Mark Ashton confirms big Ipswich Town development ahead of EFL return | OneFootball

Ipswich Town confirm full ownership transfer as Marcus Evans sells remaining shares

Ipswich Town Chairman and CEO Mark Ashton has confirmed that the club has purchased the remaining shares held by former owner Marcus Evans, bringing an end to his 17-year financial association with the club.

The news was announced by Ashton during the club’s end-of-season dinner on Monday evening.

Evans, who initially bought Ipswich in 2007 while they were in the Championship, retained a minority stake after selling the club to American investment group Gamechanger 20 Ltd in April 2021.

At the time, Evans waived close to £100 million of debt but kept a 5% shareholding, which was later diluted to around 1% following further investment from Bright Path Sports Partners in March 2024.

Marcus Evans ends 17-year Ipswich Town association with final share sale

Evans’ remaining shares have now been acquired by ORG, the club’s majority shareholder.

As part of the sale, Evans has also given up his executive box at Portman Road, although the club has indicated he remains welcome to attend matches.

Since Ashton’s arrival, Ipswich achieved back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League.

However, their return to the top flight lasted just one season, with the club finishing 19th and suffering relegation. They will compete in the Championship again for the 2025/26 campaign.

Under the Gamechanger 20 Ltd ownership group, Ipswich have received substantial off-field investment and seen an upturn in on-field results, culminating in their return to the Premier League for the first time in over two decades.

Despite the setback of relegation, the acquisition of Evans’ final shares consolidates full ownership under the American-led group, offering long-term stability as the club regroups in the Championship.

American-led Gamechanger group now owns 100% of Ipswich Town - it's exciting news ahead of Championship return

Evans’ tenure included periods of significant financial input but also growing discontent from sections of the fanbase over stagnation and a perceived lack of direction.

Ipswich were relegated to League One in 2019 and remained there until the club’s sale and subsequent rise under new leadership.

With ownership now fully transferred and a clear leadership structure in place, Ipswich Town approach the 2025/26 season aiming to bounce back from relegation and re-establish themselves in the Championship.