Faith Nyasuguta
African women are making bold moves in the global football scene, breaking into the traditionally male-dominated world of sports ownership. While the football industry has long been dominated by male investors, a growing number of African women are now claiming their space, making strategic investments in foreign football clubs and redefining what it means to be a stakeholder in global sports.
One of the latest trailblazers is Nigerian international superstar and Grammy Award-winning artist, Tems, who recently announced her investment in an American football club. Tems has joined the ownership group of San Diego FC, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team set to debut in the 2025 season. This strategic move not only highlights her entrepreneurial spirit but also makes her the first African woman to own a U.S.-based football club.
Tems, through her company The Leading Vibe, expressed her excitement about the venture, emphasizing football’s unique ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds. Known for her success in music, this new role showcases her versatility and commitment to expanding her influence beyond the entertainment industry.
But Tems is not alone. Several African women have already made their mark in football club ownership, proving that African investors, especially women, are ready to shape the global sports business. These women are not just investing in teams; they are also challenging gender norms and increasing African representation on the international stage.
Other African Women in Football Ownership:
1. Nneka Ede (Nigeria)
In 2020, Nigerian businesswoman Nneka Ede made history by acquiring a majority stake in Lusitano Ginasio Clube, a Portuguese third-division football club. Her acquisition marked a significant milestone, making her the first African woman to own a European football club. Ede’s venture into European football highlights the growing influence of African entrepreneurs in global sports, breaking barriers for future generations of African women.
2. Eniola Aluko (Nigeria)
Former England international and British-Nigerian football star Eniola Aluko has transitioned from the pitch to the boardroom. Known for her stellar playing career and role as a football executive and broadcaster, Aluko joined the Mercury 13 investment group, which has a $100 million fund focused on women’s football.
Through this partnership, she acquired a significant stake in FC Como Women, an Italian club, strengthening her position as a leader in sports investment. Her move into ownership further solidifies her influence in both football operations and business.
3. Akosua Puni Essien (Ghana)
Ghanaian businesswoman and philanthropist Akosua Puni Essien made waves in 2017 when she purchased Italian club Como 1907 for €237,000 after it went bankrupt. This acquisition made her one of the first African women to own a European football club. Puni Essien, also known as the wife of former Ghanaian football star Michael Essien, has carved her own path in football management, showcasing her commitment to the sport beyond her husband’s legacy.
These African women are reshaping the landscape of football ownership, proving that African influence in global sports is growing stronger. Their investments highlight a shift toward diversity and inclusion in sports business, inspiring future generations of African women to dream bigger and aim higher.
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