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RedBird Drops £500m Telegraph Bid, Throwing Ownership Back Into Doubt

The move underscores unresolved concerns over foreign influence affecting editorial independence.

Overview

  • RedBird Capital confirmed it has withdrawn its offer to buy Telegraph Media Group, ending a six‑month push to take control.
  • Newsroom unrest and negative publicity over alleged Chinese links were cited by multiple reports as key factors in the decision, while RedBird denied any Chinese influence and pledged an independent advisory board.
  • The proposal was poised for a call by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy on referral to Ofcom and the competition regulator under strengthened media rules.
  • The deal envisioned Abu Dhabi‑linked IMI keeping about a 15% stake, reflecting new limits that allow only small foreign state holdings in UK newspapers.
  • Telegraph chief executive Anna Jones said she will work with independent directors on next steps, with reports indicating a renewed sale process and a likely fresh auction in the coming months.