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Novak Djokovic acquires stake in French club Le Mans; former F1 drivers Magnussen, Massa co-owners too

Novak Djokovic acquires stake in French club Le Mans; former F1 drivers Magnussen, Massa co-owners too

The Hindu3 days ago
Novak Djokovic became a part-owner of French Ligue 2 side Le Mans FC with former Formula 1 drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen also acquiring stakes, the club on Friday.
The investment is led by Brazilian group OutField, an international consortium co-founded by Pedro Olivera, and includes Georgios Frangulis, CEO of global health-food brand OakBerry.
'Djokovic, the most successful player in history, whose mental strength and unique approach will bring considerable added value,' the club said in a statement.
'Massa (15 seasons in Formula 1) and Magnussen (10 seasons), who will help create a bridge between football and motorsport – a distinctive strength of the Le Mans brand.'
'I think everyone knows my passion for football, which is leading me to take this step today. Le Mans FC has a strong connection with motorsport, and when my good friend and partner at Oakberry, Georgios Frangulis, presented the project to me, I wanted to be a part of it—especially alongside people I deeply respect, like Djokovic, who needs no introduction, and Magnussen, with whom I shared many years in Formula 1.
'It's undeniably a great opportunity, taking advantage of the momentum of French football, the reigning Champions League champion, which is currently attracting significant investment,' Massa said.
Le Mans begins its league 2 campaign on August 9 against Guingamp.
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