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Venezia Closes €100 Million Deal as Leiweke and Bodie Join Club Leadership

Introductions by co-owner Drake brought veteran sports dealmakers to Venice.

Canadian rapper Drake watches the third round match of Serena WIlliams of the U.S. and Zheng Jie of China during the Rogers Cup women's tennis tournament in Toronto August 11, 2011.    REUTERS/Mark Blinch/File Photo

Overview

  • Venezia, in a Thursday announcement, confirmed a €100 million minority investment led by Tim Leiweke and Francesca Bodie that makes their vehicle the club’s largest outside shareholder.
  • Leiweke was named co-chair of the club’s operating committee alongside Rob Hamwee, and Bodie was appointed president as Duncan Niederauer steps down and keeps a small stake.
  • Drake, an investor since 2024, connected Leiweke and Bodie to the club through relationships formed at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.
  • The operating committee said the funds will stabilize finances and back long-planned infrastructure, including a proposed new stadium at the Bosco dello Sport site.
  • Venezia sealed promotion last week with a 2-2 draw at Spezia, and the club frames this capital as support to compete and stay in Serie A next season.