Jude Bellingham Buys 1.2% Stake in Birmingham Phoenix Cricket Team

Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has acquired a 1.2% stake in the Birmingham Phoenix cricket team, part of The Hundred league, in a deal valued at around £1 million, according to the Times of India and ESPN Cricinfo. The investment was disclosed in Warwickshire's annual accounts and signals Bellingham's financial commitment to his hometown's sports scene.

The purchase involves Bellingham acquiring 0.6% shares from both Knighthead Capital Management, which holds 49%, and Warwickshire County Cricket Club, which retains 51% ownership, MyJoyOnline reports. This marks a step into cricket for the 22-year-old football star, who reportedly has a background as a junior cricket player and a personal interest in the sport.

Bellingham cited his affection for Birmingham as a motivating factor, stating he “owes the city,” according to Guardian Sport US. The deal not only strengthens his ties to Edgbaston but also represents a notable intersection between football and cricket in terms of athlete investment and sports crossovers.

While ARY News confirms Bellingham’s minority stake in the franchise, no additional details have been revealed about his long-term involvement or potential influence on team operations. The official announcement of the investment is expected soon, as noted by the Times of India.

Going forward, observers will watch how Bellingham’s ownership stake affects both his public profile and the Birmingham Phoenix’s strategic plans, particularly with The Hundred continuing to grow in popularity and seek higher-profile engagement across different sports communities.