NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE — Canadian David Hopkinson, former chief commercial officer for Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, has been named CEO of England's Newcastle United.
Hopkinson succeeds Darren Eales, a former executive of West Bromwich Albion, Tottenham, and Atlanta United, who is stepping down due to health reasons.
The Canadian joins the storied English soccer club from New York where he served as president and CEO of Madison Square Garden Sports and led the business operations of the New York Rangers and Knicks.
Before that, Hopkinson was global head of partnerships at Real Madrid.
Hokinson was with MLSE from 1994 to 2018 in various roles including senior vice-president of global partnerships and marketing and chief commercial officer.
He has also served on the board of directors for Canada Basketball since 2023.
"I am incredibly honoured to join Newcastle United at such an exciting time in the club's history," Hopkinson said in a statement. "This club represents something truly special. It has extraordinary history and heritage, incredibly passionate supporters, and ownership, players and staff who are committed to excellence."
Newcastle (0-1-2) currently stands 17th in the English Premier League.
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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 4, 2025
The Canadian Press
