Roger Hampel
Photo Credit: Warta Poznan
Warta Poznan, a club competing in Betclic 1. Liga (Poland’s second tier), has secured a strategic investment from the US-based Escalada Sports Partners. The American private investment group has acquired a minority stake in the club, with Bartłomiej Farjaszewski retaining majority ownership. The deal signals growing international interest in Polish football, particularly from American investors looking for long-term opportunities in Europe.
Who is Escalada Sports Partners? Escalada Sports Partners Warta Poznan
Escalada Sports Partners is a private investment group composed of experienced entrepreneurs, finance professionals, and executives with backgrounds in technology, sports, and corporate leadership. The fund’s leadership includes individuals connected to major global brands such as Lyft, Starbucks, Google, Apple, Microsoft, and IBM, as well as sports organizations like the NFL, Detroit Pistons, and NJ/NY Gotham FC.
At the head of Escalada stands Jeremiah (Jeremy) Bird, a former senior advisor to Barack Obama, founder of 270 Strategies, and Vice President at Lyft. Many members of Escalada’s team share a background in political and business strategy, having worked together on Obama’s presidential campaigns and administration. Escalada Sports Partners Warta Poznan
Why Warta Poznan?
The decision to invest in Warta Poznan was based on a thorough assessment of the club’s sporting and business potential. Escalada highlighted key factors such as Warta’s history, youth development structure, and the city of Poznań’s potential for growing a strong fan base. Additionally, the club’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development initiatives played a role in attracting the investment.
Jeremy Bird emphasized the club’s resilience and long-term potential, stating:
"As global sports fans, we believe that football has the power to create meaningful change. We are excited to partner with a club that has a rich history, remarkable sporting achievements, and a strong social impact. Warta Poznan has shown that, despite a modest budget, it can compete at the highest level in Polish football. The club has a strong foundation, a committed youth academy, and a growing supporter base in one of Poland’s most dynamic cities. We see promising opportunities both in sporting and business terms, and we are eager to contribute to Warta’s continued success.”
Structure of the Investment
The agreement grants Escalada a minority stake in Warta Poznań, providing the fund with representation on the club’s Supervisory Board. However, Bartłomiej Farjaszewski remains the majority owner, ensuring continuity in the club’s leadership.
The deal was finalized on February 28, 2025, following several months of negotiations. One of the key figures behind the partnership was Michał Flejsierowicz, a Poznań-born entrepreneur and co-founder of Escalada, who played for Warta’s youth academy before emigrating to the United States. His personal connection to the club helped initiate discussions that ultimately led to the investment.
Warta Poznań’s Perspective
For Warta Poznań, the investment represents more than just financial backing. President of the club Artur Meissner emphasized the importance of knowledge transfer and international expertise, stating:
"This partnership with Escalada is not just about capital—it’s an opportunity to benefit from the international experience and know-how of our American partners. It’s a step toward implementing Western standards in sports management and investment. However, I want to be clear: this will not change Warta’s situation overnight or solve all of our challenges. But it will provide us with a strong foundation for growth and send a clear message to our supporters, partners, and the wider football industry—Warta Poznań is a club with a great history and an even brighter future.”
A Sign of Growing US Investment in Polish Football?
Escalada’s investment in Warta Poznan is one of the first cases of American capital entering the Polish football market. Previously, GKS Tychy was the only Polish club to receive funding from the US. The move reflects a broader trend of US investors targeting European football, as Polish football clubs improve their sporting and organizational standards.
Jeremy Bird acknowledged this trend, stating:
"For some time, we have been observing the rising standards in Polish football. The level of play is improving, clubs are becoming more professionally managed, and Polish teams are performing better in international competitions. At Escalada, we see Polish football as a long-term investment, and we are excited to be part of its growth."
Comments