Llanelli Town AFC has become the first Welsh football club to join Republic Europe, the platform for fan and investor ownership in professional sports.
The move opens the door for supporters and investors across the world to purchase a minority stake in the historic club.
The deal was brokered by Glasgow-based sports agency Intermezzo Sports Ltd, led by CEO Cesare Marchetti (pictured), which said the partnership marks a ‘significant milestone in Welsh football’.
Watford FC and AFC Wimbledon have previously run such crowdfunding equity schemes on the Republic Europe – formerly Seedrs – platform. Llanelli supporters will be hoping that the deal plays out in the manner of Wimbledon’s campaign rather than that of Watford.
Last year the Hornets offered up £17.5m-worth of shares for 10% of the club, with the aim of attracting institutional investors from the US and Middle East – but just short of £4m was taken up, seemingly all by fans, according to the Watford Observer.
The digital equity scheme was subsequently cancelled, with Republic writing to the investors earlier this year to inform them of the decision.
Founded in 1896, Llanelli Town AFC is one of Wales’ most storied clubs, having competed in the Europa League preliminary round as recently as 2012. The club’s ambition is to build a sustainable, community-powered future, with funds raised through the campaign to be invested in infrastructure, youth development, and commercial growth.
Gary Neville favourite to replace Sara Davies on Dragons’ Den
“Football is changing, and Republic gives clubs a new avenue to raise capital while engaging with their fans and building for the future,” said Marchetti.
“It’s a model that brings transparency, accessibility, and global reach to clubs who want to grow the right way.”
Llanelli Town AFC chairman Wayne Stephens added: “This is an exciting new chapter for our club. We’re proud to be leading the way in Wales by giving supporters and investors a genuine opportunity to be part of our journey. Football is at its best when it’s rooted in community and shared ambition.”
Ben Stokes & Jofra Archer invest in medical travel disrupter