Soccer-Southampton owner Sport Republic acquire controlling stake in Turkish club Goztepe

Sport Republic, the owner of Premier League club Southampton, has become the first foreign investor in Turkish soccer after purchasing a 70% shareholding of second-tier club Goztepe, the London-based investment firm said on Friday.

The Sports Republic, the owner of Premier League club Southampton, has become the first foreign investor in Turkish soccer after purchasing a 70% shareholding of second-tier club Goztepe, the London-based investment firm said on Friday. The existing shareholders of Goztepe will retain a 30% stake in the club, which was relegated from the top flight last season.

Sports Republic is aiming to build a portfolio of high-influence stakes in soccer clubs, having bought Southampton in January by picking up an 80% stake in the club. "Being the first foreign investors in Turkish football comes with extra responsibilities and attention," said Rasmus Ankersen, CEO of the the Sports Republic and the newly appointed Chairman of Goztepe.

"We know it will not be without challenges, but we are committed to our long-term vision of fulfilling the potential of Goztepe."