### New York Jets Owner Woody Johnson Acquires Stake in Crystal Palace, Boosting Club's European Aspirations - Woody Johnson, the co-owner of the NFL's New York Jets, has finalized a deal to purchase a **43% stake** in the Premier League club Crystal Palace from American businessman John Textor for **£190 million**. This acquisition comes at a pivotal moment for Crystal Palace, as the club has recently qualified for the **Europa League** for the first time after winning the FA Cup [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-14837703/John-Textor-Crystal-Palace-Woody-Johnson-Europa-League.html][https://apnews.com/article/woody-johnson-jets-crystal-palace-2f4f045a9bbcadc8353b89a33506c148]. ### Breakdown of the Acquisition and Its Implications 1. **Details of the Deal**: - Johnson's purchase involves a **43% stake** in Crystal Palace, valued at **£190 million** (approximately **$254 million**) [https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45567347/ny-jets-owner-woody-johnson-agrees-buy-crystal-palace-stake]. - The transaction is pending approval from the Premier League and Women's Super League, but no issues are anticipated [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/jets_owner_woody_johnson_buys_stake_in_crystal_palace_fc/s1_17049_42363962]. 2. **Impact on Crystal Palace**: - This investment is expected to enhance Crystal Palace's chances of competing in the **Europa League** next season, following their FA Cup victory [https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertolsen-1/2025/06/23/new-york-jets-billionaire-co-owner-buys-stake-in-crystal-palace-fc]. - The sale may also resolve potential conflicts regarding ownership rules, as Textor's Eagle Football Holdings has interests in both Crystal Palace and the French club Lyon [https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/crystal-palace-john-textor-woody-johnson-europa-league-b1234341.html]. 3. **Woody Johnson's Background**: - Johnson is a prominent figure in American sports, having previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom and is known for his close ties to former President Donald Trump [https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/crystal-palace-woody-johnson-trump-35437372]. - His involvement in English football marks a significant expansion of his investment portfolio beyond American sports [https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/soccer/jets-owner-woody-johnson-buy-crystal-palace-rcna214565]. ### Summary of Key Findings - **Acquisition Overview**: - Woody Johnson has acquired a **43% stake** in Crystal Palace for **£190 million**, enhancing the club's prospects in European competitions. - **Potential Benefits**: - The deal could facilitate Crystal Palace's participation in the **Europa League**, following their recent FA Cup success. - **Johnson's Influence**: - As a seasoned investor in sports, Johnson's entry into English football could bring new opportunities and resources to Crystal Palace. 1. **Deal Finalization**: Johnson's purchase is legally binding and awaits regulatory approval. 2. **Club's Future**: The acquisition is poised to strengthen Crystal Palace's competitive edge in Europe. 3. **Investor Profile**: Johnson's background and connections may influence the club's strategic direction moving forward. This acquisition represents a significant shift in the ownership landscape of Crystal Palace, potentially leading to a more competitive future in both domestic and European football [https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/new-york-jets-co-owner-johnson-buys-stake-crystal-palace-2025-06-23].