23year old Kyril Louis-Dreyfus becomes Sunderland chairman

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, 23, has become the chairman of English club Sunderland AFC after the club received approval of the takeover from English Football League yesterday.

“Sunderland AFC today received approval from the English Football League for Kyril Louis-Dreyfus to acquire a controlling interest in the club, signalling the start of a new era on Wearside,” the club said in a statement.

“Louis-Dreyfus also becomes the club’s new Chairman with immediate effect, with Stewart Donald, Juan Sartori and Charlie Methven each retaining a minority shareholding.”

“I would like to thank Stewart, the Board of Directors and the EFL for their diligence and support throughout the recent process,” Louis-Dreyfus said after the takeover.

“I am proud to become a custodian of this esteemed institution, but I also recognise the significant responsibility that comes with it. Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter in Sunderland AFC’s history and although the current landscape facing football dictates that there are challenges to overcome, 

“I am confident that together we can weather the present storm and put solid foundations in place to bring sustainable and long-term success to the club.”

Kyril is the son of late Robert Louis-Dreyfus, CEO of Adidas (1994–2001) and a majority shareholder of Olympique de Marseille (1996–2016). He is the youngest owner of Sunderland.