Overview

• Hopkinson officially starts on Friday, beginning a handover supported by outgoing chief executive Darren Eales, who is stepping down for health reasons.
• Club leaders Yasir Al‑Rumayyan and Jamie Reuben hailed Hopkinson’s experience and said his leadership comes at a pivotal time for Newcastle.
• Hopkinson brings more than 25 years in senior roles, including president and COO at Madison Square Garden Sports, global head of partnerships at Real Madrid, and chief commercial officer at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment.
• His remit includes turning on‑field progress into revenue opportunities at St. James’ Park and advancing international growth following preseason tours to Singapore and South Korea.
• The appointment comes as PIF‑owned Newcastle targets sustained growth after increased spending, Champions League participation, a 2025 outlay exceeding $150 million including a ~$72 million deal for Anthony Elanga, and a valuation of about $930 million.