Ex-Padres Co-Owner Fowler to Take Lincoln Controlling Stake

Ron Fowler, former executive chairman of MLB's San Diego Padres, is set to acquire a controlling stake in Lincoln City Football Club. The American businessman, alongside his son Andrew, has been building his investment through Liquid Investments Inc., initially taking a 12.6% stake in Lincoln City Holdings in April 2024[1][3]. This move marks a significant escalation, positioning Fowler as the club's primary controller[4].

Fowler's Background in Sports Ownership

Ron Fowler (born July 23, 1944) is a seasoned entrepreneur and CEO of Liquid Investments Inc., a company that previously distributed major beer brands like Miller, Coors, and Heineken, generating over $300 million in annual sales[2]. His high-profile sports involvement began in 2012 when he led a minority ownership group to purchase the San Diego Padres for $800 million, including the team's stake in Fox Sports San Diego[2]. As executive chairman and MLB control person—the first locally based one since the team's founding—Fowler represented the Padres in league matters and oversaw major contracts, such as Manny Machado's record 10-year, $300 million deal in 2019[2][5].

Fowler stepped down as chairman in November 2020, handing control to Peter Seidler while serving as vice chairman until 2022[4]. He also chaired MLB's Labor Committee during his tenure[5].

Investment in Lincoln City

The Fowlers' entry into English football came via a visit to Lincoln, where they met club officials and committed to the initial 12.6% investment[3]. Lincoln City, known as the Imps, competes in EFL League Two. This stake has evidently grown, culminating in Fowler's impending controlling interest, as reported by BBC Sport[1][4]. The investment group now lists Fowler as a key director, signaling deeper involvement in the club's operations and potential growth ambitions[5].

Supporters anticipate Fowler's MLB experience could bring financial stability and strategic expertise to Lincoln, potentially elevating the club amid competitive league challenges. No specific timeline for the stake transfer was detailed, but it underscores growing U.S. investment in lower-tier English football[1][3].

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