Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham expands sporting investments by acquiring stake in cricket franchise

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has bought a stake in The Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix. He has purchased a 1.2 percent stake, which has a value of around 1 million pound. The franchise is co-owned by Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Knighthead Capital, an investment fund from the USA. Knighthead was the owner of 49 percent, but his stake has come down to 48.4 percent, following the entry of the footballer.

The 22-year-old has invested in a 0.6 percent stake each from Warwickshire and Knighthead. He played for Birmingham City Football Club and was the youngest first-team player at 16 years old. He then moved to German Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund for a reported 22.75 million pounds before agreeing to play for Real Madrid for 88 million pounds in 2023.

He also loves cricket and is a fan of Hagley Cricket Club.

“I love Birmingham and cricket as well. The moment I got a chance to invest in the game, I didn’t think twice. I am happy to be a part of the team,” Bellingham said in a statement, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“I was given the best training in football in Birmingham. I owe something to the place. I am busy with football, but if there is a way to help, I am ready to do it in a good way,” he added.

Warwickshire said that Bellingham’s investment will help in community engagement.

“It is important for kids to play sports. I want to help people realise that there are different ways to play sports. Some enjoy football, some enjoy cricket,” Bellingham mentioned.

“I had the option of playing cricket and football when I was growing up. Some kids don’t have opportunities. It is important that we can give them chances in sports,” he concluded.