A change in majority ownership for the New York Cosmos is complete, as Rocco Commisso has finalized his investment in the franchise.
Commisso, the founder, chariman, and CEO of Mediacom Communications Corporation, was linked to the Cosmos before the recent decision by the U.S. Soccer Federation to grant the NASL provisional Division II status for 2017. Such a decision was apparently needed to finalize Commisso’s purchase of the team, as one the reported contingencies of the deal was that the NASL retain Division II designation. Commisso, who played soccer at the collegiate level for Columbia and was once invited to try out for the U.S. Soccer Team in the 1972 Olympics, will take control from Sela Sport and Cosmos chairman Seamus O’Brien.
“Like so many of our fantastic fans, I have followed the Cosmos since the fabulous days of Pelé, Chinaglia, Alberto, and Beckenbauer,” said Commisso in a statement. “With my deep roots in the New York City area as a former player, youth coach, and proud supporter of the Columbia University soccer program, I look forward to building on the rich history of America’s most iconic soccer club.”
“We’ve worked hard to secure a positive future for the club and Rocco is the perfect person to lead the continued renaissance,” said O’Brien. “He is not only extremely knowledgeable about the beautiful game as it is played worldwide, but brings extensive entrepreneurial experience in the media and communications business to the organization.”
The Cosmos have also announced that Giovanni Savarese, who led the team to an NASL championship last season, will retain his position as head coach for the 2017 campaign. “Cosmos fans deserve a world class experience,” said Savarese. “I am thrilled Rocco is giving me the opportunity to continue as head coach to pursue our fourth championship in five years.”
Image courtesy New York Cosmos.
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