what the future holds.”
The club will rename the South Stand the Peter Thomas Stand to recognise his contribution as a player, patron, benefactor, long-standing chairman and life president.
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