Talks about a possible deal have been continuing since the beginning of 2016. Finally, the deal has been sealed. Ian Blackhurst and Brian Kennedy, who were in charge of the club since 2000 will be now replaced by Simon Orange-led company CorpAcq Ltd as the new owners at the Sale Sharks.
The Sale Sharks have performed brilliantly over the last 16 years under Brian Kennedy’s ownership. After taking over in 2000, the duo helped the club build a squad that emerged victorious in the European Cup twice – first in 2002 and then in 2005.
During Kennedy’s tenure, the Sharks also won their maiden Premiership title. After finishing sixth last season, the Sale Sharks will play the Champions Cup rugby in 2016-17.
CorpAcq Ltd is an acquisitions and investment group based in Manchester. It intends to build on the club’s success so that the Sharks can achieve a top spot in the Premiership. Moreover, the company is looking to invest in the academy, which is one of the finest in the Premiership. Orange also said that they have plans of growing the Community Service Program of Sale Sharks.