Rory McIlroy has told Sky Sports he was asked to invest in Leeds United along with golfers including Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas – but explains he chose not to, as he supports Manchester United.
The 49ers took over Leeds in the summer, finally buying out Andrea Radrizzani having previously held a 44% stake – and less than 30% in Elland Road. Now, the 49ers are in total control of both companies.
The 49ers have a number of investors behind them including a number of wealthy sportsmen. One that has been active in terms of his Leeds allegiance is New Orleans Pelicans basketball star Larry Nance Jr.
Spieth has also invested – and has a Leeds connection through caddy Billy Foster. Thomas, too. McIlroy turned down the chance to invest in Leeds – despite the Sunday Times saying he is worth £200million.
The Northern Irishman was speaking to Sky Sports over the weekend at the Texas F1 circuit, having put money into the Alpine F1 team. He is also linked with an investment into Manchester United’s ownership.
“Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas invested with the 49ers Group. They own a tiny slice of Leeds. They asked me if I wanted to come on board, and I said as a Man United fan I cannot go anywhere near that.”
McIlroy turned down Leeds due to supporting Manchester United
Probably the smart move. Yes, McIlroy is seen as a British sporting icon and was key in Europe’s recent Ryder Cup win over USA in Rome. But, as a Manchester United fan, it would have angered Leeds fans.
Investment in football from sporting names is becoming more and more of a thing. You only have to look at Birmingham City to see Tom Brady has been central to a takeover. Leeds have plenty of their own.
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