A fund linked to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has bought a 6% stake in construction giant FCC.

FCC filed a regulatory announcement to the Spanish stock exchange commission last night confirming the deal.

Bill Gates’ fund is now the second largest shareholder in the Spanish company after Esther Koplowitz – one of Spain’s wealthiest women and leading philanthropists.

FCC is expanding its operations in the UK with a string of major projects including the £600m Mersey Bridge with Kier and a £280m motor racing circuit in Wales with Alun Griffiths.

The firm is also believed to be linking up with McLaren Construction to bid for Spurs new £400m stadium.