CNN
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Entrepreneur and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian continues to invest in women’s sports by purchasing minority stakes in women at British football club Chelsea FC.
The 42-year-old, who is now sitting on the board, announced the deal Thursday, saying he is “prideful” to help the “iconic club” become America’s most popular women’s super league (WSL) team.
Chelsea is already one of the most successful teams in women’s soccer, and recently secured six straight league titles without losing one game.
The team is currently looking for domestic highs that can be completed when they face Manchester United in the Women’s FA Cup final held at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
“These players are rewriting the game. An undefeated season. Look at Treble. But this isn’t just about winning the title. Finally, talent is worthy of resources, visibility and respect.”
“I was right about this before and couldn’t be more excited.”
British media reported Wednesday that Ohanian had purchased a 10% share of the club worth more than $26 million. That was the number he appeared to confirm by screenshotting the photos of the article that referenced the illustration.
Chelsea confirmed a new investment in Thursday’s statement, saying the Ohanians “bringed him with a wealth of experience, energy and passion for women’s sports that will help bring Chelsea women to the next level and shed light on the possibilities of sports in the UK.
The club did not confirm details regarding the transaction, but CNN Sports reached the club for comment.
In a statement on social media, Ohanian also praised Chelsea’s new female CEO, Aki Mandar.
“The focus on her integrity and standards of excellence was a big factor in why this is such a ‘yes’ type of investment,” he added.
It’s not the first time Ohanian has invested in women’s soccer.
In 2022 he was the founder of Los Angeles-based team Angel City FC and currently plays for the National Women’s Football League (NWSL), the top division of women’s soccer in the United States.
After a massive acquisition agreement in 2024, the club has become the world’s most valuable female professional sports team.
Ohanian also founded Aslos, a women-only track and field event that debuted last year. The event aims to provide $60,000 to race winners and advocate for female athletes around the world.