Tech billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes has joined Russell Crowe and James Packer as Rabbitohs co-owners after buying a 25 per cent stake in the famous club.
Crowe and Packer both reduced their stakes to 25 per cent each, while the South Sydney members own the remaining quarter.
Cannon-Brookes is worth $37 billion after he founded Atlassian, one of the largest computer software companies in the world.
He became the first Australian in history to own a minority stake of an NBA team when he invested in the Utah Jazz in 2019.
Cannon-Brookes, 41, is also a major climate change advocate, recently pledging $1.5 billion to help slow the earth’s warming to 1.5 degrees by 2030.
The Rabbitohs made the grand final last month and now boast three of the most high-profile owners in the NRL.
“I’m excited and humbled to be a part of this iconic club,” Cannon-Brookes said.
“The South Sydney Rabbitohs are special. Not only are we the oldest, loudest and proudest – we are an organisation people truly, deeply care about.
“I’m looking forward to partnering with Russell and James and bringing what I can to the table to help the club grow to even greater heights.”
Crowe and Cannon-Brookes have previously worked together on climate change projects.
The Hollywood superstar said he was looking forward to seeing what Cannon-Brookes would bring the club.
“I’m sure it hasn’t gone unnoticed to South Sydney members and supporters that Mike wears a white Rabbitohs hat for special occasions,” Crowe said.
“This is a very strong move for the club. It connects us to the front edge of emerging technologies and business and underlines the importance of our efforts in the community.
“Mike understands the resonance of sport in Australia, and James and I welcome his input going forward in keeping South Sydney ahead of the curve, and a game leading organisation, on and off the field.”
Packer also praised his fellow billionaire and the work he’ll bring to the club.
“Souths have had an outstanding year as a football club, with an even brighter future ahead,” Packer said.
“I am really pleased that Mike is joining us, because I know how committed he is to the community. He will be a big asset and supporter of South Cares and all the important work they do.
“I look forward to working with Mike, Russell, the Board and Blake’s (CEO Blake Solly) team to write the next chapter of Rabbitoh success.”
Source: foxsports.com.au