Burkle (c) has an estimated $2B net worth, along with political and Hollywood connectionssacramento republic fc
Penguins co-Owner RON BURKLE this week agreed to become the lead investor in USL club Sacramento Republic FC, and it is "clear Burkle's involvement has rejuvenated Sacramento's sometimes demoralizing quest for an MLS franchise -- and could represent the city's clinching argument to league officials," according to Dale Kasler of the SACRAMENTO BEE. L.A. investment banker LLOYD GREIF, a close friend of Burkle's, said, "None of this was done on speculation. Trust me, I know Ron; he wouldn't be doing this if there was any risk that Republic wasn't going to be an MLS team." People who know Burkle said that he can make Republic FC a "standout at the major league level." He "brings more to the table" than just his estimated $2B net worth, as he is a "big player in that rarefied world where sports, finance and entertainment intersect." Burkle can "navigate the often treacherous worlds of sports and show-biz -- and has the acumen to build Republic FC's MLS stadium in the downtown railyard, along with the 14-acre entertainment district planned for the stadium site." The 66-year-old Burkle is also "comfortable with politicians." That could "come in handy if problems arise with the financing plan" proposed by Sacramento Mayor DARRELL STEINBERG to "help Burkle build the streets and other infrastructure near the proposed 20,000-seat stadium (the stadium itself will be privately financed)" (SACRAMENTO BEE, 1/25).
