The Premier League club, Chelsea, announced on Thursday that the consortium BlueCo, which acquired the club last year, has reached an agreement to become the majority shareholders of French club Strasbourg. This strategic move will involve substantial investments in Strasbourg’s first teams and academy, with the club’s president, Marc Keller, continuing in his role since 2012, when he steered the club away from the brink of liquidation.
Over the years, Strasbourg has made remarkable progress, ascending from the third tier to Ligue 1, where they have consistently competed for the past six seasons. In 2019, they even secured the French League Cup. However, their 15th-place finish in Ligue 1 last season highlighted the need for further development and support.
Marc Keller expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This is an important day for Racing [Club de Strasbourg]. It’s something my shareholder friends and I have been contemplating for the past two years.” Keller acknowledged the club’s overall stability and effective management but recognized the limitations of their current model. He emphasized the necessity of partnering with a robust structure capable of propelling Racing forward and expanding their ambitions.
Although specific details about the stake were not disclosed, sources indicate that the consortium will hold nearly 100% ownership after paying a substantial sum of €75 million ($82.13 million). This significant investment underscores BlueCo’s commitment to Strasbourg and its long-term growth.
The acquisition of Chelsea by an investment group led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital last year necessitated Roman Abramovich’s departure from the Premier League club. BlueCo, as the new majority shareholders of both Chelsea and Strasbourg, aims to actively contribute to the development of Strasbourg’s existing model. The consortium plans to provide financial support, enabling investments in the men’s and women’s first teams, the academy, and various other aspects of the club.
The collaboration between BlueCo and Strasbourg marks an exciting chapter for both clubs. With enhanced financial resources and expertise, Strasbourg hopes to further solidify their presence in French football and continue their upward trajectory. The partnership demonstrates the ambition and dedication of BlueCo in fostering growth and success in multiple football arenas. As the future unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the positive impact of this collaboration on both Chelsea and Strasbourg.
