Canadian rapper Drake has expanded his portfolio by becoming an investor in Serie A club Venezia through APEX Capital. This move comes after APEX acquired a minority stake in the Italian team, following their promotion to Serie A. The confirmation of Drake’s involvement in the project has sparked excitement among fans and investors alike.
Drake’s sub-brand NOCTA, created in collaboration with Nike, will serve as the official kit sponsor for Venezia FC. This partnership signifies a significant step towards bridging the gap between culture and sports. According to Drake’s management team spokesman Matte Babel, the partnership with Venezia FC represents the perfect intersection of sport and culture, combining the rich history and vibrant culture of Venice.
Italian sports brand Kappa had previously been the kit sponsors for Venezia before the switch to Nike in 2021. The move to Nike was reportedly aimed at giving the club more creative control over its kits, allowing them to work with creative agencies like Bureau Borsche for jersey designs. This transition reflects Venezia FC’s commitment to leveraging the global popularity of football to shine a spotlight on the cultural significance of Venice.
Venezia FC sees itself as an ambassador for the city of Venice, with a mission to celebrate its rich cultural heritage. The partnership with NOCTA reinforces this mission by merging fashion, sports, and culture. By showcasing their full collection of kits during the international break in September, Venezia FC aims to attract international attention and highlight the city’s unique cultural identity.
APEX Capital, the global sports-focused firm that facilitated Drake’s investment in Venezia, has a diversified investment portfolio that includes stakes in various sports, media, and entertainment ventures. Aside from its involvement with Venezia FC, APEX also has investments in the Alpine F1 team and Bay Golf Club. This demonstrates the firm’s commitment to supporting innovative and culturally impactful projects in the sports industry.
Drake’s partnership with Venezia FC and NOCTA represents a powerful merging of culture and sports. By aligning with a team that values creativity, cultural heritage, and international outreach, Drake has solidified his position as a forward-thinking investor in the sports industry. The collaboration between Drake, APEX Capital, and Venezia FC is poised to make a significant impact on the intersection of sports, fashion, and cultural expression.
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