Star-Studded Sports Investments: Celebs Who Own A Piece Of The Game

Reese Witherspoon's Nashville Connection

Reese Witherspoon, the Southern belle of Hollywood, didn't miss a beat when she had the chance to invest in her hometown's soccer scene. Alongside her then-husband Jim Toth, she snagged a stake in Nashville SC just before the grand opening of Geodis Park, the largest soccer-specific stadium in America. Growing up in Nashville, Witherspoon was thrilled to support the city she loves by investing in its premier football club in 2022.

Justin Timberlake's Memphis Love Affair

Speaking of hometown pride, Justin Timberlake is another star who's all in for his roots. Back in 2012, the Memphis native became a minority partner in the Memphis Grizzlies, heading a consortium of investors and claiming a 2.9% stake in the NBA team for $5 million. Timberlake's courtside presence at FedExForum is as regular as clockwork, and his celebrity status continues to shine a spotlight on the basketball franchise.

“It’s more than just a financial investment – it’s about giving back to the city that raised me,” Timberlake once said about his Grizzlies involvement.

Natalie Portman's Angelic Venture

Natalie Portman co-founded the National Women's Soccer League club Angel City FC in 2020 and has been a pivotal figure ever since. Alongside other A-list investors like Serena Williams and Christina Aguilera, Portman has helped transform the LA-based team into a powerhouse. In 2024, Disney CEO Bob Iger and his wife Willow Bay bought the club for a record-breaking $250 million, making it the world's most valuable women's sports team.

Drake's Italian Dream

Drake isn't just making waves in the music industry; he's also a major player in European soccer. In 2022, the Canadian rapper grabbed a minority stake in AC Milan with LeBron James. But that wasn't the end of his Italian adventure – in 2023, he stepped in to save Venezia FC from bankruptcy with a $46 million investment. His brand, NOCTA, even became the club's kit sponsor, ensuring Venezia's spot in Serie A.

Paul McCartney's NFL Surprise

Legendary Beatle Paul McCartney's sports affiliations might raise a few eyebrows. Known for his love of Liverpool FC and Everton, McCartney's unexpected NFL connection came in 2019 when he was gifted a share of the Green Bay Packers. This surprising twist adds another layer to the music icon's storied career.

Anne Hathaway Sails into Sports Ownership

Oscar-winner Anne Hathaway joined a groundbreaking women-led consortium to acquire the Red Bull Italy SailGP Team in May. Her involvement marks a significant milestone, as the group is the first women-led ownership in SailGP, celebrating mixed-gender competition and global appeal. Hathaway's friend, investor Gian Luca Passi de Preposulo, helped draw her into this unique sporting venture.

David Letterman's Racing Legacy

Talk show legend David Letterman has his name in lights at Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. Since becoming a co-owner in 1996, Letterman has added a dash of celebrity flair to the team, which boasts 30 wins and a 1992 championship. Partnering with Indy 500 champion Bobby Rahal, Letterman's presence remains a pivotal part of the team's legacy.

Matthew McConaughey: Austin's Cultural Minister

Academy Award-winner Matthew McConaughey joined the ownership of Austin FC in 2019, taking on the unique role of 'Minister of Culture.' While his exact stake is under wraps, McConaughey's involvement goes beyond financial backing – he actively connects the club with the local community, leveraging his Hollywood fame to boost its profile.

Snoop Dogg's Welsh Adventure

The world of English football got a taste of hip-hop when Snoop Dogg joined Swansea City AFC as a minority co-owner. Teaming up with American businessmen Brett Cravatt and Jason Cohen, and AC Milan's Luka Modrić, Snoop aims to enhance the team's international visibility. With actress Mindy Kaling already on board since 2016, the Welsh club is strengthening its celebrity appeal.

Ed Sheeran's Ipswich Passion

Ed Sheeran, a lifelong Ipswich Town fan, bought a 1.4% minority stake in the club in 2023 for over $2.7 million. The singer, who’s been the club’s shirt sponsor since 2021, secured an executive box at Portman Road as part of the deal. Sheeran's excitement was palpable, calling it "any football fan’s dream" to own part of their beloved club.

Michelle Williams: Empowering Women's Basketball

Since 2006, Michelle Williams has been a minority owner of the Chicago Sky, highlighting her dedication to women’s empowerment. Her involvement was a catalyst for her manager, Mathew Knowles, to invest, and she remains a passionate supporter of the team.

Will Ferrell's Football Fervor

Comedy king Will Ferrell became a co-owner of LAFC in 2016, sharing ownership with Magic Johnson and Mia Hamm, among others. The club debuted in the MLS in 2018, reflecting Ferrell's love of the game. In 2024, he expanded his football interests by investing in English Premier League side Leeds United.

Elizabeth Banks: A New Chapter in Boston

Elizabeth Banks is bringing her star power to Boston Legacy FC, the newest NWSL team set to debut in the 2026/27 season. A Massachusetts native, Banks chose her home state over Los Angeles, aiming to boost women's sports and give back to the local community.

Usher's Investment Strikes Gold

Usher's 2005 investment in the Cleveland Cavaliers has paid off big time. His initial $9 million stake has ballooned as the team's value soared from $375 million to $4.35 billion. Though less involved publicly, Usher's ownership adds significant credibility to the team.

Heidi Klum's Pickleball Passion

Supermodel Heidi Klum is part of the star-studded ownership of the Chicago Slice pickleball team. Along with tennis legend Chris Evert and Cubs owner Tom Ricketts, Klum has helped elevate the team to the top of Major League Pickleball.

Vince Vaughn's Pickleball Play

Vince Vaughn, known for his comedic chops, took a serious interest in pickleball by buying a majority stake in the Coachella Valley Scorpions in 2023. Vaughn's involvement has brought new energy to the Champions Pro franchise.

Russell Crowe: The Rabbitohs' Savior

Russell Crowe’s love for the South Sydney Rabbitohs led him to purchase a controlling stake in the NRL club in 2006. His passion and business acumen helped the team secure a Premiership Trophy in 2014. Despite a lucrative buyout offer, Crowe remains committed to his beloved club.

Eva Longoria: A Global Sports Mogul

Eva Longoria's diverse sports investments span continents. She's co-owner of Angel City FC, Club Necaxa, and La Equidad, and even has interests in Welsh side Wrexham AFC. Her portfolio also includes stakes in emerging US sports like padel and pickleball.

Ryan Reynolds: Hollywood's Sports Mogul

Ryan Reynolds has turned his sports investments into a global phenomenon. His 2020 purchase of Wrexham AFC with Rob McElhenney was just the beginning. He's since expanded into Latin America and beyond, with stakes in Club Necaxa, La Equidad, and even an Australian SailGP team. Reynolds' ventures cement his status as a leading figure in the world of sports ownership.