American owners of Spanish club Mallorca, including Andy Kohlberg, Steve Kerr, and Steve Nash, do not recommend soccer club ownership in Europe due to the challenges involved, such as dealing with cultural, language, and financial differences. Mallorca’s owners have faced ups and downs, including multiple relegations and promotions, but are now enjoying the success of reaching the final of the Copa del Rey, where they will face Athletic Bilbao. The American owners have invested in Mallorca’s future and are committed to the long-term success of the club despite the difficulties they have faced.
The passion for soccer in Spain is different from that in the U.S., according to Kohlberg, with a deeper sense of tribal warfare and rivalry among fans. While Kerr and Nash are not heavily involved in the day-to-day operations of the club, they do follow the team and celebrate its successes. Other former athletes, including Stuart Holden and Graeme Le Saux, are also investors in Mallorca, bringing a unique perspective to the ownership group. Mallorca is one of the few first-division clubs in Spain with foreign ownership, providing a different experience for the fans and players.
The owners have focused on improving the fan experience at Mallorca, renovating the stadium and creating entertainment zones similar to American sports arenas. With a budget of nearly 70 million euros and significant investments from the American owners, Mallorca has been able to attract a large number of season ticket holders and ensure their supporters can attend the Copa del Rey final in Seville. Despite the club’s tumultuous history of promotions and relegations, the owners are focused on building a strong foundation for the future and remaining in La Liga.
The recent success of Mallorca can be attributed to the arrival of coach Javier Aguirre, who helped the team avoid relegation and achieve a ninth-place finish. The team’s main goal is to secure their position in the first division and continue growing to compete in the top half of the standings. Winning the Copa del Rey would be a significant achievement for the club and its fans, further solidifying Mallorca’s place in Spanish football. Kohlberg and the other owners are determined to see Mallorca succeed and continue on their journey of growth and success in La Liga.
