Official: Spezia majority ownership stake bought by US billionaire Repole

Official: Spezia majority ownership stake bought by US billionaire Repole American billionaire Mike Repole has officially acquired a majority ownership stake in Serie C club Spezia Calcio, joining forces with Tom Roberts. This is only the latest foreign investment in Italian football, as several sides are now under the guidance of figures from America, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates. Spezia announced the takeover with a formal statement this evening , confirming that Repole has entered into an agreement to become the new controlling owner. Former patron Roberts will also remain as a minority shareholder. New Spezia era under American investor ITALY – JUNE 1: General view during the Serie B match between Spezia Calcio and US Cremonese Serie B Play-off Final at Stadio Alberto Picco on June 1, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images) This club was founded in 1906 and went bankrupt several times, most recently in 2008, when forced to start again from the semi-pro Serie D level. Their last Serie A experience was in the 2022/23 campaign. They had been on the verge of promotion to the top flight in 2025, losing the promotion play-off final, but then crumbled last season and were relegated to Serie C. “Growing up in an Italian-American family in Queens, I was surrounded by the same pride, passion, loyalty and sense of community that I see in La Spezia,” said Repole in a statement. “Spezia is a Club with incredible history, tradition and passionate supporters, and that’s what makes this opportunity so special.” ITALY – JUNE 1: General view during the Serie B match between Spezia Calcio and US Cremonese Serie B Play-off Final at Stadio Alberto Picco on June 1, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images) The current President Charlie Stillitano will remain in place and welcomed the advent of this new era. According to Forbes, 57-year-old Repole has a personal wealth of circa $2.5 billion, thanks to cofounding sports drink BodyArmor in 2011, as well as Glaceau.