Rangers vice-chairman Paraag Marathe has stepped down from his role at Ibrox following discussions with UEFA over multi-club ownership regulations. Marathe, who also serves as chairman of Leeds United, was central to the 49ers Enterprises takeover of Rangers alongside Andrew Cavenagh earlier this year.
The move, which also sees director Gene Schneur vacate his post, aims to ensure Rangers' compliance with UEFA rules that prohibit individuals from having influence over two clubs that could compete in the same European competition. A similar scenario occurred with Crystal Palace, who were demoted to the Conference League after finishing lower in their domestic division than Lyon, another club within the same ownership group.
Despite these changes, the ownership model under the 49ers remains unchanged. Marathe's departure comes amid a turbulent period for Rangers, which saw the ill-fated appointment of manager Russell Martin and a poor summer recruitment drive. However, since Martin, sporting director Kevin Thelwell, and CEO Patrick Stewart were dismissed, the club's fortunes have improved under Danny Rohl, who has led Rangers back into the Scottish title race as the closest challengers to Hearts.
