Hull City takeover COMPLETE as Turkish media personality Acun Ilicali takes over the Allam family to end 11-year reign – ‘We are starting a beautiful journey’

Hull City have confirmed Acun Ilicali as new owners, ending 11 years under the Allam family.

The Turkish show business personality, estimated to be worth over £70m, is the founder of Acun Medya Group, a popular media company around the world.

A long process, which started in June 2021, ended on Wednesday as the Championship club confirmed the 52-year-old had taken control with immediate effect.

A statement read: “Hull City can confirm that Acun Medya has completed the purchase of the football club.

“The acquisition has been approved and ratified by the English Football League and sees Acun Medya take full control of the club with immediate effect.”

He added: “The club wishes former president Assem Allam, vice-president Ehab Allam and his family good luck for the future.”

The news will be greeted with joy by Tigers fans, who have been wanting a change of ownership for many years, with many near misses along the way.

Despite two promotions to the Premier League and an FA Cup final under the Allams, the family have twice tried to change the club’s name and fortunes have dwindled in recent years.

Ehab Allam, outgoing Vice President, said: “Now is the time for a new owner to take over and I would like to wish Acun and his team all the best for the future.

“We have taken a very commercial approach to running the club and I really hope Acun can rebuild the relationship with the fan base and also bring back the on-pitch success that the fans crave and deserve.”

Ilicali will feature for the rearranged game against Blackburn at MKM Stadium on Wednesday night as Hull look to end a six-game losing streak.

The Turk said: “I’m happy to have achieved one of my biggest dreams today. We are starting a beautiful journey with Hull City.

“We have many big dreams and goals to achieve with our fans. I want to thank the Allam family for the friendship and sincerity they have shown during this process.

“I sincerely believe that we will succeed with the incredible fans of this beautiful city.”