Introduction
Necaxa, a Mexican football club, has made a remarkable comeback to the Liguilla (playoffs) after six years. This achievement, following four years under foreign ownership, highlights the positive impact of international investment and strategic communication on the team’s performance.
Foreign Investors and Their Influence
In summer 2021, Necaxa welcomed a group of prominent foreign investors, including Sam Porter, Al Tylis, Eva Longoria, Justin Verlander, Kate Upton, and Victor Oladipo. In 2024, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney joined the ownership group. Despite these new additions, the Tinajero family, original Mexican owners, still holds 51% of the team’s shares.
Director José Hanan on International Ownership
José Hanan, Necaxa’s director of sports, spoke about the relationship with foreign investors in an interview with El Economista. He described their involvement as fluid and constant, with regular updates on the team’s progress.
“We’re fortunate to have their trust in our work. Sam Porter and Al Tylis, who are our primary contacts, along with Eva Longoria, Ryan Reynolds, and Rob McElhenney, are all very engaged and supportive,” Hanan explained.
Impact of Foreign Investment
Currently, three Liga MX teams have foreign investment: Necaxa, Bravos, and Atlético de San Luis. Necaxa has a majority American capital investment, while Atlético de San Luis is backed by Spanish investors.
Necaxa’s Success Under Foreign Investment
Necaxa’s recent Liguilla appearance is a testament to the positive influence of foreign investment. The team’s unity, solidarity, and performance have improved significantly since the investors’ arrival.
Hanan’s Leadership and Investment Philosophy
Hanan, who joined Necaxa’s sports department in summer 2023, emphasized the importance of strategic investments. He highlighted that the team aims to maintain a large portion of its squad, focusing on creative and ambitious approaches rather than extravagant spending.
Necaxa’s Culture and Academy
Necaxa’s commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond its first team. The club operates over 250 schools and branches across Mexico, providing opportunities for young players to develop both professionally and personally.
Hanan on Necaxa’s Culture
According to Hanan, the club’s secret lies in its unified approach from top management to operational levels. This cohesive culture, fostered by the Tinajero family and American investors, has created an environment where players feel valued and supported.
Necaxa’s Quest for a Title
Despite not winning Liga MX since the Winter 1998 season, Necaxa remains determined to break its lengthy title drought. The current Liguilla appearance against Tigres represents both a significant challenge and renewed hope for fans who haven’t celebrated a first-division title in 27 years.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are Necaxa’s foreign investors? The investors include Sam Porter, Al Tylis, Eva Longoria, Justin Verlander, Kate Upton, Victor Oladipo, Ryan Reynolds, and Rob McElhenney.
- What percentage of Necaxa do the foreign investors own? The foreign investors hold 49% of Necaxa, while the Tinajero family retains 51%.
- What is Necaxa’s investment philosophy? Necaxa prioritizes maintaining a large portion of its squad, focusing on creative and ambitious approaches rather than extravagant spending.
- How many schools and branches does Necaxa operate in Mexico? Necaxa manages over 250 schools and branches across the country.
- When was the last time Necaxa won Liga MX? Necaxa last won Liga MX during the Winter 1998 season.
