Levine Leichtman Family Office Complete Purchase of San Diego Wave FC
The Levine Leichtman Family Office has officially completed the purchase of San Diego Wave FC from its previous owner Ron Burkle. Lauren Leichtman will serve as the club’s new NWSL Governor, and her son, Zachary Leichtman-Levine, will be the new NWSL Alternate Governor.
“We are incredibly proud to take ownership of the San Diego Wave FC,” said Lauren Leichtman. “This team has made a significant impact on women’s soccer and has become an integral part of the San Diego community. We are thrilled to join this extraordinary journey and build upon the incredible foundation laid by Ron Burkle. Our commitment to the club will extend beyond the field as we pursue the construction of a new state-of-the-art training facility while also supporting local youth development and community programs. Our mission is to create an unparalleled experience for fans, players, and staff, further cementing the Wave’s position as the premier women’s soccer club.”
The Levine Leichtman family led by Lauren Leichtman and Arthur Levine founded a private equity firm in 1984 that has managed approximately 15 billion dollars since their inception according to a press release.
Along with the family office they have added other strategic partners as investors who are “established business and philanthropic leaders in San Diego.”
The news of the sale was first reported in March of 2024 by Sportico. According to Sportico The Levine Leichtman family originally bought 35% of the club in the Spring and completed the other 65% in October for a final valuation at $120 million.
“What we have accomplished with the Wave has been remarkable, not only for the club but for the league and the entire community” said Burkle. “I’m incredibly proud of how far the club has come and want to thank Jill (Ellis), her staff and the players for their hard work and passion. As the club moves forward, I know that Arthur, Lauren, Zac and Sabrina will continue its growth with the same standard San Diego has come to expect. I look forward to supporting its ongoing success alongside the passionate fans.”
