- Owner Andrea Radrizzani approved Leeds Supporters’ trust application
- Radrizzani spent around £20million buying Elland Road back in 2004
- Now stadium can only be sold for footballing reasons, safeguarding ground
Leeds United have secured their long-term future at Elland Road after more than a decade of uncertainty.
Owner Andrea Radrizzani has approved the Leeds United Supporters’ Trust’s application to stamp the stadium as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).
The move means Elland Road cannot be sold for non-footballing reasons, safeguarding their home for years to come.
Leeds United will remain at Elland Road after safeguarding the future of the club
The ground cannot be sold for non-footballing reasons, strengthening the position of the club
Radrizzani spent in the region of £20million buying the ground back after Leeds were forced into a sale amid financial crisis in 2004.
The Championship side had been paying around £1.7m in annual rent to Manchester property developer Jacob Adler.
Leeds have joined the likes of Manchester United, Blackburn Rovers and Birmingham City in being granted an ACV.
Radrizzani’s willingness to support the cause is unusual, with supporters of other clubs left at odds with their owners over similar proposals.
Trust chairman Dave Carrington said: ‘This is a very proud moment for Leeds fans everywhere. Andrea Radrizzani has again shown that he recognises the importance of working in partnership with fans and the local community.’
Leeds chief executive Angus Kinnear added: ‘Elland Road is historic and has been at the heart of the community in Leeds since before the football club was founded.
‘We congratulate the Supporters’ Trust for their hard work and dedication throughout this process.’