Newcastle United Appoints David Hopkinson CEO Replacing Darren Eales

Newcastle United has appointed David Hopkinson as their new chief executive, succeeding Darren Eales who stepped down due to a serious blood cancer diagnosis. Hopkinson brings over 25 years of executive leadership experience from prestigious sports organizations including Real Madrid, Madison Square Garden Sports, and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. His prior roles include president and COO at Madison Square Garden Sports, global head of partnerships at Real Madrid, and chief commercial officer at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, where he managed major franchises like the New York Knicks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Toronto Raptors. Hopkinson expressed his honor and excitement to join Newcastle at a pivotal time, emphasizing the club's passionate fan base, rich history, and ambitious ownership aiming to position Newcastle among the world's elite clubs. Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan highlighted Hopkinson's outstanding track record and strategic capabilities as key to growing the club globally both on and off the pitch. The transition includes a handover process with Eales, who has been supportive during the leadership change amid ongoing treatment.