West Ham United announced today that the Club intends to donate £500,000 of the fee received from MSI/Just Sports Inc for the settlement of the dispute relating to Carlos Tevez, to the Football Foundation.
The contribution will be earmarked specifically for the creation
of football mini-pitches in the London Borough of Newham.
West Ham United Honorary Life President Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson and
Chairman and CEO Eggert Magnusson confirmed the decision on behalf
of the Club's board.
Eggert Magnusson said: "When we arrived at West Ham United
last year, we said that we must not forget our responsibility
towards our local community. Our supporters are at the heart of
everything we do and make West Ham United what it is.
"The Football Foundation plays an important role in
promoting grassroots sport by investing in parks, schools and
playing fields and we are delighted to be able to support this work
in the East End of London."
Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson added: "We hope our donation will
provide young people in the East End of London with better
opportunities to get active and play the game we love.
"We know that our supporters invest a lot of time and
energy following West Ham United so passionately, and we recognize
the importance of being able to give something back to the local
community."
Sir Robin Wales, Mayor of the London Borough of Newham said:
"This is great news for the kids of Newham. I am delighted
that the leaders of West Ham United are once again showing their
commitment to our local communities. I am proud of the Club and
extend my personal thanks to Eggert Magnusson and Bjorgolfur
Gudmundsson for this investment."
Paul Thorogood, CEO of the Football Foundation said: "West Ham
United should be congratulated for making this generous
contribution to the Newham community. The Football Foundation will
ensure this significant funding is targeted towards where it is
most needed."