AS Monaco sale 'put on ice', Prince Albert II reveals
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In January of this year, it was revealed that AS Monaco owner Dmitry Rybolovlev, following unsolicited interest, was open to selling the club. Initially reported by Les Échos, Get French Football News confirmed the information, with a statement from a representative of Rybolovlev's family office reading as follows:
The majority shareholder of AS Monaco (the "Club") has decided to commence a process to explore strategic alternatives for its stake in the Club after receiving unsolicited inbound interest. The majority shareholder has retained The Raine Group ("Raine") to serve as its exclusive financial advisor on this matter. Raine has significant experience working with the world's biggest football clubs on a range of assignments. There can be no assurances that the strategic review will result in any transaction involving the Club and we do not intend to make any further announcements regarding the strategic review at this time.
Since, there has been no official news of a sale, although the topic is not taboo. When questioned on the matter, Monaco’s CEO Thiago Scuro has broached the topic. “The process is ongoing, nothing concrete has been announced or has happened,” was Scuro’s latest update, which came in an exclusive interview with Get French Football News.
The Principality itself holds a minority 33% share in the football club, making Prince Albert II a minority shareholder. Speaking to Nice-Matin, he provided an update on the situation. “We are still waiting to see what Mr Rybolovlev wants to do. Is he looking for a new investor? Does he want to sell? For now, I think he has put his decision on ice and is concentrating on the ongoing season,” he said.
The Principality, regardless of the outcome, are reportedly unwavering in their assertion that they will retain their share in the club. Who will have the other 66% remains, in the long term, unclear. For now, it is Rybolovlev who looks set to retain control of the club. The Russian, more present than ever at Les Monégasques’ fixtures, remains fully committed while the process is ongoing.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
