Leeds-based phoenix club FC Farsley welcome Wycombe Wanderers icon Adebayo Akinfenwa as shareholder
Leeds-based phoenix club FC Farsley have welcomed a high-profile shareholder to the club
Leeds-based phoenix club FC Farsley have welcomed former Wycombe Wanderers star Adebayo Akinfenwa on board as a shareholder.
They have not managed to secure a place in the National League System for the 2026/27 season, but have been accepted into the Yorkshire Amateur League Supreme Division.
FC Farsley welcome Adebayo Akinfenwa on board
David Stockdale, who serves as manager of the men’s first team as well as director of football and co-owner, has now got his former Wycombe teammate Akinfenwa involved.
“When David and Katie told me about their plans for FC Farsley, it was impossible not to get excited," Akinfenwa said. "I’ve known them both for many years, and I know the passion, honesty and hard work they put into everything they do.
“This isn’t just about football - it’s about building a club that genuinely serves its community and creates opportunities for people.
“Becoming a shareholder was an easy decision because I believe in the people leading the club and the vision they’ve created. I’m looking forward to helping wherever I can, meeting the supporters and being part of what I believe is going to be a really exciting future for FC Farsley.”
‘Someone who cares deeply’
Affectionately dubbed 'The Beast' during a playing career that spanned over 20 years, Akinfenwa represented the likes of Doncaster Rovers, Swansea City and Northampton Town as well as Wycombe.
He left the Chairboys in 2022, returning briefly to the pitch for a stint at Faversham Town in 2023 before hanging up the boots for good. The 44-year-old was renowned for his physicality and amassed over 750 career appearances.
“I’ve known Adebayo for a long time and we shared some fantastic years together in professional football," said David Stockdale. "I know exactly what he brings, not just because of the player he was, but because of the person he is.
"He’s someone who cares deeply about football, about people and about giving back to the game. When we spoke about what we’re building at FC Farsley, he immediately understood what we were trying to achieve.
"The fact that he’s chosen to become a shareholder says everything about the belief he has in the project. Having someone of his calibre involved is brilliant for everyone connected with the club, and I’m excited to continue this journey alongside him.”
Chairwoman Katie Stockdale, meanwhile, has saluted Akinfenwa’s “experience, passion and personality”.
“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Adebayo to FC Farsley,” she said. “Adebayo has been a close friend of ours for many years, so this isn’t simply someone joining the club - it’s someone who genuinely believes in what we’re trying to achieve and wants to be part of the journey.
“From the very beginning, we’ve spoken about creating a football club that puts people and the community first. Adebayo shares those values completely, and we’re excited to have someone of his experience, passion and personality helping us continue to grow both on and off the pitch.
“His belief in our vision means a great deal to us, and we’re looking forward to building the future of FC Farsley together.”