Birmingham announce minority owner Tom Brady’s departure

Birmingham have announced the departure of Tom Brady, who held a minority-owner role at the club. The announcement comes with Birmingham top of the Championship on goal difference, with 29 points after 15 games. The club moved into first place after Saturday’s 2-1 win over Swansea and have now won seven of their last nine matches. No reason has been given for the former American football player’s departure.

The club expressed its gratitude for Brady’s involvement. “Birmingham City Football Club expresses its sincere gratitude to Tom Brady for his involvement with and unwavering support for the club over the last three years,” it said. Birmingham also praised the experience and passion he brought, adding that it looked forward to building on that foundation both at the training ground and in the Birmingham community. The message reflected the club’s view of his contribution beyond his minority stake.

Brady joined Birmingham’s ownership in August 2023 through a partnership with the club’s owners. His responsibilities included chairing an advisory board. When he arrived, Birmingham said he would contribute financially and commit his time and expertise to the club. His departure therefore brings an end to an association that began less than three years ago.

The move follows a 23-season career in the NFL. Brady retired in February 2023 after being named the league’s most valuable player three times. He won six Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots and another with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, giving him seven championships overall. He remains a lead NFL analyst for Fox Sports.

At Birmingham, Brady’s exit comes with the team at the top of the table, with goal difference separating the sides on the same number of points. The club are coming off a win against Swansea and have won seven of their past nine games, but no explanation has been offered for the decision.