Cobh Ramblers FC is pleased to announce that 90% of the club has been acquired by a new ownership group led by Ilya Movshovich, Pedro Lombardo (Managing Partner at JPX Investments), and Bryant Clark (Founder of Texas-based Fifty Five South Ventures).
The investment has been made through Digital Athlete Ventures (DAV), a sports and media investment firm founded to empower elite athletes, entertainers, and strategic investors to take ownership positions in professional sports clubs and related platforms. Backed by several prominent sports investors, DAV combines capital, content, and operational insight to drive long-term value across its portfolio.
With a focus on innovation, DAV integrates sports performance, brand amplification, and digital media to elevate club operations and audience reach. The firm’s model is rooted in strategic ownership, not passive investing, ensuring that every acquisition aligns with a broader plan for growth, culture, and commercial return.
This agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Cobh Ramblers FC, centred on long-term sustainability and growth. DAV supported the club financially during the transaction process while conducting comprehensive due diligence and collaborating closely with club leadership to shape a shared vision.
DAV brings deep expertise across performance innovation, fan engagement, and football operations, which aligns closely with the club’s values and future ambitions.
Both Cobh Ramblers FC and Digital Athlete Ventures are committed to building a stable foundation for the club’s future, with the local community at the heart of their vision. Preserving the identity and heritage of the club, while fostering new opportunities for growth and engagement, will be central to this partnership. The new ownership group has made clear that community inclusion, transparency, and long-term stewardship will guide their approach from day one.
Bill O’Leary, Chairman of Cobh Ramblers FC
“After months of hard work, the Board is proud to announce this investment partnership. In a highly competitive landscape, securing a deal of this calibre reflects our commitment to the club’s future. What set DAV apart was not just their financial backing, but their operational capabilities and respect for the club’s legacy and community. Ilya and Pedro have been a pleasure to work with, and we’re excited to move forward together.”
Jim Farrell, Board Member of Cobh Ramblers FC
“A massive thank you to our volunteer Board and all the other dedicated volunteers. Your efforts in recent months, along with DAV’s support, and guidance from Eric and Alex has been crucial in securing the club’s long-term future.”
________________________________________
Ilya Movshovich, Co-Lead Investor:
“At DAV, we prioritise doing the right thing and building meaningful relationships with the communities we invest in. Our commitment to Cobh is long-term – we’re here to provide real stability and help the club grow in a sustainable, purposeful way, both on the pitch and behind the scenes.”
Pedro Lombardo, Co-Lead Investor:
“As a Brazilian, football has always been part of who I am. When Alexander brought us this opportunity, it struck a chord instantly. From our first conversation with Bill and the Board, we felt the passion and potential at Cobh Ramblers. We acted quickly because we knew this was the right one. Our goal is to build on its proud legacy with a steady hand and strategic focus.”
Bryant Clark, Managing Partner:
“What drew me to this deal was the strength of the local community and the opportunity to be part of something authentic. Our focus is on helping Cobh thrive with the right support, values, and vision for the future.”
________________________________________
Acknowledgements
Special thanks to Alexander Jarvis of Blackbridge Sports LLC, who introduced DAV and serves as an adviser to the DAV board, and to Eric Perez, who represented and supported the club throughout the transaction. Both were pivotal in making the deal happen.
________________________________________
For press inquiries:
Digital Athlete digitalathlete Ventures
media@digitalathleteventures.com
www.digitalathleteventures.com
