14-07-2025
Cobh Ramblers acquired by Digital Athlete Ventures
Cobh Ramblers are under new ownership once again, following US-based group Digital Athlete Ventures taking a 90% stake in the club.
This comes after the dissolution of FC32, which took control of the First Division side in October 2024.
The multinational group spent big last winter and built a squad that is now second in the table to Dundalk under Mick McDermott, who was signed from Glentoran last December.
FC32 planned to build a network of clubs and this fell apart following the acquisition of Spezia Calcio.
SKN St Polten, the Austrian side, suffered the most as their funding was cut off immediately, while Cobh were forced to release a statement that distanced themselves from the organisation's issues.
Cobh have been searching for investment since and their saviours are US-based Digital Athlete Ventures.
The organisation is led by lya Movshovich and Pedro Lombardo of JPX Investments and Bryant Clark, a founder of Texas-based Fifty Five South Ventures.
The news was communicated in a press release by the club on Monday, which said the goal of the takeover was long-term stability.
Cobh Ramblers chairman Bill O'Leary is thrilled to have the takeover over the line.
"After months of hard work, the board is proud to announce this investment partnership," he said.
"In a highly competitive landscape, securing a deal of this calibre reflects our commitment to the club's future.
"What set DAV apart was not just their financial backing, but their operational capabilities and respect for the club's legacy and community.
"Ilya and Pedro have been a pleasure to work with, and we're excited to move forward together."
Jim Farrell, a board member at Cobh Ramblers, added: "A massive thank you to our volunteer board and all the other dedicated volunteers.
"Your efforts in recent months, along with DAV's support, and guidance from Eric and Alex has been crucial in securing the club's long-term future."
Ramblers are just four points behind leaders Dundalk in the table.
The club are also the holders of the Munster Senior Cup after their victory over Rockmount in the final in May.
The Cork side will open their FAI Cup campaign this weekend with a game against non-league side Bangor Celtic in Dublin.
