US consortium led by PEAK6 complete Dundalk takeover

Dundalk have confirmed the complete takeover of the club to the American-based consortium led by PEAK6 Investments.

Former owners Paul Brown and Andy Connolly have relinquished full control of the club following the deal, which has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks.

Co-founded by both Matt Hulsizer and Jenny Just back in 1997, PEAK6 also possess a 25% stake in English Premier League outfit Bournemouth as well as interest in Italian Serie A giants AS Roma.

“We’ve been following the incredible success of Dundalk FC over the past few seasons and have spent months assessing this opportunity, attending games and getting to know the club,” said PEAK6 spokesperson Jordan Gardner in an official statement issued by Dundalk on Thursday evening.

“What Stephen Kenny and the players have accomplished under the stewardship of Andy Connolly and Paul Brown is nothing short of remarkable.

“We are excited to take up the reins and help build on the club’s success. We are confident that with all of us working together there will be many more good days and nights ahead for Dundalk FC.”

Brown and Connolly took control of Dundalk from Gerry Matthews back in 2012 following a turbulent campaign on and off the pitch for the Lilywhites, who narrowly avoided relegation, and faced continuous financial problems that very nearly saw the club cease to exist.

Dundalk have never looked backed since the appointment of Stephen Kenny – who is contracted until 2020 – as manager shortly afterwards, having won three SSE Airtricity League titles, two EA Sports Cups and an FAI Cup, as well as reaching the group stages of the UEFA Europa League in 2016.

“We have always said that we would only step down if we found the right kind of owners for the club and in this consortium, we believe we have done that,” said Brown.

“We are confident that they will take Dundalk FC to even greater success in the coming years.”

It is understood that both Brown and Connolly will continue to assist the new owners, acting as honorary ambassadors, while former Sheffield United managing director Malachy Brannigan is expected to assume the role of CEO/MD at Oriel Park.