Who is Marc Zahr? All About Aston Villa Women’s New Investor

Aston Villa Women’s Football Club has announced a significant new addition to its board of directors, with billionaire investor Marc Zahr securing a minority stake in the team. Zahr, an influential American financier, brings a wealth of experience from his successful career in real estate and asset management.

Who is Marc Zahr?

Marc Zahr is a prominent figure in the world of finance, currently serving as the co-president of Blue Owl Capital Inc., a major alternative asset management firm overseeing an impressive $250 billion (£187 billion) in assets. He is also the founder of Oak Street Real Estate Capital, a firm established in 2009 that specialized in high-yield, low-risk property investments. In 2021, Oak Street merged with Blue Owl, where Zahr now leads their real estate division.

A University of Dayton graduate, Zahr has spent years refining his expertise in the real estate sector, with his current role at Blue Owl Capital making him one of the leading figures in financial management.

At 46 years old, Zahr’s investment in Aston Villa Women marks his debut in the world of European football, as he looks to bring his financial expertise to the club’s continued growth.

Nassef Sawiris, Aston Villa’s chairman, expressed excitement about the new partnership, stating: “This investment is a testament to the potential of Aston Villa Women and underscores the belief in the WSL’s trajectory. Marc brings a wealth of experience to the football club and we are excited for him to be a part of our continued growth on and off the pitch.”

Marc Zahr’s Other Sports Involvements

Zahr’s involvement in sports extends beyond Aston Villa Women. In August 2025, he joined a prominent ownership group, led by Tom Dundon, in the acquisition of the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers for $4 billion. This acquisition, set to close by the end of the year, marks his second major sports investment within a few months.

Zahr’s Net Worth and Financial Impact

As of October 2025, Forbes estimates Marc Zahr’s net worth at $1.3 billion. This wealth is largely attributed to his role at Blue Owl Capital, where he holds substantial equity in the firm managing billions in assets. His financial acumen is expected to have a lasting impact on Aston Villa Women as the club aims to expand its reach and success in the Women’s Super League (WSL).

The Sale of Aston Villa Women’s Team

Zahr’s investment comes at a pivotal time for the club, following news that Aston Villa has agreed to sell part of its women’s team to V Sports, the holding company that controls the men’s side of the club. According to reports, 10% of the women’s team is being sold to American investors, with the remaining 90% retained by V Sports, controlled by Aston Villa’s owner Nassef Sawiris. This move follows a trend in the Women’s Super League, with other clubs like Chelsea and Everton also exploring similar options to comply with financial regulations.

The decision to sell part of Aston Villa Women’s team was also driven by the club’s need to adhere to the league’s financial sustainability regulations.

Zahr’s entry into the world of football and his investment in Aston Villa Women is seen as a major step for the club as it strives to compete at the highest level of women’s football in the UK.