The landscape of professional sports ownership is evolving, as evidenced by actress and producer Issa Rae’s recent announcement of joining the ownership group for Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion team San Diego FC. This marks a significant moment not only for Rae but for the broader context of diversity and representation within sports ownership. San Diego FC is set to debut its inaugural season on February 23 against the esteemed LA Galaxy, the reigning MLS champions. This game promises to be more than just a kickoff; it symbolizes a cultural shift and emphasizes the growing importance of diverse voices in sports management.
San Diego FC’s primary ownership includes prominent figures such as billionaire Mohamed Mansour and the Sycuan Tribe, who have made history by becoming the first Native American tribe to hold an ownership stake in a professional soccer team. This partnership emphasizes the integration of marginalized voices at the helm of sports franchises. Rae’s investment, announced Tuesday, aligns her with other notable club partners like MLB star Manny Machado and Juan Mata, a former player for Manchester United and the Spanish national team. Their involvement not only enriches the ownership group but also reflects the blending of different cultures and experiences within the sport.
In a statement regarding her new role, Issa Rae articulated a passionate vision for the future of San Diego FC. She stated, “Soccer is a universal language that has the power to bring people together.” This perspective underscores the belief that sports can unite diverse communities and foster inclusivity. Rae’s enthusiasm is not just limited to her financial investment; it extends to a genuine commitment to the team’s mission of making an impact both on and off the field. The prospect of her influence could prove invaluable as San Diego FC navigates its formative years.
Rae’s partnership with Pave Investments, an African private equity firm known for facilitating NBA Africa investments, speaks volumes about her commitment to enhancing representation in sports. This partnership introduces additional layers of investment and expertise to San Diego FC, promoting an ethos of global collaboration and opportunity within the realm of soccer. The inclusion of Pave’s leadership—Chairman Tunde Folawiyo and Founding Director Kwamena Afful—further diversifies the ownership team, bringing in voices from different backgrounds and experiences.
Known for her groundbreaking work on HBO’s “Insecure,” which she co-created and co-wrote, Issa Rae has repeatedly demonstrated her dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices. In addition to her film roles in titles such as “Barbie” and “The Hate U Give,” Rae has penned the memoir “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl,” solidifying her role as an advocate for marginalized communities and civil rights. By stepping into the world of sports ownership, Rae not only elevates her brand but also challenges the conventional demographics of sports franchise ownership.
As San Diego FC embarks on this exciting journey, the presence of Issa Rae and her fellow owners heralds a new chapter in Major League Soccer, reflecting the transformative power of diversity in sports.
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