Aston Villa owners face criticism ahead of crucial Vitória SC ownership vote

Aston Villa's ownership group, V Sports, has come under criticism in Portugal ahead of a vote that could increase its stake in Vitória SC from 29% to 46%.

Former Vitória presidential candidate Viriato Sampaio has accused the investors of exploiting the Portuguese club's financial difficulties as members prepare to decide on the proposed ownership changes on Friday, 30 October.

Speaking to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Sampaio questioned whether the agreement adequately protects Vitória's financial interests and independence.

V Sports, controlled by Aston Villa owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, originally acquired a 46% stake in Vitória in February 2023.

That holding was reduced to 29% in June 2023 after both clubs qualified for the Europa Conference League, prompting changes to comply with UEFA's multi-club ownership regulations.

V Sports also relinquished its representation on Vitória's board.

The latest proposal would restore its 46% shareholding through the transfer of another 17% of the club's football company.

The agreement includes a proposed €3.8million capital injection, comprising €2million from Vitória's side of the arrangement and €1.8million from V Sports.

However, Sampaio believes the negotiations are taking place while Vitória is in a weakened financial position.

Vitória reported negative equity of approximately €36.8million for the 2025/26 financial year.

Sampaio argues that the club's financial problems have weakened its ability to negotiate favourable terms with V Sports.

In his interview with A Bola, the former presidential candidate accused the current leadership of allowing the club's finances to deteriorate and claimed the investors were benefiting from that situation.

He also questioned whether the proposed investment provides sufficient guarantees about future infrastructure spending, sporting development and player arrangements.

Sampaio raised concerns about potential transfers between Aston Villa and Vitória, including uncertainty over player rights and how loan agreements might benefit the Portuguese club.

His comments represent criticism of the proposed partnership rather than established findings of wrongdoing by V Sports.

Sampaio has also criticised the timing of the upcoming general meetings.

Vitória members are due to vote on the ownership proposal on 30 October, before a separate meeting concerning the club's financial accounts on 6 November.

He believes members should have been able to assess the financial accounts before deciding whether to approve the investment arrangement.

The former presidential candidate has also expressed concern about Vitória's identity and the potential influence of outside investors.

Although he previously supported renewed discussions with V Sports, Sampaio maintains that any agreement must prioritise the Portuguese club's interests.

Vitória members are scheduled to vote on the proposed ownership changes at an extraordinary general meeting on Friday, 30 October.

A separate meeting to consider the club's financial accounts is scheduled for 6 November. The ownership vote will determine whether V Sports can proceed with the proposed increase in its stake.