The US based Jabara Family are taking a 9% stake in Lincoln City Holdings, joining the existing group of shareholders which owns 75% of Lincoln City Football Club.
The investment is headed up by Phoenix based Harvey Jabara, an investment executive and keen sports fan, who is also a minority member of the consortium which owns the Major League Baseball team, San Diego Padres.
Former USA international, and joint USMNT all-time top scorer, Landon Donovan, will join the club as a strategic advisor, as part of the development, working in a small role with the board, CEO Liam Scully and director of football Jez George to enhance the club’s network and relationships.
Harvey Jabara said: “We were in search of an organisation with great leadership, tremendous values and an upward trajectory of winning and success, looking to continue its ascent of the English football pyramid. In Lincoln City FC, we have satisfied our search.
“From the first time we looked at the Lincoln City deck, there was something unique about it, there was something special.”
The US based investor was keen to praise the club, he said: “This is a great organisation, and it has tremendous supporters and the environment around this club just felt right.
“We are proud to wear the Lincoln City colours.”
Photo: Finley Cannon
Commenting on what the investment will mean for the club Mr Jabara said: “We have unyielding admiration and respect for English football.
“We are not here to Americanise Lincoln City FC’s way of conducting business, we are not here to pursue or gain control of this football club.”
Club chairman Clive Nates said in a statement: “We have been talking to Harvey and Landon for some time now, but right from the initial meetings, it was clear to see we were aligned in our vision and values for the club.”
“I am sure all Imps fans will join me in welcoming Harvey, Missy, Jaxon, Jensen and Landon to Lincoln City Football Club.”
Harvey Jabara looks forward to getting to Lincoln, once Covid-19 restrictions allow.
“Our family is anxious for our maiden trip to Lincoln and the opportunity to meet our new friends and partners.” Later stating his eagerness to meet the fans, which he has been full of admiration for.
Further investment in the club will surely benefit the plans to expand the Stacey West Stand and further investment in the squad.