COBH Ramblers are under new ownership after the US-based Digital Athlete Ventures (DAV) purchased a 90 percent stake in the First Division club.
The Florida-based investment group have made their first move into football with Ramblers but have plans to build a multi-club portfolio.
The announcement comes just four days after Ramblers confirmed FC32 – who acquired the club last November – were no longer involved in the club.
But talks with DAV were ongoing for some time with the Florida-based group financially supporting the club it parted company with FC32.
A statement read: “This agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Cobh Ramblers FC, centred on long-term sustainability and growth.
“DAV supported the club financially during the transaction process while conducting comprehensive due diligence and collaborating closely with club leadership to shape a shared vision.
“DAV brings deep expertise across performance innovation, fan engagement, and football operations, which aligns closely with the club’s values and future ambitions.
“Both Cobh Ramblers FC and Digital Athlete Ventures are committed to building a stable foundation for the club’s future, with the local community at the heart of their vision.
“Preserving the identity and heritage of the club, while fostering new opportunities for growth and engagement, will be central to this partnership.
“The new ownership group has made clear that community inclusion, transparency, and long-term stewardship will guide their approach from day one.”
The new owners will visit Ireland next week to outline their plans for what is their first foray into football, though the group has extensive investment and entrepreneurial experience.
The group is led by Ilya Movshovich, Pedro Lombardo (Managing Partner at JPX Investments), and Bryant Clark (Founder of Texas-based Fifty Five South Ventures).
DAV are also investors in motorsports with singer Marc Anthony’s outfit Team Miami, while they recently brought in Alexander Jarvis of Blackbridge Sports as an advisor.
Jarvis has previously brokered ownership deals including US-based Lenore purchasing a stake in Benfica.
And he announced on LinkedIn that his role with DAV is to “build out a multi-club business.”
DAV Co-lead investor Movshovich, said: “Our commitment to Cobh is long-term – we’re here to provide real stability and help the club grow in a sustainable, purposeful way, both on the pitch and behind the scenes.”
Cobh Ramblers chairperson Bill O’Leary added: “After months of hard work, the Board is proud to announce this investment partnership.
“In a highly competitive landscape, securing a deal of this calibre reflects our commitment to the club’s future.
“What set DAV apart was not just their financial backing, but their operational capabilities and respect for the club’s legacy and community.
“Ilya and Pedro have been a pleasure to work with, and we’re excited to move forward together.”
