Sunderland sell majority stake in women’s team to US group Bay Collective | OneFootball

According to Sunderland Echo, Sunderland have sold a majority stake in their women’s team to Bay Collective, a US multi-club group backed by Sixth Street. The agreement, reached after almost a year of negotiations, still requires approval from the relevant football authorities.

Sunderland will be the second club in Bay Collective’s portfolio, alongside Bay FC. The club will keep a minority share, with the women’s side run in partnership with the wider organisation and remaining at the Academy of Light.

Interim chief executive Tom Burwell called it an important step for Sunderland Women and the wider club. He said several options were assessed over the past year and Bay Collective stood out for its global expertise and long-term approach, with the partnership aiming for sustainable success while preserving Sunderland’s identity and values.

Burwell added that the deal forms part of the club’s global investment plan and will upgrade key facilities, including the Academy of Light, for women’s, men’s and academy teams. Bay Collective chief executive Kay Cossington said the group will honour Sunderland Women’s legacy, provide tailored resources for players and staff, and strengthen ties with fans and partners over the long term.

A joint statement said the partnership will strengthen the squad, staff, infrastructure, performance environments and the academy, and enhance matchday and operations. Sunderland are eighth in the WSL 2 with two games left, and fresh investment is seen as important to close the gap to the leaders and pursue Super League ambitions.

Source: Sunderland Echo