Clearwater advises Cork City FC on its investment from David Cronin

Transaction

Cork City Football Club receives investment from David Cronin

Sell-side

Undisclosed

Role

Adviser to Cork City Football Club on its investment from David Cronin

Sector

Consumer

Region

Ireland

We have advised Cork City Football Club (CCFC), a prominent Irish association football club, on its investment from David Cronin.

As Co-Founder of WYLDE esports and the National Esports Centre, David has a lifelong passion for sports as well as businesses. He is the owner of Neptune Ribs, Ireland’s powerboat company and was a member of the Munster Rugby Commercial Board for many years. His investment marks a significant milestone, as he joins CCFC as a minority shareholder.

Founded in 1984, CCFC holds a distinguished place in Irish football, becoming the first club in Cork to field a team of professional players. Over the years, CCFC has achieved notable success, including a League of Ireland Premier Division and FAI Cup double in 2017. Following its recent promotion, CCFC is set to compete in the Premier Division for the 2025 season, under the leadership of Manager Tim Clancy.

This investment highlights a shared commitment to advancing CCFC’s ambitions both on and off the pitch, providing resources and expertise to further drive its development in Irish football.

We are delighted to have worked closely with Cork City FC during this exciting phase of development for Dermot Usher and the team. This milestone reflects a shared commitment to advancing Cork City FC’s legacy as a leading club in Irish football. With David’s fresh perspective and Dermot’s steadfast leadership, the club is well-positioned for continued success as they advance into the League of Ireland Premier Division.
John Sheridan, Managing Partner, Clearwater

David is a respected businessman who brings commercial acumen, experience and ambition to Cork City FC. David taking a shareholding in the Club provides a solid platform for our upcoming season and the future with City continuing to grow the business side of the club to allow us to invest strategically in Signings, Academy structures and Community programs.
Dermot Usher, Owner, Cork City FC

With Cork City FC winning the First Division, and subsequent promotion to the League of Ireland Premier Division for 2025, the Club is positioned for continued growth and success; I look forward to working with Dermot Usher and Cork City FC to build a successful, sustainable Football Club that reflects our shared goals of inclusivity, professionalism, and excellence.
David Cronin, Co-Founder and Director, Wylde Esports

Advisers

John Sheridan

Managing Partner +353 1 912 1721 john.sheridan@clearwatercf.com Connect

Michael Quinlivan

Director +353 87 752 7645 michael.quinlivan@clearwatercf.com Connect

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