The world of football club ownership has transformed significantly over the years. What once began with community groups, churches, and university students running local teams has evolved into a high-stakes arena dominated by billionaires, global corporations, and powerful investment groups.
Despite this shift, a variety of ownership models still exist—some clubs remain deeply rooted in their communities, while others are shaped by complex webs of stakeholders and international investors.
In recent years, a new and fascinating trend has emerged: celebrities from the entertainment industry stepping into the world of football ownership.
Inspired in part by the global spotlight on Wrexham AFC—whose resurgence under the ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has captured hearts worldwide—many stars are now investing in clubs across various leagues.
1. Wrexham AFC
Owners: Ryan Reynolds (actor) & Rob McElhenney (actor)
Since 2020, the Hollywood duo have transformed Wrexham into a global sensation, gaining promotion to League Two and increasing the club’s value through their Disney+ docuseries Welcome to Wrexham.
2. Inter Miami CF
Owner: David Beckham (former footballer, celebrity icon)
Co-founded the club and brought global superstars like Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba to MLS.
3. AFC Bournemouth
Minor Owner: Michael B. Jordan (actor)
Jordan became a minority stakeholder in 2022 when the club was bought by American businessman Bill Foley.
4. Ashton United FC
Owner: Ricky Hatton (boxer)
The former boxing world champion owns the 7th-tier club and is passionate about grassroots football.
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5. Real Valladolid
Owner: Ronaldo Nazário (Brazilian football legend)
Spain (La Liga / Segunda División)
Purchased a majority stake in 2018 and has overseen both relegation and promotion cycles.
6. Hollywood United FC
Players/Supporters: Celebs like Anthony LaPaglia, Jason Statham, and Vinnie Jones
Not a pro team, but a celebrity-heavy semi-pro side used in charity matches and community events.
7. Angel City FC
Owners: Natalie Portman, Serena Williams, Eva Longoria, Jessica Chastain (and others)
This high-profile ownership group made headlines for promoting women’s football with a Hollywood-powered brand.
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8. Racing Club de Murcia
Owner: Morris Pagniello (agent) — with public interest from celebrities including Michael Essien
A club often linked with football celebs looking to start ownership portfolios.
9. Miami FC
Investor: Pitbull (rapper/entrepreneur)
The Miami-born artist is part of the club’s branding push and owns shares in the second-tier side.
10. N’Golo Kanté – Royal Excelsior Virton
Role: Owner (since June 2023)
Club: Royal Excelsior Virton, Belgian 3rd division
Context: Kanté bought the club—while still playing in Saudi—in June 2023 for around €1M. He aims to rebuild the academy and professional staff.
A heartfelt gesture focusing on youth development rather than ego or profit: a champion shaping a club in his own values.
11. Lionel Messi & Luis Suárez – Deportivo LSM
Roles: Co-founders/owners (2025)
Club: Deportivo LSM (formerly Deportivo LS), Uruguay 4th division
Context: Originally founded by Suárez in 2018, the club was rebranded in May 2025 to include Messi (“M” added to LSM). The duo now lead the club’s youth-to-professional project and social initiatives.
A real “friends & family” endeavor rooted in community and football vision — not an Instagram vanity project.
12. Ed Sheeran
Club: Ipswich Town FC
Role: 1.4 % passive owner (since August 2024)
Lifelong fan and front-of-shirt sponsor since 2021 Bought 1.4 % stake via Gamechanger 20 Ltd; no board seat, but he does have an executive box and designed the club’s third kit His global presence has helped recruit players—he even joined a Zoom call during a transfer—and brought worldwide attention to Ipswich’s Premier League return
LeBron’s Football Investments
Liverpool FC (English Premier League)
In 2011, LeBron acquired a 2% stake in Liverpool FC by teaming up with FSG. This was part of a marketing and partnership deal with Fenway Sports Management .
In 2021, he elevated his involvement by becoming an official partner in FSG, converting his Liverpool stake into part of the broader group, now holding roughly 1% of FSG — giving him a share not only in Liverpool but also in the Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Penguins, and other sports assets .
AC Milan (Serie A, Italy)
In August 2022, LeBron became a passive investor in AC Milan as part of a consortium led by RedBird Capital Partners and Yankees Global Enterprises; Drake was involved too
