James Bord Consortium Selected as Preferred Buyer for Sheffield Wednesday
UPDATE: Sheffield Wednesday’s ownership crisis is on the brink of resolution as a consortium led by James Bord, a former professional poker player, has been named the club’s preferred buyer. This pivotal decision comes as the Championship team seeks to emerge from administration, a status it has held since October 2023 due to severe financial difficulties.
The administrators of the South Yorkshire club confirmed that after weeks of scrutiny, they have chosen Bord’s bid over competing offers, including those from former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley and American investor David Storch. This announcement marks a crucial turning point in the ongoing ownership battle that has left fans anxious and the club in disarray.
The move to administration ended Dejphon Chansiri’s decade-long tenure, which was marred by substantial debts, unpaid taxes, and delayed wage payments. As a result, Sheffield Wednesday currently sits at the bottom of the Championship standings, facing penalties that could lead to relegation to League One.
Bord, originally from London and now residing in Las Vegas, has made a name for himself in the sports industry after a successful career in poker, where he amassed millions in winnings. Transitioning from gaming to football, he founded Short Circuit Science, an analytics company that has collaborated with clubs such as Sheffield United and Tottenham Hotspur. His expertise lies in identifying undervalued young talent, which could be critical for the struggling Owls.
The consortium’s ownership experience is underscored by Bord’s investments in various clubs, including Córdoba in Spain and Dunfermline Athletic in Scotland, which he purchased earlier this year. The administrators highlighted this relevant experience in their announcement, suggesting that Bord’s team is well-equipped to navigate the challenges of operating within regulated league frameworks.
However, the deal still faces a significant hurdle: approval from the English Football League (EFL). The EFL will conduct a comprehensive review of the consortium, particularly scrutinizing Bord’s connections to the gambling industry. Reports indicate that the bid adheres to EFL rules regarding creditor payments, a crucial factor that could prevent further point deductions next season.
Fan reactions have been mixed. Some supporters express skepticism about the financial stability behind Bord’s bid and whether a data-driven approach can stabilize the club after years of turmoil. Conversely, many are relieved that the ownership process is finally progressing after months of uncertainty.
As the situation develops, Bord and his team will face one of the most challenging turnaround tasks in English soccer if the acquisition is finalized. The immediate future of Sheffield Wednesday hangs in the balance, with fans and stakeholders eagerly awaiting the next steps in this critical transition.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds, with significant implications for the club and its loyal supporters.
