Heart of Midlothian’s chief executive, Andrew McKinlay, assured the club’s financial stability as Ann Budge steps down. Despite a recent £400,000 loss, Hearts invested heavily in their squad, buoyed by Tony Bloom’s £10m investment for a 29% stake. This strategy aims for immediate on-field success and leverages Bloom’s advanced scouting system.
McKinlay confirmed the club strategically used Bloom’s capital, stating, “If we didn’t have that money and we didn’t have European football then we would cut our cloth accordingly.” Hearts anticipates enhanced player trading will be a significant future funding pillar. Tributes were paid to Budge for her transformative impact and decade of service.