Multi-club ownership group Mercury13 have today announce their acquisition of a significant stake in Bristol City Women.
Founded and led by Victoire Cogevina Reynal and Mario Malavé, the group are investing in a portfolio of women’s clubs with the aim to help them develop on the field and drive investment off it. Bristol City have become their second European investment after they took over Serie A side FC Como in 2024. Their ambition is to “redefine” the landscape of the women’s game through strategic investment, competitive ambition and fan-focused growth.” The completion of the deal is subject to league approval.
Bristol City currently compete in the Barclays WSL 2 with Charlotte Healy at the helm. Current owner Stephen Lansdown CBE has invested significant sums into both the men’s and women’s sides of the club and the Landsown family will retain a minority share.
“My family and I have watched and supported the women’s team for nearly two decades,” Lansdown said. “From the early days when they competed as Bristol Academy and were transitioning from amateur to semi-pro and playing at SGS College, to our decision to fully fund and integrate the club into Bristol City as a whole, with the move to the Robins High Performance Centre and supporting them into the professional era as part of our sporting group.”
“The growth in women’s football is astounding,” he continued. “We have always said we would look at investment if it was the right partner at the right time, and I believe now is that time for City Women. Mercury13’s ambition for women’s football matches our own; their dedicated investment and focus on women’s football will accelerate Bristol City Women’s growth and I look forward to seeing what the club can achieve in the years to come.”
The Robins will continue to play their home games at Ashton Gate and to train at the Robins High Performance Centre as they try to gain promotion back to the Barclays WSL. Investment will continue into the Academy to ensure and develop the pathway from the youth side to the first team.
“Bristol City Women represents everything we look for in a club: a rich history, a track record of performance, world-class infrastructure, and incredibly loyal supporters,” Malavé said. “Our entry into the English football pyramid is a major milestone for Mercury13, and one we approach with deep respect and responsibility. We’re honored by the Lansdown family’s trust and are committed to building something special alongside the Bristol community.”
