Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham invests in cricket: Buys stake in Hundred franchise
Jude Bellingham has added a new chapter to his growing portfolio, stepping into the world of cricket with a stake in Birmingham Phoenix. The Real Madrid star has acquired a 1.2% share in the franchise, marking a rare crossover between elite football and franchise cricket.
The investment, valued at close to £1 million, comes from equal shares taken from Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Knighthead Capital Management. Warwickshire continue to hold majority control at 50.4%, while Knighthead, the group that also owns Birmingham City, retains 48.4%.
Bellingham’s entry adds further star power to The Hundred ecosystem, which has increasingly attracted global investors and sporting names. The Edgbaston-based franchise was one of eight teams put up for sale last year, with Knighthead acquiring a significant stake for £40 million.
Beyond the numbers, the move reflects Bellingham’s long-standing connection with cricket. The 22-year-old is known to be a keen follower of the sport and even played junior cricket during his early years, once saying he would most like to swap careers with Ben Stokes.
Seven-time NFL champion Tom Brady, who is part of the Knighthead group, is also linked to the franchise, underlining the growing global appeal of The Hundred.
BELLINGHAM’S BIRMINGHAM CONNECT
For Bellingham, this investment is as much about roots as it is about opportunity. Having grown up in the West Midlands and come through the ranks at Birmingham City, the move carries a strong personal touch.
“I love Birmingham. I’m very grateful for what the whole city of Birmingham has done for me. I love cricket as well, so when I got the opportunity to get involved I didn’t really think twice about it, so I’m so happy to be on board,” Bellingham said.
He also spoke about giving back to the city that shaped him.
“I got the best upbringing into football, into life through Birmingham City. I feel like I owe the city something. Right now, it’s difficult with how busy I am with football, but if there’s a way in which I can help then I want to and this feels like a good way.”
The England international also highlighted the role sport can play in shaping young lives.
“I think it’s so important to get our kids in the city out there playing sports. I think it’s crucial. The opportunity of me being a part of Birmingham Phoenix is to try and help people realise there’s different avenues. Some people will enjoy football, some people enjoy cricket.”
Bellingham’s involvement is expected to go beyond just ownership, with Warwickshire stating that he will play a role in community engagement and development initiatives in the region.
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