Former professional poker player James Bord has been confirmed as the preferred bidder to take control of Sheffield Wednesday, as the Championship side looks for stability after entering administration earlier this season. The development marks a significant step forward for the Owls following a turbulent period on and off the pitch.
Sheffield Wednesday have been in administration since October, bringing an end to a decade under the ownership of Dejphon Chansiri. Administrators confirmed that an agreement has now been reached with a potential buyer, with Bord selected ahead of other interested parties as negotiations move toward a full takeover.
London born Bord is best known for his success on the professional poker circuit, where he won more than $4.3 million during his career. Before poker, he worked with well known gambling and analytics firms Starlizard and Smartodds, building a reputation for data driven decision making. He later left the gambling sector to focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning in the United States.
Bord is now the founder of data analytics company Short Circuit Science, which applies AI technology to sports performance and recruitment analysis. The company already plays an advisory role at several football clubs, including Sheffield United, following their takeover earlier this year, primarily focusing on youth development and long term squad planning.
Under the investment vehicle Park Bench SFC LLC, Bord also holds stakes in Córdoba CF and Bulgarian side Septemvri Sofia, adding to his growing football portfolio.
For Sheffield Wednesday supporters, the announcement offers cautious optimism. The club has managed just one Championship win this season and has struggled amid financial uncertainty. Fans will now hope that Bord’s analytical background and multi club experience can help restore stability and direction.
While the takeover is not yet complete, Bord’s selection as preferred bidder suggests momentum is building. If finalised, his arrival could signal a new chapter focused on sustainability, smarter recruitment, and long term planning for one of English football’s most historic clubs.
