Plymouth Argyle minority owner Nick Giannotti has become involved with a third different club, this time at Larne in Northern Ireland.
Redball Global FC have acquired the 50 per cent shareholding of Kenny Bruce in Larne, who finished as runners-up to Linfield in the NIFL Premiership last season and also competed in the league phase of the UEFA Conference League. As a result, Giannotti and Eric Perez, who is also the chairman and chief executive officer of Truro City, have joined the County Antrim club's board of directors.
It was announced last Friday that United States-based businessman Giannotti, who has been an Argyle director since September 2022, had become the owner of League of Ireland First Division club Athlone Town. Plymouth Live understands Giannotti's interests in Athlone Town and Larne will have no impact on his involvement at Argyle.
A statement from Larne FC confirmed Redball Global FC had purchased Bruce's 50 per cent stake in the club and called it 'a significant milestone in the club's ongoing growth and ambition.
"This transformative investment will see Nick Giannotti and Eric Perez, two seasoned executives with deep experience in international football and sports business join the Larne FC board of directors," continued the statement.
"Nick is a respected entrepreneur and sports investor known for his work in developing innovative football projects across Europe. With a track record in strategic growth and club development, Giannotti brings a wealth of expertise in building sustainable success on and off the pitch.
"Eric Perez is an accomplished sports executive with extensive leadership experience, including founding and guiding professional sports organizations in the UK and North America. His passion for football and operational excellence has earned recognition across multiple sporting codes.
"Together, their involvement signals a new era for Larne FC, as the club looks to build on its recent successes and strengthen its position in the NIFL Premiership."
Bruce said in the club statement: "I have always said that when it came time to hand over my shareholding in the club it would be to people who could give Larne FC a competitive edge moving forward and I am firmly of the belief this is the case.
"Since the moment our conversations began, both Nick and Eric have been an absolute pleasure to work with throughout the due diligence and legal process. Neither are strangers to football in this part of the world and I am confident they will bring immense value to Larne FC in the years ahead, with their drive and professional experience."
Giannotti added on behalf of Redball Global FC: "We want to thank Kenny for all of his dedication to Larne. The club is in a strong position because of him, and his investments in infrastructure. It’s very exciting to join a club with a great community, a great ground, great partners, and more. Together I expect glorious days ahead."
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