Los Angeles FC has offered to sell Swiss side Grasshopper Club Zurich following mounting protests from supporters, signaling a potential early end to its ownership of the historic club.
Grasshoppers fans made their frustrations clear over the weekend, unveiling banners targeting LAFC and staging a silent protest by leaving their section empty for the opening 30 minutes of a match.
In a statement released via the club, LAFC acknowledged the backlash and confirmed its willingness to explore a sale. The MLS club said it is open to either a partial or full exit, provided any deal ensures the long-term sustainability of Grasshoppers.
LAFC acquired a majority stake in the Zurich-based club in 2024, purchasing 90% from Hong Kong-based Champion Union with the aim of reviving one of Switzerland’s most decorated teams. However, results on the pitch have fallen short of expectations.
Despite holding a record 27 league titles, Grasshoppers are currently struggling near the bottom of the table and are likely headed for a relegation playoff. The club has faced instability in recent years, including a historic relegation in 2019—their first in nearly seven decades—before returning to the top flight.
Financial pressures have also been a key issue. LAFC noted that the club’s operating costs continue to exceed revenues, requiring ongoing external funding to remain competitive at the professional level.
The ownership group warned that without sustained investment, the club’s future as a professional entity could be at risk. Still, it emphasized a willingness to engage with supporters and potential buyers if a sale aligns with both financial stability and fan sentiment.
The situation highlights the growing tension between multi-club ownership models and local fan expectations, particularly when performance and financial realities fail to meet historical standards.