American businesswoman Michele Kang has added the London City Lionesses to her growing women's sport empire.
The Lionesses currently play in the Barclays Women's Championship, the second division of English football.
Kang also owns NWSL team Washington Spirit and French club Lyon.
Kang's quest "to build the preeminent female sports organisation in the world," as a statement released by the Lionesses reads, began in 2022 when she bought 2021 NWSL champs Washington Spirit for a then-record $35 million (€32.1m).
Early this year Kang acquired a 52% stake of Lyon women, which has been valued at €50 million.
Lionesses founder Diane Culligan, who began the team in 2019, thanked all involved with the team and said, "I am thrilled to be handing over the reins to Michele. Her leadership, drive and determination will continue to pave the way to achieving growth and sustainability in the women's game."
Kang thanked Culligan and said, "I see tremendous possibility in this team and look forward to helping the club and the players reach their highest potential."
She also remarked on the recently-announced move to NewCo, a new club-owned governance structure that will be independent from the FA, for the Barclays Women's Super League and Barclays Women's Championship.
"The NewCo model for BWSL and BWC is a great example of how women's sports will be uplifted in England and globally," said Kang. "We need more investment focused solely on the female game so that the resources are uncompromised."
"I want to inspire young female athletes to keep playing and see a future for themselves in the sport they love."
Kang is the CEO and founder of Cognosante, a health and human services technology company.
