Multi-millionaire Nathan Tinkler, who saved the Newcastle Jets from financial ruin last week, has shown his commitment to his new club by extending his ownership of the club from the end of this season until 2020.
In a massive sign of faith in both the club and the local community, the 34-year-old, who has built his considerable wealth from investments in the mining industry, has decided to make his investment in the Jets a long-term one.
“When I took up the interim licence two weeks ago I said that we wanted to gauge the support for the club from the local community and local business sector,” Tinkler said.
“I am pleased to say that the response so far from all facets of the Hunter community has been overwhelming and that has given me the confidence to commit to the Newcastle Jets for the long term.”
“Our aim is to build the Newcastle Jets into a great asset for the Hunter community, Jets members and as a nursery for football talent in the region. This announcement is another step along that road.”
It paves the way for Tinkler to make a massive investment in the Jets playing list and off-field resources and given the robust manner which he has approached his investment in the horse racing industry, the A-League could be set for a big money shake up over the next few years.
It sets the scene for the Jets to emerge as an A-League powerhouse.
FFA CEO Ben Buckley has endured his share of bad news over the past few months but was delighted with Tinkler’s decision to commit long-term.
“This is a fantastic result for the Hyundai A-League, the Club and the people of the Newcastle area and shows that football has a huge future in the region,” Buckley said.
“I urge all of the Hunter community to continue to get behind the Jets and help Nathan and his team build something special.”
