Jude Bellingham has expanded his footprint beyond football, investing a seven-figure sum to acquire a minority stake in Birmingham Phoenix.
The Real Madrid and England midfielder, who grew up near Birmingham, joins the ownership structure of the Edgbaston-based franchise as a minority stakeholder. The move strengthens his ties to the city where his professional career first took shape.
The investment follows a separate deal in which Knighthead Capital Management acquired a 49% stake in Birmingham Phoenix. The US-based group also owns Birmingham City FC, Bellingham’s former club, further linking the ownership ecosystem across sports in the region. Meanwhile, Warwickshire County Cricket Club retains majority control with a 51% stake.
Bellingham said the decision was driven by both personal connection and a broader vision for sport accessibility. A long-time supporter of Birmingham, he highlighted his desire to give back to the city while promoting opportunities for young people to engage in sport — whether football or cricket.
While his football commitments limit day-to-day involvement, the 20-year-old views the investment as a platform to inspire participation and visibility, particularly for those who may not otherwise have access to multiple sporting pathways.
The move reflects a growing trend of elite athletes diversifying into sports ownership, as cross-sport investments become an increasingly strategic way to build influence, expand brand value, and support community engagement initiatives.