New Juventus Stakeholder: Tether Enters the Scene
Last week, Juventus, one of the most illustrious clubs in Italian football, announced a significant development in its financial landscape. Paolo Ardoino, the CEO of Tether, a prominent cryptocurrency firm, revealed that his company, along with its co-founder Giancarlo Devasini, has acquired a minority stake in the Bianconeri. This move has sparked considerable interest and speculation among fans and financial analysts alike. Ardoino, in an interview with Corriere della Sera, emphasized that Tether’s investment is driven by a genuine passion for the club and a belief in its immense potential. He described the acquisition as a process that had been ongoing for several months, during which Tether gradually bought shares on the market, positioning itself as a small but significant player in the club’s ownership structure. Ardoino affirmed that Tether’s intention is to support the current management, and while they are open to acquiring a larger stake, there is no hidden agenda or Machiavellian plan behind their move.
Ardoino’s Personal Connection to Juventus
Paolo Ardoino’s connection to Juventus is not just a matter of financial strategy; it is deeply personal as well. Ardoino and Devasini, both avowed supporters of the club, have long admired Juventus’ rich history and global brand recognition. Ardoino mentioned that their investment was influenced by a combination of factors, starting with their own support for the team. He clarified that Tether is not a speculative fund, and their investment is rooted in a genuine belief in the club’s potential. Ardoino highlighted that Juventus is one of the most important and recognized brands in the world, making it a fitting target for their financial backing. He expressed a desire to support an Italian opportunity, particularly one that aligns with Tether’s broader technological and innovation goals.
Tether’s Technological Ambitions and Football
Ardoino’s interview also shed light on Tether’s multifaceted business activities beyond cryptocurrencies. The company is developing advanced technologies, including a blockchain-based payment system similar to PayPal, and is actively acquiring businesses in artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology. Ardoino believes that these technologies will play a pivotal role in the future of football. He noted that AI and biotech have the potential to revolutionize player performance, health management, and fan engagement, areas where Juventus, with its vast and loyal fanbase, could benefit immensely. Ardoino’s vision for Tether’s involvement extends beyond mere financial support; he sees a synergy between the club’s excellence and Tether’s technological advancements, aiming to create something innovative and transformative in the football ecosystem.
Financial Capacity and Long-Term Support
When questioned about the financial implications of Tether’s investment, Ardoino was unambiguous. He stated that Tether’s financial capacity is robust, highlighting the company’s impressive profits of 13.7 billion in the previous year. This financial strength, Ardoino asserted, positions Tether to support Juventus for the foreseeable future, even jokingly suggesting that the firm has the means to back the team for the next 2000 years. This statement underscores Tether’s commitment to Juventus and its belief in the club’s long-term success. Ardoino emphasized that their investment is not about short-term gains or advertisements but about fostering sustainable growth and innovation within the club.
The Symbolism Behind the Zebra Video
One of the more intriguing aspects of Ardoino’s involvement with Juventus is a video he posted on his X (formerly Twitter) profile showing a zebra chasing its prey. Ardoino explained that the video symbolizes a comeback, a transition from being hunted to becoming the hunter. He likened this imagery to Juventus’ need to return to its former glory, a sentiment encapsulated in his hashtag, “Make Juve Great Again.” Ardoino was pleasantly surprised by the positive reactions from young fans, who appreciated the transparency and engagement of a stakeholder on social media. He hopes that this level of interaction will help fans understand and appreciate the potential of Tether’s involvement, igniting a sense of excitement and optimism about the club’s future.
Ardoino’s Favourite Player and Coach
In the interview, Ardoino also spoke fondly of his favourite player and coach associated with Juventus. He named Alessandro Del Piero, a Juventus legend, as his favourite player, a predictable but heartfelt choice given Del Piero’s iconic status. Ardoino also offered high praise for current coach Thiago Motta, describing him as an “extremely capable person” with incredible abilities. He recounted attending a recent match against Inter at San Siro, calling it the most beautiful game he has ever seen. Ardoino’s emotional response to the game underscores his deep connection to the club and his belief in Motta’s leadership. He emphasized that the tension and effort put into the match made it all the more beautiful, reflecting a fan’s perspective on the club’s resurgence and the role of a visionary coach like Motta in this journey.
