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Rugby League

Wigan bought by Quins chairman

24/10/2007

Ian Lenagan, the chairman of Harlequins RL, has bought a controlling share in Wigan Warriors from former owner Dave Whelan.

Whelan, the founder and owner of JJB Sports and the chairman of Premiership football club Wigan Athletic, has decided to sell up in order to concentrate on his other investments.

The agreement between the two sees Lenagan, who was born in Wigan, taking over an 89 per cent share of the club from December 1st.

Lenagan's new management team will include former Wigan and Great Britain centre Joe Lydon, who becomes the chief executive of the holding company and effectively takes over the running of the club from Maurice Lindsay.

"I am delighted to be returning to Wigan and, while respectful of the past, now look forward with enthusiasm to the challenges of helping to shape the future," Lydon said.

The new owner has confirmed that Brian Noble will remain in charge and the club have acquired an option to remain at the JJB Stadium up to 2050.

"Completion of the deal has taken longer than anticipated and today's announcement is needed to end speculation for supporters and staff alike," Lenagan added.

The new chairman's future at Harlequins is unknown as yet but he is expected to make an announcement next week to outline his plans.