Marwan Koukash leaves Salford Red Devils with immediate effect as he hands control of Super League side to fans
The Palestinian has handed control to a community trust
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Salford Red Devils has been returned to the fans after owner Dr Marwan Koukash announced his departure from the Super League club with immediate effect.
Dr Koukash has owned the Manchester-based club since 2013 when he rescued it from financial ruin, but his time as owner has been blighted by an ongoing tug of war with the game’s governing body, the Rugby Football League.
However, after announcing that he is handing the club over to the community trust, Dr Koukash confirmed that his sudden exit is due to his own personal interests and that they will not impact on the future of the Red Devils.
“I have now instructed my legal team, subject to RFL approval, to establish a trust to take ownership of the club for the benefit of the fans and the local community of Salford,” Dr Koukash said in a statement.
“I will appoint a board of trustees to include local Salford businessmen and a representative of the fans to be elected by the season ticket holders which will ensure the fans have a prominent voice in the running of the club.
“I am confident that the new structure at the club under the guidance of the trustees will see the club continue to make progress on and off the pitch.”
Without his financial backing, Salford Red Devils could well be out of business, with the club close to liquidation when he took control four years ago. The one-time Palestinian refugee-turned-self-made millionaire brought Salford back into the top flight, but was close to leaving the club last year after a lack of motivation for the game.
But last season’s Million-Pound Game, in which Salford somehow escaped relegation with a last-gasp score, reinvigorated his passion and the club mounted a strong Super League charge this season, finishing inside the top four and reaching the Challenge Cup semi-finals.
His frustrations this year have not gone away though , with the low attendances at the AJ Bell Stadium frustrating him into regular outburst, but despite his frosty style and regular moments of controversy, he was quick to pay tribute to the club’s supporters for their backing during his time in charge.
“During my time running the club I have faced many challenges which I have met head on and I, along with my family, have had many great times, creating very fond memories and friendships that will stay with us,” he added.
“I have genuinely grown to absolutely love the game of rugby league and the Red Devils and still care deeply about it.
“My decision is nothing to do with the operation of the game or the RFL, with whom during my time I have challenged but also enjoyed a fantastic working relationship, especially during 2017 and they have my ongoing respect.
“I look forward to joining our loyal supporters and all my friends when I visit in the grandstands at the stadium next season.”
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