Former Leeds Rhinos President Poised to Acquire Majority Stake in Hull FC
Former Leeds Rhinos President Andrew Thirkill, listed as Yorkshire’s 42nd wealthiest businessman in 2022, is close to acquiring a majority stake in fellow Super League club Hull FC, according to the team’s recent announcement. The 65-year-old lifelong Rhinos supporter stepped down from his role at Leeds earlier this month after serving as President since 2019.
With an estimated net worth of around £175 million, Thirkill, a former apprentice bricklayer, is set to take over Hull FC alongside David Hood OBE, a technology entrepreneur. The new ownership duo is poised to provide sufficient funding to help the club regain its Grade A status and implement a revamped management structure aimed at improving its league positioning.
“Current Hull FC owner Adam Pearson, who has held the reins since 2011, expressed his delight at handing over the club’s leadership to Thirkill, citing the latter’s love for rugby league and passion for success as the perfect combination to drive the team’s future prosperity.”
Pearson, who turns 60 this month, will continue to assist the new board in an advisory capacity, while Director of Rugby Richie Myler will maintain control over all playing matters.
This change in ownership is widely expected to herald a bright new era for Hull FC, with the club’s supporters urged to rally together and restore a sense of unity and pride. The incoming board’s commitment to investing in the team’s growth and performance is anticipated to position the Black and Whites for a sustained challenge at the top end of the Super League standings.
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