Off the PitchDaily Mail FootballUnverified source· 10 Aug 2026
Derby County's Saudi takeover collapses at the last hurdle
Derby County's proposed Saudi takeover has dramatically collapsed despite regulatory approval.
Derby
team
Who
Lion Sport, headed by Turki Alalshikh
What
Pulled out of takeover deal
When
Announced Monday, 10 August 2026
Where
Derby County FC
What happened. Derby County's proposed Saudi takeover by Lion Sport has collapsed after the investors pulled out, despite approval from the Football Regulator and EFL. The club is now off the market.
- Lion Sport had received approval from the Independent Football Regulator and EFL last week.
- The club confirmed the news in a statement on X.
- Derby County will continue under Clowes Developments' support.
“The club can confirm discussions with Lion Sport to buy a controlling interest in Derby County will no longer proceed.”
— Derby County statement
Derby County now prepares for the new EFL season against Charlton Athletic on Saturday.
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