Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský has purchased a minority stake in the British West Ham United football club, amounting to 27 percent of the London club. According to the British media, Křetínský’s investment is worth about 150 million pounds (€175.3 million).
West Ham confirmed the deal on its website. Křetínský and his business partner Pavel Horský will be members of the Board of Directors of WH Holding Ltd. Křetínský acquired 27 percent of the club through 1890s Holdings.
According to some speculations, Křetínský is to gradually take over the entire club. The total investment should thus climb to 20 billion korunas (€791.5 million), which is now the total worth of West Ham.
“I am delighted this detailed process has now been successfully concluded. I am passionate about football. I greatly appreciate and respect the exceptional history and tradition of West Ham United as well as its loyal and passionate supporter base and also the highly inspiring role it plays in many social programmes and initiatives,” said Daniel Křetínský in an official statement.
“The development and growth of the club in recent years has been clear for everyone to see, and I am delighted to be part of what I believe is a very exciting future ahead. Having been to the London Stadium recently to watch David Moyes’ team, I know it is an incredible time to become part of the West Ham United family. I feel privileged to now have the opportunity to help everyone here build on the proud traditions of this great club,” added Křetínský.
