The owner of Fulham FC, Shahid Khan, is wagering that a £350 million redevelopment of Craven Cottage — which includes the addition of a private members’ club — will give the Premier League side the financial strength to compete with wealthier rivals.
“I believe this will go a long way in making Fulham both competitive and compliant with financial fair play regulations,” Khan told the Financial Times during a tour of the club’s west London project, which boasts a marble bar, a grand piano, and a scenic riverside walkway.
The multibillionaire explained that the upgrades to Fulham’s historic ground, their home since 1896, were made possible by its unique Thames-side setting, describing it as a “key asset”. He also noted that Fulham possesses “the most educated and affluent fan base in English football.”
Khan aims to generate new, sustainable revenue streams to ease his personal financial input while supporting future player acquisitions. This comes after Premier League clubs collectively spent more than £3 billion during the summer transfer window, with league rules restricting teams from losing over £105 million across a three-year period.
Having emigrated from Pakistan to the United States, where he built his fortune, Khan has overseen Fulham’s steady rise since taking charge. The south-west London club have maintained their Premier League status since gaining promotion in 2022.
At the heart of the new investment is Lighthouse Social, a luxurious private members’ club overlooking the River Thames — the first of its kind within a Premier League stadium. Khan views the project as both a landmark addition to the local community and a crucial step towards ensuring Fulham’s financial compliance and long-term stability.
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