Hibernians FC is set to enter a new era after club members unanimously approved a deal that will see American sports investment company Sunday Ventures acquire a majority stake in the historic Maltese football club.

The decision, taken during the club’s Annual General Meeting at the Tony Bezzina Stadium, will result in Hibernians being transformed into a Sport Limited Liability Company, with Sunday Ventures becoming the majority shareholder.

Sunday Ventures, chaired by Mike Melby, is a US-based sports-focused holding company that owns a controlling stake in Italian Serie B side Cesena and is involved in the privatisation of Brazilian Serie B club Avaí FC, renowned for developing international stars such as Barcelona winger Raphinha and Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães. The company is also pursuing a majority investment in a leading Scandinavian football club.

Under the new structure, Sunday Ventures will assume control of Hibernians FC, while Ranier Bezzina will retain a significant minority shareholding. In accordance with Maltese legislation, the remaining 10 per cent of the club will be owned by the Members’ Foundation.

Despite the change in ownership, the Bezzina family, who have guided the Paola-based club for nearly five decades, will continue to play a central role in its future.

Ranier Bezzina will remain club president, ensuring continuity and preserving the strong connection between the club and its supporters. Mike Melby will assume the role of chairman, supported by operating adviser Emiliano Salvarezza, the former General Manager of Italian club Sampdoria. Salvarezza will work closely with Bezzina and the club’s management team on a day-to-day basis.

Speaking about the investment, Melby emphasised Sunday Ventures’ long-term commitment to the club.

“Hibernians FC fits our multi-club ownership strategy perfectly, and we look forward to it becoming our first club competing in UEFA competitions,” he said.

“We are here for the long haul and will begin building a resilient project – not focused on short-term success, but on creating something meaningful, global and sustainable.”

Bezzina described the agreement as a landmark moment for both Hibernians and Maltese football.

“This is a historic moment not only for our club but also for Maltese football, as we become the first club to form part of a multi-club ownership structure. This will create new pathways for talent development, with Hibernians playing a central role within the network,” he said.

Bezzina also thanked Malta Premier League Chairman Joseph Muscat, MPL Chief Executive Officer Alan Abela, Malta Football Association Senior Vice-President Matthew Paris, and lawyer Jason Azzopardi for their support throughout the negotiations.

The transaction is expected to be finalised in the coming weeks as Hibernians prepare for the new season with renewed ambition and optimism.