Martha Stewart Joins Swansea City FC as Co-Owner, Boosting US Influence
UPDATE: In a surprising move, Martha Stewart has just been announced as a new minority co-owner of Swansea City FC, significantly increasing the presence of US celebrities in the world of British football. The official announcement came earlier today from owners Brett Cravatt and Jason Cohen via the club’s website.
This exclusive addition to Swansea City’s ownership group highlights the growing trend of American investors flocking to British football clubs, which promise not just rich heritage but also potential financial gains. Stewart joins an elite group of co-owners that includes Snoop Dogg and Luka Modric, who have also invested in the Welsh club, currently competing in England’s second-tier league.
The details surrounding the size of Stewart’s investment remain undisclosed, but her involvement is expected to enhance the visibility of the club. Cravatt and Cohen emphasized in their statement that this expansion in ownership will yield “increased exposure and increased visibility” for Swansea City FC.
The club’s trajectory aligns with other notable American ownerships in football. For instance, Tom Brady is a minority owner of Birmingham City, while Stewart’s friendship with Snoop Dogg, highlighted during their appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, adds a unique dynamic to this ownership group.
In a separate yet related story, Swansea City is also exploring the purchase of its council-owned stadium. This ambition reflects the club’s desire to solidify its financial standing and operational independence, as noted by the club’s Chief Executive in a recent podcast.
Stewart’s credentials as a business mogul are impressive. Often described as the first self-made female billionaire in the US, she has built an extensive retail and lifestyle brand around her catering business and is the author of 99 books. Despite facing legal challenges in the past, including a five-month prison sentence, her brand remains a household name in America.
Meanwhile, the momentum around Swansea City is palpable. Last week, the club celebrated a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Wrexham AFC, a team that has gained international attention thanks to the financial backing of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Wrexham recently received a hefty £18 million grant from the local council for stadium improvements, showcasing the financial potential for clubs outside the Premier League.
As Swansea City prepares for the upcoming season, the club’s ownership duo has tempered expectations regarding the transfer window under new head coach Vítor Matos, stating, “We do not expect the January window to be a particularly busy one for Swansea City.” They are optimistic about Matos’s experience in developing young talent, which could be crucial for the club’s future.
The excitement surrounding Stewart’s arrival has already sparked conversations among fans and stakeholders alike, with Cravatt and Cohen expressing their enthusiasm for her joining the team. “Experiencing Friday night’s game in-person has only increased her own enthusiasm and anticipation for being part of Swansea City,” they noted.
Stay tuned for more updates as Swansea City FC continues to evolve under this new ownership landscape, signaling a thrilling chapter in the club’s history. Share this development now to keep your friends in the loop about Martha Stewart’s latest venture into the sports world!
