Everton Football Club has announced that American billionaire Christopher Sarofim has joined its ownership group, Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited. Sarofim, chairman of the global investment manager Fayez Sarofim & Co., brings nearly four decades of experience in investment, fund management, and philanthropy. His addition is part of The Friedkin Group’s strategy to reinforce the club through targeted investors with valuable skills and contacts.
Sarofim will serve as an observer on Everton’s board, providing strategic insight as the club continues its transformation under The Friedkin Group’s leadership. His investment will go into Roundhouse Capital rather than directly into Everton, aiming to broaden the club’s access to funding.
Sarofim is also a minority shareholder in the NFL’s Houston Texans, adding a layer of sports investment experience to his profile. His personal wealth is reported to be more than $3.7 billion.
This move aligns with The Friedkin Group’s broader strategy to reinforce Everton through targeted investors with valuable skills and contacts, rather than celebrity investors. Since acquiring Everton from Farhad Moshiri in December, The Friedkin Group has made several key changes, including appointing David Moyes as manager and hiring Angus Kinnear as CEO starting this summer. They have also refinanced £350 million for the new stadium and significantly reduced the club’s debt.
Sarofim expressed his enthusiasm about joining Everton, stating, “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to join the ownership group of Everton – an historic sporting institution with a very exciting future.” He added, “I have known and admired the Friedkin family for many years and I look forward to working with Marc Watts, The Friedkin Group, and everyone at Everton to help the club fulfil its huge potential on and off the pitch.”
As Everton continues its transformation under The Friedkin Group’s leadership, Sarofim’s addition is expected to bring experience and strategic insight, further strengthening the club’s financial base and governance.
