Ex-Poker Pro James Bord Named Preferred Bidder for Sheffield Wednesday

Ex-Poker Player James Bord Becomes Preferred Bidder for Sheffield Wednesday

Sheffield Wednesday have taken a major step towards ending their financial and ownership turmoil, with former professional poker player James Bord officially named the preferred bidder to take over the club.

The Championship strugglers, currently bottom of the table on -9 points, have been in administration since October following a turbulent decade under Thai businessman Dejphon Chansiri.

From Poker Tables to the Football Pitch

James Bord, a London-born entrepreneur and winner of $4.3 million on the professional poker circuit, has emerged as the front-runner to buy the club. Known for his success in gambling strategy and later machine learning and AI, Bord now runs Short Circuit Science, a data-driven sports analytics company based in San Francisco.

The AI firm already consults for multiple clubs, including Sheffield United, where Bord’s methods were implemented—albeit with mixed reviews.

Under his Park Bench SFC LLC banner, Bord already holds stakes in Cordoba CF (Spain) and Septemvri Sofia (Bulgaria). He also co-owns Scottish club Dunfermline Athletic with business partner Evan Sofer.

Still Unknowns in the Takeover Puzzle

While a deal has been agreed in principle, several questions remain:

• Who else is in Bord’s consortium?

• Where is the funding coming from?

• Will Park Bench SFC be directly involved?

• How will AI analytics shape the club’s recruitment strategy?

The bid must now pass the EFL’s Owners’ and Directors’ Test, with potential scrutiny due to Bord’s previous ties to gambling.

However, the offer to creditors exceeds EFL minimum requirements, meaning Wednesday would avoid a -15 point deduction next season—a crucial factor for rebuilding.

What the Administrators Said

Joint administrator Paul Stanley said the decision followed “extensive financial, legal and forensic due diligence” and praised the consortium’s football experience.

“That work has progressed significantly… including a detailed assessment of funding sources, ownership structure, and governance,” he added.

Competition From Other Bidders

Bord beat out other high-profile names including:

• Mike Ashley, ex-Newcastle United owner

• David Storch, ex-aviation CEO, linked with Tom Costin of Blue Crow Sports Group (Le Havre, Leganes, Cancun FC)

As of late November, around 10 parties were still in the running, but Bord’s group has now taken pole position.

On the Pitch: A Dire Situation

Wednesday are currently 30 points from safety, virtually guaranteeing relegation to League One. The club has suffered two points deductions since entering administration, compounding on-field misery.

Analysis: Analytics vs Instinct

Reactions among supporters have been mixed:

• Skeptics recall chaos at Sheffield United during Bord’s advisory tenure.

• Optimists believe a data-driven recruitment model shows planning and modernity.

• Relieved fans are simply glad some progress is finally being made after months of speculation.

“Bord brings football ownership experience, but there are big challenges ahead,” say analysts. “A clear plan must be communicated—and fast.”

Whether the Bord consortium can revive the club remains to be seen, but for now, Sheffield Wednesday fans finally have a glimmer of clarity in a season mired in uncertainty.