Nassef Sawiris is a visionary leader whose contributions to business, sports, and global development transcend borders. Born on January 19, 1961, into Egypt’s influential Sawiris family, he inherited not just a legacy but also an unyielding drive to shape the future. Armed with a degree in economics from the University of Chicago, he has seamlessly bridged tradition and innovation, transforming industries and empowering communities worldwide.
As chairman of Orascom Construction PLC and CEO of OCI N.V., Sawiris spearheads global operations in construction and chemicals, driving sustainability and innovation. His strategic investments include a significant role in Adidas, where he shapes the future of global fashion and athletics, and as co-owner of Aston Villa Football Club, where he fosters excellence in sports. Beyond his business ventures, Sawiris’s commitment to philanthropy is evident in his roles with the University of Chicago and the Cleveland Clinic, where he champions education and healthcare advancement. With a blend of determination, intellect, and generosity, Nassef Sawiris continues to inspire as a leader redefining success on a global scale.
Aston Villa’s co-owners and leaders are Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, who oversee the club through their holding company, V Sports. Sawiris, an Egyptian billionaire, and Edens, an American businessman with extensive investments in sports, took over Aston Villa in 2018 when the club faced severe financial difficulties. Their partnership has since revitalized the club, bringing stability and success, including a return to the Premier League and significant investments in facilities and players.
The chairmanship at Aston Villa is shared between the two, reflecting their joint commitment to transforming the club. Nassef Sawiris is renowned for his broader investments, including stakes in companies like Madison Square Garden Sports, while Wes Edens is also co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks NBA team. Together, they have introduced a forward-thinking, financially robust model to Aston Villa, aiming to position the club as a competitive force in English and European football
Aston Villa Football Club, founded in 1874, is one of the oldest and most successful football clubs in England. Based in Birmingham, the club has a rich history and has contributed greatly to the development of English football. Villa plays at Villa Park, a stadium with a long-standing legacy of hosting both club and international matches. Over the years, Aston Villa has earned a reputation for producing talented players and fostering competitive spirit, remaining one of the most prominent clubs in the Premier League.
Aston Villa’s trophy cabinet is filled with major achievements. The club’s greatest glory came in 1982 when they won the European Cup (now the UEFA Champions League), defeating Bayern Munich 1-0 in the final. Domestically, Villa has won the English top-flight league title seven times, with their last league triumph coming in 1981-82. Additionally, the club boasts multiple FA Cup and League Cup wins, and they are one of the few clubs to have won the Football League First Division title in the early 20th century.
In recent years, Aston Villa has undergone significant transformation under new ownership by Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, with an emphasis on rebuilding the squad and increasing investments in infrastructure. Villa was promoted back to the Premier League in 2019 and has shown strong progress, with aspirations to return to European competition. The club’s journey continues to inspire fans as it builds a new chapter of success, both on and off the pitch.