St James Holdings

Lore & Background

St James Holdings Limited was created by Mike Ashley to facilitate his acquisition of Newcastle United F.C. in 2007. On 23 May 2007, Ashley bought Sir John Hall's 41.6% stake for £55,342,223, triggering a formal takeover bid at 100p per share. By 15 June, St James Holdings had acquired slightly over 77% of the club, allowing Ashley to delist it from the London Stock Exchange on 18 July 2007. The company name was a direct reference to the club's stadium, St. James' Park.

Reader's Guide

St James Holdings Limited served as the corporate vehicle through which Mike Ashley executed his 2007 takeover of Newcastle United F.C. The company's existence was tied to Ashley's ownership of the club, which lasted from 2007 until 2021. During that period, the club experienced relegation and promotion, and Ashley attempted to sell the club multiple times before finally succeeding in 2021. The company's significance lies in its role as the holding entity for one of the most controversial and lengthy ownerships in English football history. The sale in 2021 to a consortium including the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia marked the end of Ashley's tenure and the company's purpose.

Did You Know?

• The company name was a reference to St. James' Park, the stadium of Newcastle United.
• St James Holdings acquired over 77% of Newcastle United by 15 June 2007.
• The company sold its holding in the club in 2021 to a consortium including PCP Capital Partners, Reuben Brothers, and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.
• Mike Ashley used St James Holdings to delist Newcastle United from the London Stock Exchange on 18 July 2007.