Reddit co-founder and founder of Seven Seven Six, Alexis Ohanian, has joined Chelsea FC Women as a minority investor.
The tech mogul has reportedly invested around £20m into the footballing giant, valuing Chelsea FC Women at more than £200m. The club completed the domestic treble on Sunday and has won the last six Women’s Super League titles.
Ohanian, who is married to tennis legend Serena Williams, has previously invested in women’s football, having been the largest shareholder in NWSL side Angel City FC before it was sold for a record £192m.
Chelsea Women says Ohanian’s investment signals a new era for the women’s game and confirms its potential for growth.
The investment will enable the club to continue investing in the facilities for its players and supporters, commercial resources to continue to grow women’s football globally, and its squad and academy.
The club ownership group continues to be the controlling shareholder of Chelsea Women.
“This is a landmark day in the history of Chelsea Women and for women’s football in Europe and beyond,” said Aki Mandhar, CEO of Chelsea FC Women.
“This investment is validation of the club’s past success but more importantly it is yet another proof point in the market of the persistent growth and potential of women’s football.
“We continue to lead the way, on and off the pitch, for players and for our fans and brands, empowering and inspiring future athletes and the next generation of sports fans.
“As a club, we are unapologetically ambitious and this investment is proof that the opportunities for growth in the business of women’s football are endless. There is no greater champion of investing in the future of girls and women’s sports than Alexis, and we are incredibly proud to welcome him to the club.”
Ohanian added: “As founding control owner of Angel City FC, I’ve seen the opportunity to create and grow a worldwide brand within women’s football, and I’m confident Chelsea FC Women is the next global women’s sports brand.
“I’m so thrilled to build with Aki and the team as we grow the club’s footprint and impact.”