Delia Smith Gives Up Control of Norwich City
- Delia Smith, a lifelong supporter of Norwich City FC, has sold her stake after 27 years.
- She had a controlling interest in the club before relinquishing control.
- This marks the end of an era for Delia and the football club.
TV presenter and chef Delia Smith has relinquished her controlling stake in Norwich City FC, marking the end of nearly three decades of involvement with the club. Smith, a devoted supporter since childhood, held the controlling interest for 27 years alongside her husband, Michael Wynn Jones. The transition of power comes as Norfolk Holdings, led by American businessman Mark Attanasio, assumes majority control after reaching an agreement with the couple. Norfolk Holdings will take on the club's significant debt, estimated at around £59 million, and will increase its shareholding to approximately 85 percent. Despite stepping back from control, Delia and Michael will retain a 10 percent stake in the club but will not receive any financial compensation for their relinquished shares. A club statement confirmed the agreement, expressing hope to finalize the transition before the annual general meeting scheduled for November 2024. Mark Attanasio, who initially acquired a 15.9 percent stake in September 2022, has been instrumental in this transition, increasing his shares to 40.4 percent by April. The club emphasized that the decision to partner with Norfolk Holdings was made to ensure the club's long-term financial stability and effective governance. Delia and Michael believe that Attanasio's group is well-positioned to be the next custodians of Norwich City. Delia Smith's journey with Norwich City began in 1997, following the club's relegation from the Premier League, which left it in financial distress. As lifelong supporters and season ticket holders, the couple's investment was a significant commitment to the club's future.