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Queens Park Rangers appoint Amit Bhatia as new club chairman

Queens Park Rangers

English Championship side Queens Park Rangers have appointed Amit Bhatia as their new chairman after current co-chairmen Tony Fernandes and Ruben Gnanalingam deciding to vacate their position.

Indian origin Amit Bhatia, who previously served as vice-chairman of the club, will work closely with the management team led by CEO Lee Hoos.

Gnanalingam will replace Bhatia as vice-chairman and remain chairman of the QPR Trust.

Tony Fernandes said, “It’s a good time for a change as the club is now in a stable position and this will give the new chairman a good foundation to build upon.”

“It’s time for the club to have a chairman who is based in London. It was important for me to step down at a time where we have solved many issues such as FFP, making the club sustainable, building a strong academy and having a strong backroom team.”

Meanwhile new chairman Amit Bhatia said, “I’m excited to be stepping into the role as chairman of QPR, and have accepted this position fully aware of the responsibilities and pressures that come with this appointment.”

“As well as being involved with the management of the club over the past decade, I have always been a loyal fan and a passionate supporter. In returning to the club as chairman this season, I hope to draw on the experiences of the past 10 years to help Steve, Lee, Les [Ferdinand] and the entire QPR family further the progress we have made under Tony and Ruben’s leadership.”

“Under my watch, I will ensure that we make decisions that are in the best long-term interests of QPR, and which bring stability and sustainability to the club. While we would like to be more active in the transfer market it’s important we adhere to the profitability and sustainability rules moving forward.”

“We are pursuing a more careful and considered strategy and our squad is now made up of young and hungry players, filled with passion and commitment.”