Bill Foley, an American billionaire best known as the proprietor of renown English Premier League club Bournemouth, has acquired the license for the imminent Auckland-based franchise set to debut in the A-League next year. With an estimated net worth of $US1.6bn ($A2.5bn), Foley is recognized by the Australian Professional Leagues as the favored contender for the fledgling Auckland club, which will be gracing both the men’s and women’s A-League competitions in the 2024-25 season.
In addition to Bournemouth, the ventures of the respected 78-year-old Texan extend to being the managing general partner of Black Knight Football and Entertainment. This distinguished firm is also the proud owner of FC Lorient, a key player within the French top-flight scene.
Foley’s portfolio is further enriched by his ownership of the American ice hockey team, Vegas Golden Knights. In this capacity, he holds significant titles as the lead investor, chairman, and chief executive officer of the Black Knight Sports and Entertainment consortium.
Interestingly enough, Foley’s connection to New Zealand is not only recent nor solely restricted to sport. He has substantial ties to the land of the Kiwis, being the proprietor of various businesses such as Foley Wines Ltd, an extensive restaurant group, along with the esteemed Wharekauhau lodge located on the South Wairarapa Coast.
Expressing his fondness for the nation, Foley stated, “My family and I have a genuine appreciation and love for New Zealand. Our aim is to fortify this bond by acquiring the A-League expansion license in Auckland, thus paving the way for the establishment of men’s and women’s clubs in the city.”
Foley also expressed his commitment to promoting excellence through Black Knight Football Club, both on and off the pitch. In his words, his objectives include “building a winning organization, serving the community effectively, and cultivating the sport at all levels.” He is thrilled to have arrived at this point in the process and eagerly anticipates the subsequent steps.
Foley’s bid for the are expected to receive an affirmation from Football Australia, subsequently earning the nods of the Asian and Oceania football confederations and New Zealand Football.
Nick Garcia, A-League commissioner, highlights Foley’s direct elite football experience as a potential boon for the competition. He stated “Importantly, Bill is passionate about Auckland and has a long-term relationship with New Zealand through his business interests. Auckland is the biggest city in Australia and New Zealand without a professional football team despite football being New Zealand’s most popular team participation sport. We anticipate capitalizing on the success of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and furnish football enthusiasts in Auckland with a new home team.”
