TLDR
- Tether has nominated two candidates to join the board of the Italian football club Juventus.
- The nominees include Tether’s deputy CIO Zachary Lyons and orthodontist Francesco Garino.
- Tether currently holds a 10.7% stake in Juventus, following investments made in February and April.
- The company stated that it aims to enhance corporate governance and minority representation within the club.
- Juventus will vote on the board nominations during a shareholder meeting scheduled for November 7.
- The nominations follow the resignation of the entire Juventus board in 2022, after allegations of financial fraud.
Tether has nominated two candidates to the Juventus board as it seeks a stronger influence in the club’s management. The company proposed deputy CIO Zachary Lyons and Francesco Garino, an orthodontist and lifelong Juventus supporter. The nominations come ahead of a key shareholder meeting scheduled for November 7.
Tether Seeks Deeper Role in Juventus Governance
Tether aims to gain a stronger footing in Juventus after acquiring a 10.7% stake earlier this year. The company made two investments in the club, in February and again in April, signaling its long-term plans. Now, it moves to influence decisions by proposing names for the board.
The stablecoin firm nominated Zachary Lyons, its deputy chief investment officer, as a representative on the board. In addition, Tether proposed Francesco Garino, an orthodontist and noted supporter of the club. Both nominations reflect Tether’s desire for diverse representation in Juventus governance.
Tether stated, “We have made suggestions to be voted in the assembly in order to adopt best-in-class corporate governance.” It further emphasized the need for “representation of minorities” in the club’s future structure. The proposals come amid broader reforms following past controversies at Juventus.
Juventus Faces Pressure After Scandals
The nominations follow a turbulent period for Juventus, which has faced scrutiny over financial misconduct. In November 2022, the entire board resigned after investigations into false accounting involving player wages. This prompted legal action and reputational damage for the club.
By September 2025, former chairman Andrea Agnelli and two other executives agreed to suspended sentences through plea deals. Tether appears intent on promoting transparency in response to the club’s governance history. The company used the opportunity to highlight its commitment to higher standards.
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino also called to “Make Juventus Great Again,” referencing a popular political slogan. He made the statement during the announcement of the board proposals. Ardoino previously visited the White House in July for the GENIUS stablecoin bill ceremony.
Tether Expands Its Investment Portfolio
Tether continues expanding its presence in sectors beyond digital assets, including media and infrastructure. It recently invested $775 million in the video-sharing platform Rumble, expanding its tech footprint. The firm now targets strategic acquisitions with aligned partners.
In August, Tether and Rumble offered to acquire all shares of AI firm Northern Data, valued at $1.17 billion. The move reflects Tether’s focus on high-growth, tech-driven companies. It marks a significant expansion of the stablecoin issuer’s investment strategy.
Meanwhile, Tether also holds around 100,000 Bitcoin, valued at over $11 billion as of September. Additionally, its flagship stablecoin, USDT, had a market cap above $181 billion on Thursday. These developments underline Tether’s financial strength and global influence.
