Football today is more than just a sport, as it has evolved into a business that attracts prominent figures from various fields. From musicians and actors to athletes in other sports, many celebrities are investing in football clubs.
Their investments show how the game has grown into a global industry that connects people far beyond the pitch.
For some, investing in a football club is about passion and loyalty. Lifelong supporters like Ed Sheeran with Ipswich Town see it as a way to give back to their clubs. For others, like LeBron James or Tom Brady, it is a business move that opens doors to new markets and audiences. In both cases, their involvement brings money, attention, and new fans to the teams.
This trend is not limited to one country. From smaller English clubs to European giants and Major League Soccer sides in the U.S., celebrity ownership has spread widely. In some cases, it has even changed the fortunes of clubs, as seen with David Beckham’s Inter Miami, which gained global attention after signing Lionel Messi.
The link between sports and entertainment continues to grow, and football sits at the centre of it.
Here is a list of celebrities who have invested in football clubs
LeBron James, born on 30 December 1984, is one of the greatest basketball players in history, currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. With four championships and two Olympic gold medals, James has built a legacy far beyond basketball, expanding into business, entertainment, and philanthropy.
In 2011, LeBron purchased a minority stake in Liverpool FC, becoming one of the club’s most famous fans and stakeholders. His football portfolio grew further in 2022 when he joined investors in acquiring shares in AC Milan. His involvement shows his interest in global sports beyond basketball.
Ed Sheeran, born 17 February 1991, is an English singer-songwriter known for hits like Shape of You and Perfect. Raised in Framlingham, Suffolk, Sheeran has always been open about his support for Ipswich Town, the club closest to his hometown.
In 2024, he bought a 1.4% minority stake in Ipswich Town through the Gamechanger 20 Ltd consortium, cementing his commitment to the club he grew up supporting. Before that, he sponsored the team’s shirts from 2021. While his role is not active in management, Sheeran’s investment highlights his emotional bond with the club.
Natalie Portman and Serena Williams are part of the group of investors behind Angel City FC, a club founded in 2020 in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The team’s launch drew attention because of its strong celebrity backing and the ambition to raise the profile of women’s football in the United States.
Beyond competition, Portman, Williams, and their partners have focused on using the club as a platform for social change. Their involvement highlights a commitment to empowering women in sports and promoting broader community impact alongside sporting success.
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took over Wrexham AFC in 2020, bringing new attention to the Welsh club. The Hollywood actor and the television star became co-owners with a plan to rebuild the team and strengthen its presence on and off the pitch.
Their ownership journey has been documented in a Disney+ series, showing the club’s progress and challenges. Under their leadership, Wrexham has climbed from non-league football to the second tier of the English Football League, marking a significant step in its history.
Aubrey “Drake” Graham, born 24 October 1986, is a Canadian rapper, singer, and entrepreneur who has become one of the most successful artists in the world. Known for his crossover appeal in hip-hop and pop, Drake has expanded into fashion and business ventures.
In October 2022, Drake joined LeBron James as an investor in AC Milan. His stake, though not large, connects him with one of Europe’s most historic clubs. It reflects how international stars see football as both a cultural force and a financial opportunity.
Michael B. Jordan, born 9 February 1987, is an American actor and producer famous for roles in Creed and Black Panther. Widely celebrated in Hollywood, Jordan has consistently been ranked among the most influential and bankable actors.
In late 2022, Jordan was announced as a co-owner of Bournemouth, a Premier League side. His involvement came as part of a wider consortium, and he has since expressed enthusiasm about supporting the club’s development. Jordan’s move highlights the growing global appeal of English football.
David Beckham, born 2 May 1975, is a former England captain and one of the most recognisable footballers of all time. Known for his successful career at Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and PSG, Beckham transitioned smoothly into business and fashion after retiring.
In 2014, Beckham exercised a clause in his MLS contract that allowed him to buy an expansion team. This led to the creation of Inter Miami, which officially began competing in 2020. Beckham’s leadership was central to the club signing Lionel Messi in 2023, a landmark moment for football in the United States.
Stormzy, born 26 July 1993, is a British grime artist from Croydon who has risen to international fame. Wilfried Zaha, born 10 November 1992, is an Ivorian international footballer best known for his long spell at Crystal Palace.
In 2023, the pair teamed up to buy AFC Croydon Athletic, a non-league side in south London. Their investment is rooted in local pride, with both men having strong ties to the area. Their ownership combines community spirit with ambitions to grow the club’s profile.
Tom Brady, born 3 August 1977, is a seven-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback and one of the greatest athletes in American football history. His career with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers made him a sporting legend.
In 2023, Brady became a minority investor in Birmingham City, an English Championship club. While his role is not day-to-day, he has expressed enthusiasm about learning from football and helping the club grow, bridging the gap between American and European sports.
Will Ferrell, born 16 July 1967, is an American actor and comedian best known for Anchorman, Elf, and Step Brothers. His success in Hollywood has made him one of the most recognisable faces in comedy.
In 2019, Ferrell joined the ownership group of LAFC, an MLS side in Los Angeles. His presence brought humour and celebrity power to the club, alongside other high-profile investors like Magic Johnson. Ferrell has been an active supporter, often attending matches.
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