LEEDS UNITED: Club Chairman Paraag Marathe was dismissed earlier today by majority owner 49ers Enterprises
In a surprising move that sent shockwaves through English football, Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe was relieved of his duties earlier today by majority ownership group 49ers Enterprises. The decision, confirmed in a brief but pointed statement released by the club, marks a dramatic turn in the club’s ongoing efforts to return to Premier League prominence.
Marathe, who had served as chairman since the 49ers Enterprises completed their full takeover of Leeds United in the summer of 2023, had been a central figure in shaping the club’s vision both on and off the pitch. His departure comes at a time when the club is in the midst of a tense promotion race in the EFL Championship, battling to regain a spot in the top flight after a disappointing relegation just two seasons ago.
“Leeds United can confirm that Paraag Marathe has been relieved of his duties as chairman with immediate effect,” read the club’s official statement. “We thank Paraag for his service and leadership during a time of significant transition and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Further announcements regarding the club’s executive structure will be made in due course.”
Though the statement offered no specific reason for the dismissal, sources close to the situation suggest tensions had been building between Marathe and the American ownership group regarding the club’s long-term direction, recruitment strategy, and financial management. Insiders also indicate that recent disagreements over managerial appointments and squad investment ahead of the crucial run-in may have accelerated the decision.
Marathe, who also holds a senior role with the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL, was initially brought into the Leeds United fold in 2018 when the 49ers first acquired a minority stake. Known for his business acumen and cross-sport expertise, he played a key role in increasing Leeds’ commercial visibility and modernizing its operational structure. His tenure, however, has not been without controversy.
Critics have pointed to inconsistent results on the pitch, a lack of clear identity in the club’s playing style, and the high turnover of head coaches in recent seasons. Leeds’ failure to retain Premier League status in the 2022–23 season, followed by another campaign spent outside the top tier, added pressure to the boardroom leadership, culminating in today’s dramatic announcement.
Reaction among fans has been mixed. While some supporters expressed relief, hoping the change signals a stronger push toward promotion and stability, others voiced concern about upheaval at such a crucial point in the season. “This isn’t the time to be shaking things up at the top,” wrote one fan on social media. “We need unity and focus, not boardroom drama.”
With Marathe’s departure, questions now loom about who will take the reins at Elland Road. The 49ers Enterprises are expected to announce an interim chairman or potentially restructure leadership responsibilities among current executives. Among rumored names in line for leadership roles are Angus Kinnear, the club’s CEO, and Peter Lowy, a board member with deep ties to both football and global business.
What remains clear is that Leeds United’s ownership is determined to course-correct and accelerate their return to the Premier League. With the financial pressure of prolonged Championship football mounting and fan expectations intensifying, decisive action at the top was perhaps inevitable.
As the club navigates the final stretch of the season, all eyes will now turn to how this shakeup impacts performance on the pitch. Leeds fans will be hoping that the next chapter brings greater clarity, smarter decisions, and most importantly, a return to the heights of English football.
