By Jaroslaw Adamowski
September 10 – As part of the Chinese group’s expansion into the Czech market, CEFC has signed a deal to acquire a 59.97% stake in Slavia Prague. The group says it is also working towards becoming a sponsor of the Czech national team.
“CEFC plans to support Czech football [at] club level, as well as …. [become] a partner of the national squad and youth football,” the group said in a statement.
The amount of the latest deal was not disclosed by Slavia.
Local company Fly Sport, owned by Czech businessman Jiri Simane, will keep a 39.97% stake in the club, Slavia said in a statement. The Prague-based side has been experiencing financial woes since 2010, and owes some CZK 112 million (€4.1 million) to its former owner, ENIC Sports Ltd.
Last year, Slavia secured betting operator Fortuna as its shirt sponsor under a three-year contract.
Established in 1892, Slavia competes in the Synot Liga, the top tier of the Czech professional football league. The club’s sports facility, Eden Arena, is fitted with a total seating capacity of 20,800.
Slavia’s latest achievements include securing the championship of the Czech Republic in 2008 and 2009.
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