FA Investigates Swedish Investors in Burton Albion Football Club

The FA is investigating Swedish investors in Nordic Football Group over financial dealings with Burton Albion Football Club.

Key Points

  • • The FA investigates Nordic Football Group, which includes Swedish investors, over financial dealings with Burton Albion.
  • • Notable investors include H&M chairman Karl-Johan Persson and NHL players Erik Karlsson and Mats Zuccarello.
  • • The group set a British record by signing 23 players last summer during their acquisition of Burton Albion.
  • • Tom Mahon from Burton Albion stated the investigation won't hinder the club's operations.

The English Football Association (FA) is currently investigating Nordic Football Group (NFG), a consortium that includes several prominent Swedish investors, over their financial dealings related to the acquisition of Burton Albion Football Club. Among the notable figures in the NFG are Karl-Johan Persson, chairman of H&M, and NHL stars Erik Karlsson and Mats Zuccarello.

The NFG acquired Burton Albion in 2024 and made headlines by setting a British record for player signings, bringing in 23 new players in a single summer. The focus of the FA's investigation is on potential conflicts of interest associated with these player acquisitions. According to Tom Mahon, the operational chief of Burton Albion, the ongoing investigation pertains specifically to past financial conduct rather than present club operations. Mahon assured fans and stakeholders that the inquiry will not impede the club's operations, stating, "It has not stopped us in recruitment so far; we have had several players come in and several players leave."

Furthermore, Tom Davidson, a Swedish founder and the former CEO of NFG, resigned from the board in May after the club faced various financial and sporting setbacks. Despite these challenges, Burton Albion managed to secure its status in League One by a narrow margin, indicating resilience amidst the turmoil. Davidson reflected on the difficult year in a statement on the club's website, describing it as "intense, challenging, and tough," yet concluded on a positive note for the club’s future.