Liverpool’s ownership has undergone a major change this summer after Fenway Sports Group (FSG) confirmed the sale of a minority stake in the club. The deal has brought Amazon founder Jeff Bezos into Liverpool’s ownership structure.
Bezos is part of 1982 Holdings, the investment group that has acquired around 33% of Liverpool for approximately £1.35 billion. The consortium is led by Amit Bhatia and also includes Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin.
The development has sparked controversy, particularly because of Bezos’ immense wealth and Amazon’s business practices. British MP Zarah Sultana has strongly criticised the investment, questioning whether the deal fits with Liverpool’s long-standing working-class identity and social values.
Sultana also raised concerns about Amazon’s involvement in Project Nimbus, which provides cloud and AI services to the Israeli government. She argued that Liverpool supporters should pay close attention to what the new ownership could mean for the club’s future.
The controversy has been heightened by a clause reportedly included in the agreement.
According to The Athletic, 1982 Holdings could have the option to purchase the remaining shares and complete a full takeover of Liverpool within the next 12 months.
However, the clause is only an option and does not mean a full takeover is guaranteed. Nevertheless, the possibility has already caused concern among some supporters.
Liverpool supporters’ group Spirit of Shankly has called for greater transparency over the ownership changes, stressing the importance of understanding the deal’s long-term implications.
For now, Bezos and his consortium hold a minority stake—but the newly revealed clause means Liverpool could potentially face another major ownership change much sooner than expected.
