San Francisco 49ers president pens personal letter to Leeds United fans - a YEP exclusive

San Francisco 49ers Enterprises president and Leeds United vice chairman Paraag Marathe pens an exclusive letter to supporters with the Yorkshire Evening Post.
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Dear Leeds United family, staff, partners and supporters,

Nearly three years ago, Andrea Radrizzani and everyone at Leeds United welcomed me, Jed York, and our San Francisco 49ers family into the club as minority partners. During that time, we have strengthened our relationship, while restoring Leeds United’s place back in the Premier League.

It has been my honour to personally experience what the club represents to the people of Leeds and Yorkshire, on and off the pitch.

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I have been to Leeds many times the past few years and each and every time I set foot in the city, I can palpably feel the passion for our club in the air around me.

Who is Paraag Marathe? Leeds United's new vice chairman profiled after San Francisco 49ers increase Elland Road stakeIn partnership with Andrea, we will continue to be responsible custodians of your beloved Leeds United, striving to personify the hard-working mentality of those who wear the badge in the stands of Elland Road, at home and around the globe.

Yesterday, we were delighted to announce that our investment group has increased its equity position in the club. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to work even more closely with Andrea, Angus Kinnear, Victor Orta, the staff and our passionate supporters to achieve new heights and I humbly accept the honour of serving as the club’s Vice Chairman.

We take great pride in our association with Leeds United. I feel deep connections – both personally and through the 49ers – to what this club represents. This is a special club with a remarkable history.

San Francisco 49ers Enterprises president and Leeds United vice chairman Paraag Marathe. Pic: GettySan Francisco 49ers Enterprises president and Leeds United vice chairman Paraag Marathe. Pic: Getty
San Francisco 49ers Enterprises president and Leeds United vice chairman Paraag Marathe. Pic: Getty
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Everything you need to know about the San Francisco 49ers following fresh investment in Leeds UnitedIn many ways, this is your club and we are committed to making you proud and strengthening it for the future. We are determined to lend our experience and creativity to help the club continue its journey.

Our team has always shared Andrea’s vision to construct a hard-working, winning football club that will instil pride in Leeds supporters – on the pitch, commercially, and in the community – in a way that is inclusive to all.

Andrea has already done an excellent job in bringing the club to this place and I respectfully look forward to the opportunity to help him achieve the next steps of our journey.

While the ongoing pandemic has forced me to watch every match from home over the past year, we look forward to the day when we can join you again at Elland Road.

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What has been said by Andrea Radrizzani and Paraag Marathe following the San Francisco 49ers increased investment in Leeds UnitedWhen that time comes, members of our 49ers team and I will also relish the opportunity to maintain a regular presence at club events and within the Leeds community.

Until such time, please remain safe, stay strong and take care of your loved ones during these challenging times.

Thanks for welcoming us into your family. We look forward to Marching on Together.

Humbly and Respectfully,

Paraag Marathe

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