By David Gold
October 7 – Football Federation Australia (FFA) has confirmed that the Indonesian Bakrie Group have bought a majority stake in the current A-League champions Brisbane Roar.
The FFA has been the temporary owner of the club while a new proprietor was found, and its chief executive Ben Buckley said: “We have been working extremely hard to find the right investors for last year’s premiers and we believe we have found fantastic new owners in the Bakrie Group.
“They have a strong background in football through ownership of several other clubs and their interests are in line with our outlook for the Roar.
“Our main priorities were to find investors that would not only provide the club with long term security but also give the club the best opportunity for continued success.
“It is an exciting time for football in Australia and shows the growing international recognition of the Hyundai A-League and its future growth prospects.”
Brisbane Roar went into administration days after claiming the league title, having remained unbeaten throughout the season, and Bakrie’s takeover will leave the FFA with a 30 per cent stake in the Roar.
The Pelita Jaya Cronus sporting arm of Bakrie will hold their share under a 10-year licence.
FIFA ethics committee member Dali Tahir will take over as club chairman.
Aga Bakrie, President of Pelita Jaya Cronus, said: “We are delighted, and honoured, to be the new owners of Brisbane Roar – an exceptional team and a successful club supported by a passionate community.
“This commitment is for the long term, and an opportunity to not only support the growth of football in Brisbane, but to also strengthen ties between Australia and Indonesia.
“We have a strong track record of investing in football and we will support the club as it seeks to grow.
“Our vision is to make Brisbane Roar Australia’s most successful professional football club.”
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