Super League’s Castleford Tigers agree to Martin Jepson takeover
Super League outfit Castleford Tigers have confirmed a takeover agreement with UK businessman Martin Jepson.
The lifelong Tigers fan has agreed to purchase the shares held by incumbent owners Janet and Ian Fulton, after initially acquiring a 32% share in the West Yorkshire club in December 2023.
This option agreement will need to be triggered by 31st January 2025, according to a statement from Tigers.
In the meantime, the club’s board is set for a restructuring, as Jepson seeks to find parties interested in joining the team.
Jepson will oversee the day-to-day operations at the rugby league club, with Fulton set to step down as Chairman.
“I couldn’t be more excited about the future ahead and I am totally committed to both the club and its fans and giving 100% to this project,” Jepson said.
“When I joined the board, I said that I wanted to secure the club’s immediate future under the IMG regime and bring long-term stability and that will remain the focus.”
“There is lots of work to be done, starting immediately, and I recognise that I cannot do it all on my own.
“I have always said that we would be open to new investment into the Club and would welcome the opportunity to speak to any individuals interested in joining me on this journey to help realise our collective ambition.”
Castleford Tigers finished 10th in the last season’s Super League table, with the new owner aiming to replicate the club’s former successes.
Although Tigers have never won a league title, the club have finished second on three occasions, most recently in 2017, when the team lifted the League Leaders’ Shield after the regular season.
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