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

Sunderland have sold a majority stake in their women’s team to Bay Collective, a US multi club ownership group backed by US investment firm Sixth Street. The club becomes the group’s second team, alongside Bay FC.

According to Sunderland Echo, the agreement follows almost a year of negotiations and remains subject to approval from the relevant football authorities.

Sunderland will retain a minority stake intended to protect the club’s identity, values and intellectual property. The women’s side will stay at the Academy of Light and be run in partnership with the wider club.

Interim chief executive Tom Burwell called it a significant step after reviewing several options, highlighting Bay Collective’s global expertise and long term approach, and saying it forms part of a wider investment plan that will also upgrade the Academy of Light.

Bay Collective chief executive Kay Cossington said the partnership would honour Sunderland Women’s DNA and support players, staff and the Academy with resources tailored to women athletes. A joint statement outlined plans to strengthen the squad, staff and infrastructure, and to enhance matchday experiences and operations.

Sunderland are eighth in WSL 2 with two games left, with fresh investment viewed as key to closing the gap and pursuing Super League ambitions.

Source: Sunderland Echo