Roger Hampel
Photo Credit: Hellas Verona
Hellas Verona FC has been acquired by Presidio Investors, a private equity firm based in Austin, Texas. The deal sees Presidio taking 100% ownership of the Serie A club, marking the continuation of North American investment in Italian football.
Leadership Changes and Strategic Vision
Under the new ownership, Hellas Verona will be guided by a newly established board of directors, featuring experienced professionals from the global sports industry. Italo Zanzi, former CEO of AS Roma and a seasoned sports executive, will serve as Executive Chairman. Maurizio Setti, the outgoing president who has led the club for the past 13 years, will remain involved as Senior Advisor of Football Operations, working closely with the Sporting Director, Sean Sogliano, and the football staff.
Other notable additions to the club’s leadership include Simona Gioè, who will retain a senior leadership role, and global executives Gennaro Leo and Sean Foley.
Presidio’s Ambitions for Hellas Verona Presidio Investors Hellas Verona FC
Christian Puscasiu, Managing Partner of Presidio Investors, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, emphasizing their commitment to preserving the club’s legacy while aiming to enhance its competitive standing. Puscasiu stated, “This milestone marks an exciting beginning for our work with Hellas Verona. We aim to build upon the strong foundation established by Maurizio Setti and his team, focusing on a growth strategy that reflects the club’s importance to Verona and its people.”
Setti Reflects on His Tenure
Maurizio Setti, reflecting on his 13-year tenure as club president, highlighted the club’s remarkable achievements, from promotion to Serie A in his first season to last year’s successful fight against relegation. “This is the start of a new chapter for Hellas Verona and Verona itself,” Setti remarked. “I am confident that Presidio Investors will provide a promising future for the club, and I am proud to remain part of this journey in my new role.”
Financial and Legal Aspects
The transaction was supported by a network of advisors:
• Presidio Investors: Assisted by Hogan Lovells, which provided legal counsel, and Deloitte Sports Business Group, which offered financial, tax, and commercial due diligence advisory services.
• Star Ball (Maurizio Setti): Advised by Deutsche Bank on financial matters and Unilegal Avvocati Associati on legal aspects.
A Growing Trend in Serie A
The acquisition of Hellas Verona makes it the ninth Serie A club to come under North American ownership. This trend reflects increasing international interest in Italian football, driven by its global fan base and opportunities for growth.
Hellas Verona, known for its 1985 Serie A title under Osvaldo Bagnoli, now embarks on a new phase with ambitions to strengthen its presence in Italy’s top league and continue its legacy in the city of Verona.
About Presidio Investors
Founded in 2007, Presidio Investors specializes in partnering with niche businesses in media, entertainment, technology, and financial services. With a proven track record across North America and Europe, the firm brings expertise and strategic direction to its portfolio companies.
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