3 February 2023
By Tom Collins
tom@TheCork.ie
Kildare-based business man confirms takeover, and releases statement
“As of today, Friday the 3rd of February, I am delighted to confirm that I have successfully purchased Cork City FC. This is the start of an amazing journey to build on the success of FORAS who have entrusted me to take the club to the next level.
Achieving this would not have been possible without the support of many people. I cannot thank enough the FORAS Board and all of its members who supported me to make this happen.
Dermot Usher, Cork City FC Owner.
Thank you to all of the Cork City FC staff and volunteers who give their time to the club. I am very lucky to now be a part of this hard working, enthusiastic and loyal team. Great plans are afoot to grow attendance at matches with a number of additional events to run to allow local businesses be a part of the club in providing excellent services to customers.
I have been working hard behind the scenes to make match days a more enjoyable experience. 2023 is a start but be assured I will endeavour to provide the best experience and facilities we can. I would like to thank Barry Cotter and the Board of the MFA for all of their support in the facilities they provide us.
To Dave Alton and Conor Hallahan from FORAS who have led the sale side of the takeover. Many long hours have been put in by them and other board members. Dan Leahy from OMahonyFarrelly led the legal side for FORAS and his efforts are greatly appreciated too.
I would like to thank the FAI and the Licensing Committee for encouraging me through this process placing their faith in me to lead one of Ireland’s premier soccer clubs. I am looking forward to developing and growing the game.
My own Legal team led by Gerry Beausang with Conall Ennis, Lisa Matthews and Trevor Watkins from Pinsent Mason were extremely thorough and supportive throughout. The Finance team was led by Naoise Cosgrove with Eimear Grier and Darren Roche from Crowe. They have been extremely accurate and supportive in their work.
To all sponsors, old and new, led by our new Front of Jersey sponsor Zeus. We hope you all enjoy the journey and that we will deliver value for money.
To my own family, my two sons Sean and David, my partner Denyse and a close circle of friends, your support has been second to none and I am very lucky to have your unwavering support throughout this process and on future undertakings.
All I want to do at all times is the right thing for Cork City FC. I am really looking forward to the year ahead and what we will learn as a team in order to develop as a club. I ask all supporters to come on this journey with us and let’s see what we can achieve.”