Crawley Town Takeover Confirmed

Crawley Town have entered a new chapter following a majority takeover by KB Sports and Leisure, just 11 days after former co-owner Preston Johnson stepped down in protest at the club's summer recruitment strategy.

The League Two club confirmed that Raphael Khalili's KB Sports has acquired controlling interest from previous owners WAGMI United LLC, bringing an end to the US cryptocurrency investors’ two-year spell in charge.

Khalili will be joined on the club’s board by Daniel Khalili, Ryan Gilbert and Maxwell Strongman—­described in a club statement as a group with “extensive experience in commercial strategy, professional sports, financial services and governance.”

Tom Allman has been appointed chief executive officer, replacing Johnson, who had previously served in the role while also acting as co-owner and co-chairman. Allman was formerly Crawley's general manager.

The takeover follows a turbulent period for the club. Despite being promoted to League One in the 2023–24 season, Crawley were relegated the following campaign. Johnson, one of the key figures behind the club’s data-led approach to football operations, departed earlier this month, citing major differences in direction.

“They have a different vision of the future,” Johnson said at the time, voicing concern that the club was drifting away from the analytics-based model that underpinned its success.

In response, Crawley stated that data would remain a key pillar in the club’s decision-making, though “alongside other critical considerations.”

KB Sports has promised a new era of “sustainable growth, fan engagement, and competitive ambition.” In his first public statement, new chairman Raphael Khalili highlighted the club's strong local identity.

“This club has an incredibly loyal fanbase and a rich identity,” he said. “We’re committed to building something truly special—­something sustainable, ambitious, and rooted in the community.”

Khalili, who had previously held a minority stake under WAGMI, said work is already underway to upgrade Broadfield Stadium, improve training facilities, and shape a long-term operational strategy based on performance, sustainability, and innovation.

He also confirmed he played a part in the reappointment of manager Scott Lindsey in March, underlining the new board’s commitment to stability and leadership.

Lindsey expressed his optimism about the club’s direction:

“There’s a real sense of excitement and direction around the club,” he said. “Raphael and the new board understand what Crawley Town represents—and what it can become. With their backing and vision, we’ve got everything we need to keep progressing.”