Retired NFL quarterback Tom Brady has become a minority owner of second tier English football club Birmingham City.
In addition to his ownership stake in the club, Brady will also become Chairman of the new Advisory Board which aims to work directly with the team’s board of directors and leadership team.
“Birmingham City is an iconic club with so much history and passion and to be part of the Blues is a real honour for me,” said the 7 time Super Bowl champion. “BCFC is built on teamwork and determination and I’m excited to work alongside the board, management and players to make our Second City club second to none. I’ve been part of some amazing teams in my day, and I’m looking forward to applying my perspective to create that same success here in Birmingham.”
Taking a page out of Wrexham AFC owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s play book, Brady and the team released a video speaking directly to fans.
In a statement from Birmingham City FC, the team described Brady’s role as follows: “As Chairman of the Advisory Board, Brady will apply his extensive leadership experience and expertise across several components of the Club, including working alongside the sports science department to advise on health, nutrition, wellness, and recovery systems and programs. In addition, Brady will work closely with the Board and the management team on global marketing efforts and the identification of new commercial partnership opportunities for the Club.”
Founded in 1875, Birmingham City FC completed another rough season in England’s second tier, going 14-11-21 on the year, and finishing in 17th place. Since being relegated in 2011, the club has struggled to contend, finishing outside the top 10 every year since 2016. A trend they hope new ownership, and Brady’s championship pedigree can help change.
Brady is the latest owner with NFL ties to make the jump to English soccer in recent months. Earlier this year the San Francisco 49ers ownership group purchased a stake in Leeds United, while JJ Watt became a minority investor in Premier League side Burnley back in May as well.
Photo: Andrew Campbell. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.