Which Celebs Own MLS Teams?
The other day a buddy of mine asked me which celebrities own MLS teams. I tried to think…Lebron? Justin Timberlake? Taylor Swift?
None of those 👆
The celebs that own a part of MLS teams might come as a surprise. It might not. Here they are:
- Will Ferrell, Actor (LAFC)
- David Beckham, Former Professional Soccer Player (Inter Miami)
- Matthew McConaughey, Actor (Austin FC)
- Russell Wilson, NFL (Seattle Sounders)
- Ciara, Singer (Seattle Sounders)
- Drew Carey, Host (Seattle Sounders)
- Reese Witherspoon, Actress (Nashville SC)
- Giannis Antetokounmpo, NBA (Nashville SC)
- Derrick Henry, NFL (Nashville SC)
- Yo Gotti, Rapper (DC United)
- Mark Ingram III, NFL (DC United)
- James Harden, NBA (Houston Dynamo)
- Oscar de la Hoya, Former Boxer (Houston Dynamo)
- Kevin Durant, NBA (Philadelphia Union)
- Steve Nash, Former NBA Player (Vancouver Whitecaps)
Keep in mind that these celebs own a piece (some very small) of a team. The majority of owners are typically very wealthy people or organizations.
Pretty wild list if you ask me! Some of the ones that surprised me were Reese Whitherspoon, Steve Nash, and Giannis.
I still feel like the MLS is in its infancy and there’s potential for celebrities to get in and build up equity.
Some celebrities like Will Ferrell and Matthew McConaughey are more vocal about the sport and promoting it.
While others are more silent and attend games here and there.
What is the Impact of Celebrity Ownership on MLS Teams?
The impact of celebrity ownership on MLS teams can be significant, both in terms of financial investment and public relations.
Celebrities are often in the public eye, and their involvement can generate media coverage and interest in the team.
This increased exposure can lead to higher attendance at games, more merchandise sales, and greater sponsorship opportunities.
Also, celebrities often have significant financial resources and can invest in the team’s infrastructure, facilities, and player development.
This investment can lead to improved performance on the field and greater success for the team.
In addition to financial investment, celebrity owners can also provide valuable connections and resources.
For example, Will Ferrell, one of the owners of LAFC, has used his connections in Hollywood to create a documentary series about the team.
This type of exposure can help attract new fans and generate interest in the team.
Will We See More Celebrities Be a Part of MLS?
I think we’ll see more celebrities jump ship to the MLS. Right now, it’s still a bargain to own compared to the NFL and NBA.
The catalyst in my opinion will be the 2026 World Cup coming to North America.
The sport of soccer will be popularized and glorified. We’ll see the potential it has when international fans flock to the stadiums.
Who knows, maybe I’ll be right with Lebron, Tay Swift, and Justin Timberlake owning a part of an MLS club.
Written By: Beau Bridges
Founder of SoccerNovo
I’m Beau 👋 a proud dad of an MLS NEXT player, former soccer coach, soccer enthusiast, and board member of our local youth sports program. I created soccernovo.com to share my knowledge of the game and help parents learn more about youth soccer in the U.S. I also authored an eBook ‘Soccer Coach Made Simple‘. Learn more about Beau.
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