Norfolk Holdings has completed its majority takeover of Norwich City, resulting in Delia Smith and her husband, Michael Wynn Jones, stepping down from the club’s board. The move marks the end of an era for the couple, who have been pivotal figures at the club since their involvement began in 1996.
In August 2024, Norfolk Holdings, which is led by Milwaukee Brewers owner Mark Attanasio, announced its intention to increase its shareholding in Norwich City to approximately 85%. This change meant that Smith and Wynn Jones, who had been long-serving members of the club’s board, would relinquish their roles as directors and transition to honorary life presidents. This change was officially confirmed on Monday, following the completion of the deal.
The latest statement from Norwich City clarified that Norfolk Holdings now owns roughly 85% of the club’s ordinary shares, with Smith and Wynn Jones retaining a 10% stake. The remaining shares are held by other shareholders in the club. The board of directors now includes Mark Attanasio, Richard Ressler, Tom Smith, and Zoe Webber, while Smith and Wynn Jones, although stepping back from the day-to-day operations, remain important figures within the club’s history.
Smith and Wynn Jones have been synonymous with Norwich City for decades. Their involvement in the club dates back to 1996 when they first became shareholders. Over the years, the couple has played a significant role in the club’s growth and its identity, becoming some of the most well-known figures in English football. Their contribution has not just been financial but emotional, as both Smith and Wynn Jones have always shown their commitment to the club’s success and its fans.
Delia Smith, a well-known celebrity chef, became particularly famous for her passionate connection to Norwich, especially after a memorable moment during a 2005 Premier League match against Manchester City. In the second half of that match, after Norwich had seen their 2-0 lead evaporate into a 2-2 draw, Smith took to the pitch with a microphone to address the crowd. Her rallying cry, “Where are you? Where are you? Let’s be having you. Come on!” has become legendary among Norwich fans, symbolizing her unshakeable belief in the team, even in the face of adversity. Although Norwich failed to win the match, with Manchester City ultimately securing a 3-2 victory, the moment went down in Premier League folklore and cemented Smith’s iconic status among the club’s supporters.
While Smith and Wynn Jones have stepped away from the club’s operations, their involvement with Norwich City has left a lasting legacy. The couple’s ownership and leadership have seen the club navigate many highs and lows, including promotion to the Premier League and subsequent relegation, as well as their enduring presence in the Championship. Their tenure has been marked by a deep connection with the fans, with Smith often appearing at matches and publicly supporting the team.
Despite the change in ownership, the future of Norwich City remains optimistic. Norfolk Holdings, now the majority shareholder, is led by Attanasio, who has steadily increased his stake in the club, first purchasing 15.9% of Norwich in 2022 before expanding it to 40.4% in 2023. The club is currently 11th in the Championship, with hopes of securing a place in the playoffs despite a challenging run of one win in five matches.
Smith and Wynn Jones may no longer be on the club’s board, but their bond with Norwich City and its supporters is undiminished. Their honorary life president roles ensure that their legacy within the club will endure, even as the club looks ahead to a new chapter under Norfolk Holdings’ leadership.
