National League club Hartlepool United have announced a takeover by an American businessman.
The north east club are now owned by Landon Smith, who is described as "an American investor and co-founder of real estate company Tailwind Group".
Pools announced that Smith has "acquired a full controlling stake in Hartlepool United with immediate effect", adding that the news marks "a significant new chapter in the club’s history."
Smith has pledged to invest in and grow the club, which sits ninth in the National League.
His arrival ends the tenure of previous owner and chairman Raj Singh, whose reign has come in for plenty of criticism from supporters over recent years.
Singh, in a statement, said: “It has been a real privilege to act as custodian for Hartlepool United for nearly eight years, and I am incredibly proud to have played a small part in this great club’s journey.”
Hartlepool United can today confirm that a takeover of the Club has been completed.
Read more below.#HUFC
➡️ https://t.co/TLH7OpXNxm pic.twitter.com/sodGG9YXZo— Hartlepool United FC (@Official_HUFC) December 31, 2025
“I stepped in to help Hartlepool United when it was in a very difficult position, and ever since I have done my utmost to help.
“Overall, I do believe the club is in a better place than when I found it, which was always a fundamental aim."
Singh said new owner Smith has passed all the necessary change of ownership criteria, adding: “Landon comes with an enthusiasm, skill sets and financial backing that should serve the club well in its next chapter, and I would urge all supporters to get behind him, but also to be patient and sympathetic with plans and progress.”
Smith said he was "delighted and honoured" to take the helm at Victoria Park, adding: “Our immediate priority is to ensure a smooth transition period and to support the current staff and team with their endeavours this season. That work will start straight away.”
“Our longer-term vision is built around key cornerstones and guiding principles of: Returning to EFL, developing a full player and club pathway model, enhancing financial sustainability, including through commercial growth, enhancing engagement with supporters and community stakeholders, investment in facilities and people, respecting and protecting club heritage.
“In the coming weeks and months, we will set out more details around those investment priorities. I would ask supporters and partners to be patient as we will be undertaking a full review of operations ahead of planning for next season and beyond.”
Smith added that he had looked at "several" clubs in the EFL and National League but the Monkey Hangers' potential was "clear".
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