Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of the Reddit platform and husband of tennis legend Serena Williams, confirmed his investment in Chelsea’s women’s team. According to reports, the American businessman acquired a 10% stake in the club for almost $26.6 million (about £20 million), although Chelsea has not yet issued an official statement. Ohanian expressed on social networks that his goal is to “match their talent with the resources and respect they deserve.”
The announcement was made via LinkedIn, where Ohanian wrote: “I’ve bet big on women’s sports before, and I’m doing it again. I’m proud to join Chelsea Women FC as an investor and board member. It’s an honor to help this iconic club become an all-American favorite in the WSL and beyond.”
Chelsea Women FC seeks FA Cup treble
The Chelsea Women’s team, led by Sonia Bompastor, has had an undefeated season in the Women’s Super League. This Sunday, they will look to complete a domestic treble by taking on Manchester United in the Women’s FA Cup final at Wembley. Of the team, Ohanian commented, “These players are rewriting the game. Undefeated season. With our sights set on the treble. But this isn’t just about winning titles, it’s about matching their talent with the resources, visibility and respect they deserve.”
The businessman also praised Aki Mandhar, chief executive of Chelsea’s women’s team, highlighting her integrity and focus on excellence as key factors in his investment decision.
A team valued at £200 million
The amount of the investment, initially reported by the ‘Times’, values the Chelsea women’s team at £200 million, about $226.7 million. This figure matches the valuation made last year when the club’s parent company sold the women’s section to Blueco 22 Midco Ltd, in a move related to meeting the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules.
Ohanian appeared to confirm the figure by responding on X (formerly Twitter) to a post mentioning the £20 million with the phrase: “Up the Chels!”.
Ohanian’s ventures into women’s soccer
Prior to his investment in Chelsea, Ohanian had already made a bet on women’s soccer by investing in Angel City, an independent club based in Los Angeles. This team was sold last year for a record $250 million in the NWSL to Disney CEO Bob Iger.
With this new investment, Ohanian reinforces his commitment to the development and visibility of women’s soccer, highlighting the importance of providing the resources necessary for players to reach their full potential.
