D.C. United announced on Tuesday that an entity controlled by current United Co-Chairman and CEO Jason Levien has completed the acquisition of Erick Thohir's ownership interest in the organization.
Levien will remain in his leadership role and will make an additional investment in the club. He is joined by incoming D.C. United Co-Chairman Stephen Kaplan, as well as several other new investors.
"I am deeply appreciative to Steve for our longstanding partnership and for now joining with me at this exciting time in the organization's trajectory. I am confident that this ownership group will bring substantial value to our D.C. United family and its growing fanbase," Levien said in a statement. "I want to thank Erick Thohir and his family for years of wonderful partnership. Erick's unwavering support led to us achieving what many thought was impossible - the building of a new home for soccer in DC, Audi Field. I will forever be grateful for his friendship and commitment to this project."
Thorir was introduced along with Levien as D.C. United managing general partner on July 10, 2012. He is an Indonesian entrepreneur and sports investor who also is the chairman of Inter Milan.
"It has been an honor to have been a part of D.C. United during such a critical time for the club, to have supported the efforts to build Audi Field, and to have such a close partner in Jason," said Thorir. "I am confident with the organization in the hands of Jason Levien and his new partners. I look forward to supporting D.C. United as it thrives in the years ahead."
In addition to Kaplan, new incoming co-owners and advisory board members are Al Tylis, Ed Shapiro, Robert Hernreich, Romie Chaudhari and Daniel Gilbert.
"I am looking forward to getting to work with Jason and our partners to bolster this organization," said Kaplan. "With, Audi Field, our magnificent home in the heart of the District, our goal is for glory on the pitch and to be a powerful positive force in the community."
