TDL Media is in ‘advanced discussions’ to purchase the Glasgow Clan from Neil Black, who announced his intention to sell the Elite League outfit in October 2022.
Headed by Michael O’Rourke, TDL Media sold the Premier Sports television network to the Viaplay Group for $36 million in July 2022.
If the deal is completed, TDL Media will take responsibility for the lease of Braehead Arena and ownership of the Clan.
“We look forward to completing the takeover of the Glasgow Clan and the lease of its home venue, the Braehead Arena,” said O’Rourke.
“We have tremendous respect and admiration for the passion and support that exists around this great club. Over the coming years, our objective is to put the Glasgow Clan in the best possible position to achieve success on and off the ice.
“We must thank the owner, Neil Black. If it were not for his vision in founding the Clan some thirteen years ago, along with his passion and commitment to the club, the Clan would almost certainly not exist and for that we will always be grateful.”
Dyson Stevenson, Glasgow Clan (Image: Al Goold)
Black, the founding owner of the Clan, added: “The time is right to pass on the custodianship of the Club. When I decided to explore the possibility of selling the club, there were many excellent interested parties.
“My main priority was to engage with someone I could pass this great club along to, who had the necessary resources and experience of the sports and entertainment market in the United Kingdom, who could grow the Clan and ensure its continuation for future generations.
“With this in mind, I believe that TDL Media, who were great supporters of the Elite League and top flight Scottish football and rugby via their previous ownership of Premier Sports… will not only be great custodians of the Clan but also a great addition to the Elite League as a whole.”
Analysis: Glasgow Clan supporters see light at the end of the tunnel with sale talks ‘advanced’
Neil Black announced his desire to sell the Glasgow Clan in the aftermath of the Lasse Uusivirta debacle, which saw the club sign – and quickly release – a player accused of rape in the United States.
The Clan were in the midst of the worst season start in franchise history at the time, with Malcolm Cameron axed after he presided over a run of sixteen consecutive defeats.
While Glasgow’s fortunes improved in the second half of the season, an eighth-placed finish and first round playoff exit represents a disastrous season for a club also mired in off-ice controversies.
With that in mind, TDL Media’s proposed takeover of the Clan is positive news for everyone involved.
Neil Black will no longer be in the bizarre position of owning two clubs in the same league. Clan supporters can walk away from a dark season with hopes of a better future. The Elite League will welcome an ambitious new owner into its inner circle. Everyone wins here.
