Former José Manuel Calderón is continuing to build out his post-playing business portfolio, joining the latest funding round of Spanish electric motorcycle company Velca.
According to reports, Calderón is set to invest up to €2.5 million, becoming a shareholder as part of the company’s fifth financing round. The round also includes notable investors such as Ignacio Rivera and Jesús Esmoris.
Backing Growth in Electric Mobility
Founded in 2020, Velca specialises in electric motorcycles and has positioned itself as a growing player in Spain’s mobility sector.
Despite a contracting motorcycle market — with just over 6,200 new registrations in 2025 — the company posted 62% annual growth, reaching a 14.4% market share in the private segment.
Velca has previously raised capital from investors including BeHappy Investments and Sego Ventures, as well as high-profile backers like Marian Mouriño and Carmen Lence.
Calderón’s Growing Business Footprint
Calderón, who enjoyed a long career in the NBA with teams including the Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers, has increasingly shifted focus toward business and investment since retiring.
He recently joined Spanish sock manufacturer Podoks as a strategic partner, targeting growth across performance sports, occupational health and international expansion.
Alongside his investment activities, Calderón has also remained connected to basketball, serving as an advisor to the Cleveland Cavaliers since 2022.
The Bigger Picture
For Calderón, the move into electric mobility reflects a broader trend among former athletes — leveraging career earnings into high-growth, future-facing industries.
For Velca, meanwhile, the addition of high-profile investors comes at a critical stage, as the company looks to scale operations and expand its footprint in a competitive European market.