Nigerian artist Tems has recently cemented her status as a trailblazer in the sports world by joining the ownership group of San Diego FC ahead of their expansion into Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2025. This landmark move not only highlights her own multifaceted career as a Grammy-winning and Oscar-nominated singer but also signifies a groundbreaking moment for African women in sports ownership in the United States. Tems becomes the first African woman to have a stake in a professional sports team in the country.
With her participation, San Diego FC is set to benefit from the global reach that Tems represents. As Sir Mohamed Mansour, the chairman of San Diego FC, notes, her presence brings an opportunity to engage a broader audience, tapping into both her artistic influence and her personal journey. Tems expressed her excitement on social media, emphasizing her connection to football and her belief in the sport’s ability to unite communities through creativity and culture.
Tems’s attachment to football runs deep, tracing back to her childhood when she often watched her brother play the sport. This personal connection adds a layer of authenticity to her ownership role, suggesting that her investment will go beyond the financials—she aims to nurture a culture around the game that resonates with fans and players alike. Tems’s background in music and her understanding of creative expression parallels her vision for San Diego FC; she intends to infuse artistry and community spirit into the football club.
Moreover, Tems has plans to collaborate with the Right to Dream Academy, an organization dedicated to developing young talents, thus bringing her commitment to uplifting underserved communities full circle. The melding of her passions for music, football, and philanthropy exemplifies the multifaceted ways in which artists can contribute to societal growth and inspiration.
Tems’s entry into sports ownership is part of a broader trend where African women are breaking ground in football ownership roles, especially in international arenas. Akosua Puni Essien made headlines in 2017 when she became the first African woman to purchase a foreign club, buying Como FC in Italy. Her commitment to the legacy of the century-old club not only marked a significant achievement for African women but laid the groundwork for further investment in women’s football. Unfortunately, business disputes have since ensued regarding ownership and club restructuring, showcasing the complexities involved in sports management and ownership.
Eniola Aluko, another notable example, acquired a majority stake in the FC Como women’s team in 2024, thus amplifying the voices and visibility of women in sport. Aluko’s experience as a former player and her role in sports management provide her with a unique perspective, allowing her to advocate for the elevation of women’s football through strategic investments and community engagement. Her vision aligns with the ongoing dialogues aimed at altering perceptions of women’s sports.
Furthermore, Nneka Ede joins this wave of change, becoming the second African woman to own a foreign club when she purchased Lusitano Ginasio Club Futebol in Portugal. As a former semi-professional player, her goal is to foster talent development while bridging gaps in the football landscape between Nigeria and Portugal. Ede’s strong commitment to nurturing young players reflects a growing acknowledgment that ownership involves social responsibility, extending opportunities within the sport.
The increasing presence of African women in football ownership roles signals a significant shift in the narrative surrounding sports, particularly in countries where such initiatives have been historically limited. These women are not only creating spaces for themselves but are also paving the way for emerging talent and next-generation leaders in the industry.
As Tems takes this bold step, many will be watching closely to see how her unique blend of creativity and ambition will influence San Diego FC and the broader soccer community. Her excitement resonates with fans and illustrates that art and athletics can coexist and thrive together. With the growing influence of African women in sports, the future looks promising—challenges remain, but the commitment to transforming the landscape of football ownership is stronger than ever.
The emergence of diverse and innovative leaders in sports ownership is a promising development for the entire industry, reflecting a blend of cultures, backgrounds, and ambitions. The involvement of women like Tems, Aluko, and Ede offers hope and potential for a richer, more inclusive future in football.
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