Nigerian singer and Grammy-winning artist Tems has officially become a part-owner of San Diego FC, marking a significant step in the intersection of music and sports investment. Her involvement, facilitated in collaboration with African private investment firm Pave Investments, strengthens the club’s diverse and growing ownership group.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Tems stated, “I am thrilled to join San Diego FC’s ownership group and be part of a club that celebrates creativity, culture, and community. Football unites people in a powerful way, and I’m eager to help build something special in San Diego.” Her statement underscores the increasing influence of global culture in football ownership and the sport’s ability to bring together communities from different backgrounds.
Tems joins an elite group of San Diego FC investors, including prominent figures such as actress and producer Issa Rae, former Spanish footballer Juan Mata, retired U.S. Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, and Major League Baseball star Manny Machado. This diverse ownership group reflects the club’s broader commitment to inclusivity and innovation within the world of football.
Her investment is part of a growing trend of high-profile celebrities entering the sports business world. In recent years, stars like Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have famously revitalized Wrexham AFC, while basketball icon LeBron James holds a stake in Liverpool FC. Tennis legend Serena Williams has also ventured into football ownership through Angel City FC. These investments highlight the increasing appeal of sports franchises as lucrative and culturally significant business ventures.
Tems’ career has been on a meteoric rise, with multiple accolades recognizing her impact on the music industry. In February, she secured her second Grammy Award for her hit song “Love Me JeJe,” following her previous win for collaborating on Future’s track “Wait for U.” Additionally, her songwriting prowess earned her an Academy Award nomination for co-writing Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up,” featured in the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack.
With her latest move into sports ownership, Tems continues to expand her influence beyond music, reinforcing her role as a trailblazer in the global entertainment industry. Her investment in San Diego FC represents a fusion of music, culture, and sport, promising to elevate the club’s profile while inspiring future generations to explore diverse business opportunities beyond their primary fields of expertise.
As San Diego FC prepares for its upcoming season, the addition of Tems to the ownership team brings a fresh perspective and global appeal to the club, ensuring that its ambitions extend far beyond the football pitch.