Former San Diego Padres Executive Ron Fowler Set to Take Control of Lincoln City

Former San Diego Padres executive chairman and co-owner Ron Fowler is set to take a controlling stake in Lincoln City, subject to approval from the English Football League.

Fowler, who first bought a minority share in the League One club in April 2024, is now poised to replace Arizona-based investor Harvey Jabara as majority shareholder after Lincoln’s board approved a proposal for him to increase his holding beyond 25 per cent through his company, Liquid Investments.

The move, agreed by the club’s board on 11 December, would see Fowler assume the role of chairman at the LNER Stadium and take responsibility for funding the club in the immediate future. His son, Andrew Fowler, is also involved in the club’s ownership structure.

The proposed ownership change was referenced as a “future development” in Lincoln City’s annual accounts for the 12 months to June 2025. In those accounts, the club confirmed that any acquisition of 25 per cent or more is considered a transfer of control under EFL regulations and therefore requires league approval and proof of adequate funding.

Lincoln, who are currently second in League One, reported a loss of just under £2.9m for the 2024-25 season, an improvement on the previous year. Turnover reached a club-record £8.5m, while shareholders injected £3.6m into the club during the campaign. Funding already earmarked by Fowler is expected to be used on a range of projects at the LNER Stadium.

Fowler made his fortune in the US beverage industry and turned his attention to English football after stepping away from his involvement with the Padres in March 2022, having previously handed over control of the Major League Baseball franchise while remaining as vice-chairman.