Nigerian music star Tems has become a part-owner of San Diego FC, a Major League Soccer MLS club set to debut in the league this year. The Lagos-born singer, songwriter, and producer joins an esteemed ownership group that includes actress Issa Rae, World Cup winner Juan Mata, U.S. Navy SEAL veteran Jocko Willink, and MLB All-Star Manny .
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The announcement, made via San Diego FC’s official website, highlights Tems' involvement through her company, The Leading Vibe, marking a significant step in her expansion into the sports business.
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San Diego FC’s Chairman, Sir Mohamed Mansour, expressed his excitement over Tems’ addition to the ownership group, stating that her global influence aligns with the club’s mission, which is deeply connected to African football development through the Right to Dream Academy.
Tems herself spoke about her excitement, saying:Football has a unique way of bringing people together, and I am excited to help build something special in San Diego, a city that thrives on diversity and innovation."
Her involvement comes in partnership with Pave Investments, an African private investment firm previously engaged in NBA Africa’s financial expansion. Tunde Folawiyo and Kwamena Afful, key figures at Pave Investments, will also be part of San Diego FC’s ownership structure.
With this move, Tems becomes one of the few African artists to hold ownership in a professional sports franchise, showcasing the increasing intersection between music, culture, and sports business.
Editorial
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Tems’ entry into sports ownership is an important moment, not only for African creatives but for the broader sports and entertainment industry. Historically, football ownership has been dominated by businessmen, former athletes, and corporate investors. However, the rise of cultural figures investing in clubs from LeBron James’ stake in Liverpool to Jay-Z’s involvement in sports marketing signals a shifting landscape in the global sports business.
We see Tems’ investment in San Diego FC as a significant step for African representation in global football governance. As someone who has broken barriers in the music industry, her move into the sports business opens doors for more African entertainers and entrepreneurs to consider investments beyond their traditional fields.
Additionally, San Diego FC’s connection to the Right to Dream Academy creates a bridge between African talent development and North American football. If properly managed, this could become a critical pipeline for African players to transition into the MLS and eventually, Europe’s top leagues.
We believe this move reflects a wider trend of cross-industry collaboration. As music and football continue to shape global culture, figures like Teams will play an essential role in redefining what sports ownership looks like in the 21st century.
This is not just an investment in a football club it’s an investment in culture, talent development, and the African sports ecosystem. The impact of this decision will likely extend far beyond the pitch.
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Did You Know?
San Diego FC is set to become the 30th team in Major League Soccer MLS when they make their league debut in 2025.
Tems won her first Grammy Award in 2023 for her collaboration on Future’s hit song "Wait for U", making her the first Nigerian female artist to win the prestigious award.
The Right to Dream Academy, which is linked to San Diego FC, has produced several African football stars, including Mohammed Kudus West Ham and Kamaldeen Sulemana Southampton.
Other celebrities with stakes in football clubs include LeBron James Liverpool, Will Ferrell LAFC, and Ryan Reynolds Wrexham AFC.
MLS has seen an influx of African talent in recent years, with players like Didier Drogba, Obafemi Martins, and Kei Kamara leaving a mark on the league.