Official Statement

Spezia Calcio today announced that American entrepreneur and investor Mike Repole has entered into an agreement to acquire a majority ownership stake in the historic Italian football club, becoming its new controlling owner joining forces with Tom Roberts to drive the Club’s long-term growth and success.

This announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Spezia Calcio, combining Repole's entrepreneurial experience, passion for sports and track record of building successful businesses with Roberts' ongoing commitment to the Club. Together, they share a vision of establishing a stable, sustainable and competitive organization that honors Spezia's traditions while positioning it for continued growth and success.

Founded in 1906 and having recently celebrated its 120th anniversary, Spezia Calcio has a rich history and a deep connection to the city of La Spezia and its passionate supporters. The new ownership partnership recognizes the importance of preserving that legacy while embracing opportunities to strengthen the Club's future.

"Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and I've always believed in their power to bring people together and create a sense of community," said Mike Repole. "Growing up in an Italian-American family in Queens, I was surrounded by the same pride, passion, loyalty and sense of community that I see in La Spezia. Spezia is a Club with incredible history, tradition and passionate supporters, and that's what makes this opportunity so special. I've been incredibly impressed by the loyalty and passion of the fans who stand behind this team through every high and low, regardless of division. I have tremendous respect for the hardworking people of La Spezia and the pride they take in their city. I'm honored and excited to become part of this community.”

"I'm excited to join forces with Tom and the entire Spezia organization to build something meaningful and lasting, " continued Repole. We're coming into this with tremendous respect for what this Club represents, a commitment to its future and the ambition to help Spezia reach its full potential. We want to build something that this city and its supporters can be proud of for generations to come."

A central priority of the ownership group will be providing continuity and stability for the Club. Spezia's existing management team led by Club President Charlie Stillitano will remain in place, ensuring continuity in day-to-day operations and allowing the organization to build on its current foundation and momentum.

Under Tom Roberts' ownership, Spezia has established a strong foundation and renewed momentum on the pitch. The Club currently sits atop its division standings, reflecting the leadership of Roberts and Club President Charlie Stillitano, along with the dedication of its players, coaches, management and staff. This provides an exciting foundation for the new ownership partnership to build upon.

"I'm incredibly proud of what we've accomplished at Spezia and the foundation we've established," said Tom Roberts. "Bringing Mike into the ownership group is an exciting opportunity to build on that progress. Mike and I share a belief in the potential of Spezia Calcio and a commitment to building a strong and sustainable future for the Club. He understands the importance of respecting the Club's history, its supporters and the community, while also recognizing the opportunities ahead. We're excited about what we can accomplish together and remain committed to providing the stability and leadership necessary for Spezia to continue moving forward."

The long-term vision includes supporting the Club's continued competitiveness on the pitch while exploring opportunities across player development, youth and women's football, facilities, and the overall supporter experience. These areas reflect a broader commitment to developing a sustainable football organization that can thrive both on and off the pitch.

Charlie Stillitano, who has played an important role in the Club's relationships within the football community and the city of La Spezia, emphasized the significance of the new partnership.

"This is an exciting moment for Spezia Calcio and everyone who cares about this Club," said Charlie Stillitano. "Mike brings extraordinary energy, vision and a proven ability to build and grow organizations. Just as importantly, he understands that a football club belongs to its community and that its history and supporters are central to its identity. Together with Tom, we have an opportunity to create real continuity, strengthen the Club's foundation and build toward a very bright future. Spezia means a great deal to this city, and that responsibility is something we all take very seriously."

For Repole, the investment represents another significant step in his growing involvement in professional sports. Repole is the owner of Repole Stable with includes more than 350 thoroughbred horses who race across the globe; and in 2025 he became part of the ownership group of the United Football League (UFL) a spring football league in the U.S. A successful entrepreneur known for building and scaling consumer brands such as vitaminwater, BODYARMOR and NOBULL, Repole has increasingly focused his attention on sports ownership and investment, bringing a long-term, entrepreneurial approach to the organizations in which he is involved.

Regulatory Approval

Mike Repole's participation remains subject to the customary review and approval of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). The Club and its partners hold the relevant governing institutions in the highest regard and will cooperate fully throughout the approval process. Over the coming weeks, Mike Repole will work closely with the FIGC to facilitate the necessary regulatory review and approvals in accordance with applicable sports regulations.