Tether Raises Juventus Stake to 10.12%, But Club Rejects €15–110M Capital Injection; CEO Paolo Ardoino Calls It Disappointing

On June 2, Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, expressed disappointment after Juventus Football Club failed to include the company in its recent capital increase. Despite Tether’s increased stake in April, the club reportedly blocked participation in a fresh equity round worth €15–110 million. Ardoino stated, “We simply cannot contribute unless society allows us to.” This statement highlights growing tensions between the club’s leadership and new investors. The development comes just weeks after Tether raised Juventus stake to 10.12%, increasing voting rights to 6.18%. The stablecoin issuer has consistently voiced its commitment to the club’s financial and technological transformation. Ardoino’s latest remarks suggest a disconnect between strategic intent and actual cooperation.

Tether Boosts Juventus Stake Amid Ambitious Plans

Tether increased its ownership in Juventus Football Club S.p.A. on April 15, 2025. The investment rose from 8.2% to 10.12% of issued share capital. This raised the firm’s voting rights to 6.18%. The updated shareholding was officially announced on April 24. The acquisition was made through Tether Investments, S.A. de C.V., a firm within the Tether Group. 

The group manages USD₮, the world’s largest stablecoin, serving over 400 million users globally. Tether’s leadership emphasized that the investment supports innovation and financial stability within Juventus. The company outlined its intention to explore digital engagement and the formation of a unified board. Ardoino noted, “This investment is not just financial, it’s a commitment to innovation and long-term collaboration.”

Capital Exclusion Sparks Tension with Juventus Leadership

Despite the publicized strategic intent, the recent capital increase excluded Tether from participating. Ardoino voiced frustration on social media, writing in Italian, “E.” He stated that willing investors, like Tether, remain sidelined despite intentions to support Juventus stake revival. The club’s management did not provide a formal explanation for the exclusion. The equity round reportedly ranged from €15 million to €110 million. 

Tether’s CEO concluded his post with a sharp remark that he hopes that at least the money from his grandstand ticket can help support the management’s expenses. The public statement has sparked fresh discussions about the relationship between Juventus’s board and minority shareholders. James Wynn, a financial analyst in European football, called the situation “a potential signal of governance misalignment.”

Tether’s Vision for Tech-Driven Club Transformation

The investment aligns with Tether’s long-term goals of integrating technology into traditional sports. Previous initiatives include its Plan ₿ partnership with FC Lugano, where Tether served as a sole kit sponsor. Tether aims to embed blockchain, AI, and biotech innovations into fan engagement and club operations. The company is also assembling an advisory team to explore high-level collaborations across Europe. Juan Sartori, known for his roles at Sunderland AFC and AS Monaco, plays a strategic role in Tether’s sports push. The approach combines Tether’s tech expertise with Juventus’s sporting legacy.

Outlook for Juventus Stake Rise and Strategic Shareholders

Tether’s attempt to increase involvement in Juventus stake marks a new chapter in football investment. However, exclusion from the latest capital round raises questions about the club’s governance approach. The gap between public promises and internal decisions may affect investor trust. Tether’s increased stake signals confidence in Juventus’s potential. But without board-level cooperation, strategic integration could stall. The ownership structure remains dominated by Exor, the Agnelli family’s investment company, with a 63.8% stake. Tether’s continued interest suggests long-term commitment. Ardoino’s words, both hopeful and critical, reflect the frustrations of a willing partner. Stronger collaboration could unlock financial resilience and digital growth for Juventus. With investor interest growing and blockchain adoption expanding, the club’s future could depend on how it balances legacy control with modern innovation.

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