Hartlepool United Takeover Completed as American Investor Landon Smith Buys National League Club

Hartlepool United’s long-awaited takeover has been completed, with American real estate developer Landon Smith acquiring full control of the National League club.

The deal was confirmed on 31 December, almost three years after the club was first placed on the market by former owner Raj Singh. In a statement, Hartlepool said Smith had taken over with immediate effect, describing the change of ownership as the start of “a significant new chapter” in the club’s history.

Smith is a co-founder and principal partner of Minnesota-based real estate company Tailwind Group. He said he had identified strong potential at Victoria Park and plans to invest both on and off the pitch, with the aim of restoring the club to the English Football League while improving long-term financial sustainability.

“Having looked at several National League and EFL clubs, it was clear to see the potential with Pools, including the benefit of the foundation work that has been put in under the current owner’s tenure,” Smith said. “I’m looking forward to building on that, and I’m fully committed to investing in the club for what I hope will be a very exciting future.”

Singh departs after nearly eight years as owner, having overseen promotion back to the EFL in 2021 before the club suffered relegation back to non-league football two seasons later. That drop prompted Singh to put Hartlepool up for sale, though the prolonged process caused frustration among supporters.

The drawn-out negotiations also led Singh to step down as chairman in March following personal abuse, while club president Jeff Stelling resigned in May amid concerns over how potential buyers were handled.

“The search for a suitable owner has taken far longer than I ever imagined, and at various points I questioned whether I should continue,” Singh said. “Landon comes with an enthusiasm, skill sets and financial backing that should serve the club well in its next chapter, and I would urge all supporters to get behind him, but also to be patient and sympathetic with plans and progress.”

Hartlepool now look ahead to life under new ownership as they aim to stabilise and push towards a return to the Football League.