Dagenham & Redbridge FC Happy Fan Group Takeover 2026

Key Points

• Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club shares previously held by Club Underdog, Inc. have been acquired by Happy Fan Group, LLC, led by John Grabowski.
• The takeover marks the start of a new era, with Grabowski remaining operationally committed to the club.
• The National League has approved the takeover, the Football Association has granted necessary approvals, and definitive documentation has been completed.
• Happy Fan Group is committed to creating an environment for success on and off the pitch, based on collaboration, innovation, and tireless dedication.
• Josh Persell, CEO of Club Underdog, thanked fans for their support during difficult times and expressed gratitude to Steve Thompson for his service.
• Anwar Uddin, MBE, will rejoin as Director and Non-Executive Chairman, pending final procedural approvals.
• Anwar Uddin expressed pride in his new role, highlighting his past as a player and commitment to a positive future.
• John Grabowski and Anwar Uddin will conduct a strategic review of club operations, focusing on performance, fan experience, and financial sustainability.
• John Grabowski described the takeover as a humbling moment and emphasised commitment, strategic investment, and energy for the club’s future.
• The new ownership pledges constructive communication with fans, support for volunteers, staff, and players, and fostering a strong community environment.

Dagenham (East London Times) February 17, 2026 – Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club has officially announced the takeover of its shares previously owned by Club Underdog, Inc. by Happy Fan Group, LLC, an investment group led by John Grabowski. This development, approved by the National League and the Football Association with all definitive documentation completed, signals the beginning of a new chapter for the National League club. The move comes after a challenging period, with Grabowski pledging operational continuity and a focus on long-term success.

Who Has Taken Over Dagenham & Redbridge FC?

The shares in Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club previously held by Club Underdog, Inc. have officially been acquired by Happy Fan Group, LLC. As detailed in the club’s official announcement, this investment group is led by John Grabowski, who will remain operationally committed to the club. The takeover has received full approval from the National League, necessary clearances from the Football Association, and completion of all definitive documentation.​

Happy Fan Group, LLC, outlined its core philosophy in the announcement, emphasising an environment that breeds success both on and off the pitch through collaboration, innovation, and tireless dedication. John Grabowski, as reported in the club’s statement, described this as “a humbling moment, and it is a privilege to accept this responsibility.” He further noted that the club and its fanbase have endured significant challenges this year, requiring “commitment, strategic investment, and relentless energy.”

What Did Josh Persell Say About the Sale?

Following the conclusion of the takeover process, Josh Persell, CEO of Club Underdog, issued a statement expressing appreciation for the stakeholders involved. As reported by Dagenham & Redbridge FC in their official release, Persell said:

“Club Underdog has officially completed the sale of Dagenham & Redbridge to John and Happy Fan Group. We recognise that the past two seasons have been difficult for everyone involved, and we truly appreciate the fans for sticking by the club through these challenges. Finally, I want to share my sincere thanks to Steve Thompson for his unwavering support and dedicated service during this transition.”​

This acknowledgment highlights the turbulent recent history of the club, with Persell’s words underscoring the loyalty of supporters amid difficulties. Steve Thompson’s role in the transition was specifically praised, reflecting his dedicated service during a pivotal period.

Why Is Anwar Uddin Returning as Chairman?

In a move to strengthen leadership immediately, Anwar Uddin, MBE, will rejoin the club as a Director and Non-Executive Chairman, subject to final procedural approvals. The club’s announcement described this as fortifying leadership with “a familiar face to the Daggers faithful,” referencing Uddin’s history with the club. As a former player, Uddin brings deep ties to Dagenham & Redbridge FC.​

Speaking on his appointment, Anwar Uddin stated:

“I am proud and delighted to become a Director and the Non-Executive Chairman of Dagenham & Redbridge FC. This club gave me unforgettable memories as a player, and that bond has never left me. It has been a challenging year for everyone associated with the club, but it has also opened the door to a new chapter. I’m excited about what’s to come and am committed to helping shape a positive and progressive future.”​

Uddin’s return is positioned as a stabilising force, leveraging his past experiences to guide the club forward.

What Is the Strategic Path Forward for the Club?

John Grabowski and Anwar Uddin will initiate a strategic review of club operations to pinpoint improvements in performance, fan experience, and financial sustainability. According to the official announcement, the objective is to

“develop a platform on which we can introduce new partners and support the long-term success of the club.”

This review aims to establish a robust foundation before broader expansions.​

Grabowski elaborated on this vision, stating:

“This is a humbling moment, and it is a privilege to accept this responsibility. This club and its fanbase have been through a lot this year. We understand that success requires commitment, strategic investment, and relentless energy. Our immediate focus is on establishing a strong, professional foundation for the future. Once this transition is complete, we can begin to build.”​

How Will This Review Impact Club Operations?

The strategic review will encompass all facets of the club, from on-pitch performance to off-field financial health. By identifying key areas for enhancement, Grabowski and Uddin intend to attract new partners, ensuring sustainable growth. This proactive approach addresses past difficulties head-on, prioritising professionalism and energy.​

What Commitments Are Made to the Daggers Community?

Recognising the uncertainty transitions can bring—particularly resonant for Daggers fans who have weathered recent storms—the new ownership pledges constructive communication. The announcement emphasised support for all community members, stating:

“We also want to pledge a commitment to our volunteers, our staff, and our players. We are committed to providing the support necessary to ensure everyone, from the matchday volunteers to the first team, is supported in a manner that allows them to do their best work.”​

This holistic commitment extends to delivering results worthy of the fanbase.

“Supporting all members of our community will help us to deliver the results the Daggers deserve,”

the statement concluded, fostering an inclusive environment.​

When Did the Takeover Receive Official Approvals?

The takeover process culminated with approvals from the National League and the Football Association, alongside completed definitive documentation. No specific timeline beyond the announcement date was detailed, but the immediacy of leadership changes like Uddin’s appointment underscores the swift finalisation.​

Josh Persell’s reference to the sale’s completion further confirms that all procedural hurdles have been cleared as of the announcement.

How Has the Club Acknowledged Recent Challenges?

Multiple statements throughout the announcement reference a “challenging year” and “difficult” past two seasons. Josh Persell noted the hardships for “everyone involved,” thanking fans for their steadfastness. Anwar Uddin echoed this, describing it as tough for those associated with the club, yet an opportunity for renewal. John Grabowski similarly recognised the trials faced by the club and its supporters.​

These candid admissions frame the takeover as a turning point, with renewed optimism.

What Role Did Steve Thompson Play?

Steve Thompson received specific thanks from Josh Persell for his “unwavering support and dedicated service during this transition.” While further details on his position were not elaborated in the announcement, his contributions were pivotal in navigating the handover from Club Underdog to Happy Fan Group.

Why Is This Takeover Significant for Dagenham & Redbridge Fans?

For the Daggers faithful, this represents hope after adversity. The blend of new investment from Happy Fan Group, operational continuity via Grabowski, and familiar leadership through Uddin promises stability. Pledges to fans, staff, and players alike aim to rebuild trust and performance in the National League.​

The emphasis on fan experience in the strategic review signals a listener-oriented approach, potentially enhancing matchdays and community ties.