MK Dons Sold to Kuwait-based Consortium: A New Era Begins

Milton Keynes Dons: A New Era Begins

Pete Winkelman has officially sold MK Dons and the Stadium MK Group to a Kuwait-based consortium led by Fahad Al Ghanim, marking the end of his 20-year connection with the football club. This transaction leaves the club and its stadium group debt-free, having been ratified by all involved after receiving clearance from the English Football League (EFL).

A Landmark Moment for MK Dons

The MK Dons will kick off their League Two campaign against Bradford City at Stadium MK this Saturday, live on Sky Sports+. As part of the celebrations, Winkelman is scheduled to bid farewell to the club that he helped shape since its establishment.

Pete Winkelman's Journey with MK Dons

Winkelman was instrumental in the club's formation, having bought out Wimbledon in 2004 as part of a consortium. Since then, he has proudly served as the club's chair and witnessed the highs and lows that the team has experienced over the years.

Winkelman's Message to Fans

In a heartfelt message to MK Dons supporters, Winkelman reflected on the significant journey taken throughout the club's two decades: "MK Dons are 20 years old this year and throughout that time we've been on a rollercoaster of highs and lows that we have all come through together."

He expressed pride in the accomplishments at Stadium MK, emphasizing the need for separate and crucial investment to take the football club to new heights: "...I have been able to spend time with Fahad and he has convinced me that he brings the passion, determination, and ambition to see the club participate at the highest level and has the resources to help it do so."

Fahad Al Ghanim Takes the Helm

The reins of the club and stadium group have now been passed to Fahad Al Ghanim, a businessman with extensive experience in various sectors, including banking, investment, automotive, and real estate. He has a personal stake in football, as his family owns Kuwait SC, a prominent football club in the Middle East.

Al Ghanim's Vision for MK Dons

In his inaugural statement as chairman, Al Ghanim reassured fans, stating, "...my ambition is to build on the fantastic foundations already here in Milton Keynes, and to take MK Dons to the next level, both on the pitch and off it." He emphasized that the short-term plans include preserving the existing structure of the business and focusing on strengthening the first-team squad.

Looking Forward

Al Ghanim's intent to maintain continuity is clear: "No one will be made redundant, and the structure of the business will fundamentally remain the same. Our first focus will be on strengthening the first-team squad to give the club the best chance of promotion this season." Moreover, he plans to assess the club's operations in the coming months, ensuring that any changes contribute positively to the club's future.

Engage with the Community

As the MK Dons supporters step into this new chapter, Al Ghanim invites them to lend their support: "...I know this new era will represent change, but it can only be successful with your support, so I ask all of you to stand behind the club as we enter an exciting new season this weekend!"

Watch MK Dons on Sky Sports

Fans can catch the MK Dons in action throughout the season, with at least 20 matches available on Sky Sports. The Sky Sports app allows fans to stream games live, providing flexibility for those eager to follow their team closely.

With pivotal changes unfolding, the future looks bright for MK Dons under new stewardship. The commitment to fostering growth while honoring past accomplishments paves the way for an exciting new chapter in the club's history.