49ers Bring NFL Muscle to Scotland: Rangers Undergo $25M American Takeover

San Francisco, CA – May 31, 2025

In a move that could redefine the power dynamics of Scottish football, the San Francisco 49ers’ investment arm has officially taken the reins of Rangers Football Club. The $25 million acquisition — led by businessman Andrew Cavenagh and backed by 49ers Enterprises — signals not only a new era at Ibrox but a transatlantic shift in how tradition-rich clubs embrace modern sports enterprise.

Rangers, one of Europe’s most storied football institutions, now finds itself under the partial ownership of a group that also controls English side Leeds United and is deeply embedded in NFL operations. “Grateful is an understatement,” Cavenagh said in a brief statement after the deal was finalized. “We believe Rangers can once again become a dominant force, not just in Scotland but on the continental stage.”

The takeover includes a direct cash injection of approximately £20 million ($25 million), earmarked for rebuilding both on and off the pitch. With the departure of manager Philippe Clement in February and financial uncertainty lingering in recent seasons, fans have been hungry for a revival. The group is expected to stabilize the books and invest in infrastructure and player development — all while leveraging the data and performance strategies that helped build the 49ers into an NFL powerhouse.

Paraag Marathe, President of 49ers Enterprises and the architect behind Leeds United’s resurgence, will serve as vice chairman at Rangers. His experience in bridging American business models with the demands of football purists is seen as key. “This isn’t just about money,” Marathe once said when discussing sports ownership. “It’s about culture, legacy, and building sustainable success.”

The club has already appointed Kevin Thelwell, formerly of Everton, as its new sporting director. Meanwhile, rumors swirl about rising managerial candidates like Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin — fresh faces who could embody a forward-thinking approach that matches the ambition of the new ownership.

While Celtic remains the dominant force domestically, Rangers’ fan base now has reason to believe a real challenge is coming. With deep pockets, NFL-level analytics, and a bold leadership group, Rangers may no longer be playing just for second place.

As Ibrox enters this new chapter, the message is clear: the American era in Scottish football has officially arrived — and it’s wearing red and gold beneath the blue.