New York Jets Owner Set To Join Crystal Palace as Director Pending Premier League Approval.
New York Jets owner Woody Johnson is set to expand his sporting empire by entering the world of English football. The 78-year-old businessman has signed a legally binding agreement to acquire a 43% stake in Premier League side Crystal Palace for £190 million ($254 million).
The deal was reportedly finalized on Sunday evening in the U.S. However, it is now pending approval from the Premier League and the Women’s Super League. Johnson must also pass the league’s Owners’ and Directors’ Test. Johnson bought the NFL team Jets in 2000.
He also served as the U.S. ambassador to the UK from 2017 to 2021. The American businessman long expressed interest in purchasing an English football club. His arrival could prove pivotal for Palace. Especially considering the fact that they qualified for the UEFA Europa League 2025-26.
They sealed their places in the European competition after winning the FA Cup. Due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, the club risked exclusion from the tournament. This was due to the departing stakeholder John Textor’s links to French side Olympique Lyonnais, who are also Europa League-bound.
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Crystal Palace confirmed the news via their official channels, stating, “We do not envisage any issues and look forward to welcoming Woody as a partner and director of the club.” Textor, through his Eagle Football Holdings group, had held nearly 44.9% of the club since 2021, investing approximately £180 million.
However, tensions with executive chairman Steve Parish and fellow U.S. co-owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer hastened the sale. Textor has a multi-club ambitions. This includes him holding stakes in Brazil’s Botafogo and Belgium’s Daring Brussels, were reportedly at odds with Palace’s leadership.
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The sale not only satisfies UEFA concerns but also potentially clears the path for further changes. Harris and Blitzer, who together own 36%, are said to be open to selling. This is largely due to rising redevelopment costs at Selhurst Park. It is expected that the cost could reach £240 million.
Meanwhile, Textor is already considering new ventures. According to former Palace chairman Simon Jordan, he’s been encouraged to pursue struggling Championship side Sheffield Wednesday. He also showed interest in Everton and Watford in the past. As for Johnson, he would have to wait for Premier League confirmation.
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