Texan Billionaire Bill Foley Invests in A-League’s Auckland FC Amidst Political Controversies

Bill Foley, a prominent Texan billionaire known for his avid support of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has recently shifted his investment focus from U.S. soccer to the A-League, with the inauguration of the Auckland FC in New Zealand. The club, nicknamed the “Black Knights,” makes its debut against Brisbane Roar at Mount Smart Stadium, with an anticipated crowd of 20,000.

Foley, aged 79 and having amassed his fortune in the insurance sector, is also a significant figure in the Republican party, contributing $255,600 to Trump’s initial presidential bid. Although his support waned following the January 6th events, Foley has reaffirmed his financial backing for Trump, voicing concerns over political alternatives.

Despite the political tensions, Foley’s investment in Auckland FC has generated excitement. A local group known as “Tamaki AFC,” identified as “de-colonial, anti-capitalist, and anti-fascist,” have announced plans to perform protest songs during the club’s inaugural match.

Foley’s involvement in the A-League marks a significant expansion of his sports empire, which includes ownership of the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights and the English Premier League team, AFC Bournemouth. In recent developments, Foley’s approach emphasizes allowing trusted personnel to handle operational aspects while he enjoys attending matches and interacting with players.

The launch of Auckland FC signals a new era for New Zealand’s soccer landscape. Alongside Wellington Phoenix, Auckland FC bolsters the professional presence in Oceania, facilitated by a direct World Cup qualification slot, enhancing the region’s soccer metrics.

Foley has invested heavily in assembling a competitive squad for Auckland FC. High-profile signings include Steve Corica as coach and players like Japanese international Hiroki Sakai and goalkeeper Alex Paulsen. With strategic support from local investors, such as NBA star Steven Adams and several former New Zealand internationals, the club aims for immediate success and long-term stability.

Nevertheless, Foley’s venture has encountered some financial setbacks, notably a significant reduction in expected distributions from the Australian Professional Leagues. However, Foley expressed confidence in overcoming these challenges, citing strong initial funding and robust commercial engagements driven by CEO Nick Becker.

Foley has chosen the A-League over Major League Soccer (MLS) due to the latter’s high financial barriers, including expensive franchise fees and stadium requirements. He plans to integrate Auckland FC into his broader multi-club ownership strategy, dubbed Black Knight Sports & Entertainment, named after his alma mater’s teams at the US Military Academy in West Point.

The debut of Auckland FC signifies Foley’s ambitious move to expand his influence in the sports industry, while simultaneously navigating complex political and social landscapes.