Liberty Global Announces Leadership Transition: Dr. John C. Malone to Become Chairman Emeritus

Liberty Global Ltd. (“Liberty Global” or the “Company”) has officially announced a significant transition in its leadership, with Dr. John C. Malone stepping down as Chairman effective January 1, 2026. He will assume the role of Chairman Emeritus, continuing to offer strategic counsel while relinquishing formal voting rights on Board matters. Mike Fries, the current Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman, will succeed Dr. Malone as Chairman of the Board.

Dr. Malone has been at the helm of Liberty Global for over 20 years, steering the company through a dynamic evolution in the telecommunications sector. Reflecting on his tenure, he stated, “Serving as Chairman of Liberty Global has been a tremendous journey,” highlighting the impressive return on investments for long-term shareholders and the excitement of navigating an ever-changing industry landscape.

Under Dr. Malone's leadership, Liberty Global has made significant strides, including investments across 50 countries and engaging in over $200 billion in mergers and acquisitions. His remarks emphasized the company’s commitment to adapting to technological advancements, particularly in digital television and gigabit broadband services.

Dr. Malone expressed strong confidence in Mike Fries, asserting that he has the vision and capability to guide Liberty Global toward continued success. “He and I have always seen eye-to-eye on how best to create value for shareholders,” Malone noted, indicating a seamless transition in leadership. Fries, who has been with the company since its inception in 2005, echoed Malone’s sentiments, praising their long-standing partnership and Malone's invaluable contributions as a mentor.

“I could not have asked for a better mentor and friend,” Fries remarked, emphasizing the significance of Malone's strategic insights in the company’s growth. He also acknowledged the support of the Board and the commitment of Liberty Global’s 30,000 employees and stakeholder network in unlocking further value for shareholders.

Following Dr. Malone’s resignation, the Liberty Global Board will consist of ten directors, with nine being independent. This structure is expected to strengthen governance and ensure that the company continues to operate with a strong focus on shareholder interests.

Liberty Global is a leader in converged broadband, video, and mobile communications, serving over 80 million fixed and mobile connections across Europe. The Company operates through three primary platforms: Liberty Telecom, Liberty Growth, and Liberty Services, collectively generating substantial revenue and positioning Liberty Global as a dominant player in the telecommunications market.

Liberty Telecom is recognized for its extensive network capabilities, generating approximately $21.6 billion in aggregate revenue, bolstered by advanced fiber and 5G infrastructure.

Liberty Growth focuses on investing in scalable businesses across various sectors, including technology and media, with a portfolio valued at around $3.4 billion.

Liberty Services provides innovative operational and financial solutions, yielding around $600 million in annual revenue, primarily from its consolidated businesses and joint ventures.

As Liberty Global prepares for this leadership change, the company remains committed to its mission of delivering long-term shareholder value through strategic management and innovation in the telecommunications sector. With Mike Fries stepping into the role of Chairman, and Dr. Malone continuing to provide his wisdom as Chairman Emeritus, the outlook for Liberty Global remains positive as it navigates the future of converged connectivity and investment.