The intersection of sports and celebrity culture often leads to the ownership of football clubs by famous personalities. From Hollywood stars to music icons and business moguls, numerous celebrities have invested in football clubs around the world, adding glamour and intrigue to the beautiful game. Let's explore ten football clubs that are owned by well-known celebrities, showcasing the diverse interests and passions beyond the spotlight.
1. LeBron James (Liverpool)
Lebron James, hailed as one of the NBA's greatest of all time, made his mark in the basketball arena before venturing into the realm of football.
He acquired a stake in Liverpool FC when he invested in Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the club's parent company, back in 2011.
FSG doubled as James' principal marketing agency, and as part of the collaboration, he secured a 2% ownership in Liverpool, valued at approximately $6 million at the time.
2. Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney - Wrexham AFC
In a remarkable turn of events, Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds, along with fellow actor Rob McElhenney, rescued Wrexham AFC from adversity, injecting vital funds and revitalizing the club's fortunes.
Their takeover bid, initiated in November 2020, reached fruition in February 2021, ushering in a new era for the club. Since then, Wrexham AFC has undergone significant transformation, clinching the National League title and earning promotion, while also allocating $50,000 to bolster the women's team.
3. Elton John (Watford)
Renowned musician Sir Elton John's affinity for Watford dates back to his formative years, culminating in his appointment as the club's chairman in 1973.
During his tenure, he steered the club through pivotal moments, propelling Watford to their inaugural Premier League appearance in the early 1980s before relinquishing ownership in 1990.
A resurgence followed in the mid-1990s when Sir Elton John returned to Watford, reuniting with manager Graham Taylor to guide the club through another ascent from lower divisions. He stepped down as chairman in 2017, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history.
4. Will Ferrell - Los Angeles FC
Celebrated comedian and actor Will Ferrell embarked on a venture into the footballing realm as part of the ownership group of MLS franchise Los Angeles FC. Known for his passion for Football and allegiance to Chelsea FC, Ferrell's involvement in football ownership commenced in 2016.
Joining a consortium of investors, which includes prominent figures from the world of soccer and beyond such as Mia Hamm, Nomar Garciaparra, and Magic Johnson, Ferrell's stake in Los Angeles FC reflects the club's burgeoning value estimated at $4.5 billion.
5. Natalie Portman and Christiana Aguilera - Angel City FC
Beyond the realms of Los Angeles FC, celebrity ownership extends to Angel City FC, a prominent presence in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) since its inception in 2022.
With an ownership group boasting luminaries like Natalie Portman, Serena Williams, Eva Longoria, Jennifer Garner, and Billie Jean King, Angel City FC stands as a beacon for women's football, supported by former US Women's National Team players and other notable personalities.
6. Michael B. Jordan - Bournemouth
Acclaimed actor Michael B. Jordan expanded his horizons by investing in Premier League outfit Bournemouth in December 2022, inspired by the successes witnessed by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at Wrexham.
Joining an ownership consortium led by American businessman Bill Foley, Jordan's participation underscores his enthusiasm for football and his eagerness to contribute to the club's journey.
7. Matthew McConaughey - Austin FC
In a testament to the growing interest in soccer across America, actor Matthew McConaughey assumes a pivotal role in the development of MLS expansion franchise Austin FC.
As one of the primary stakeholders through his investment in Two Oaks Ventures, the parent company of Austin FC, McConaughey's Texan roots and fervent support for the club exemplify his commitment to soccer's rise in the United States.
8. Mesut Ozil, Eva Longoria & Kate Upton - Necaxa
Mexican club Necaxa underwent a transformative period with the acquisition of a 50% ownership stake by the Tylis-Porter consortium, comprising former footballers and notable personalities.
The consortium, which includes Mesut Ozil, Eva Longoria, and Kate Upton among others, injects new vigor into Necaxa, revitalizing its prospects in Mexican football.
9. David Beckham - Inter Miami
David Beckham's legacy transcends his illustrious playing career as he assumes ownership of Inter Miami, adding a new dimension to his profound impact on the sport.
Part of a select group of football players turned club owners, Beckham's investment underscores his enduring commitment to the growth and development of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States.
10. LeBron James and Drake - AC Milan
LeBron James and Drake, through their investment in RedBird Capital Partners, assume ownership stakes in Italian football powerhouse AC Milan, heralding a new era for the club.
As part of a consortium alongside Yankee Global Enterprises and a Los Angeles investment fund, RedBird Capital Partners spearheaded the €1.2 billion acquisition of AC Milan, signaling a significant chapter in the club's storied history.
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