In a groundbreaking move that highlights the changing landscape of sports ownership, Nigerian musical sensation Tems has joined the San Diego FC ownership group ahead of their anticipated MLS expansion season in 2025. This monumental addition not only marks Tems as the first African woman to hold part ownership of a professional sports team in the United States but also aligns with a burgeoning trend where African women are stepping into leadership roles in football across the globe. Her partnership with the club sets a precedent for cultural representation in a predominantly male-dominated sector, symbolizing a victory not just for individual empowerment but also for the broader community.
Tems’ affinity for football runs deep, as she reminisced about her childhood watching her brother play and developing an intrinsic love for the game. Her enthusiastic announcement on social media, where she expressed her excitement about contributing to San Diego FC, demonstrated her desire to blend artistry with sports. “Football unites people in a powerful way,” she remarked, showcasing her vision of building a vibrant community through the universality of the sport.
The involvement of Tems in San Diego FC opens new avenues for cultural exchange and community engagement. According to SDFC chairman Sir Mohamed Mansour, her global significance as an artist is expected to attract a diverse audience and spark interest in the club’s unique project, which is deeply rooted in sub-Saharan African values through the Right to Dream organization. This initiative aims to empower young talents, drawing parallels between the realms of music and sports in fostering opportunities for underprivileged youth.
As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Tems is positioned not only as an owner but as a critical influencer in shaping the club’s identity. Her vision extends beyond mere ownership; it encompasses a commitment to nurturing talent, thereby enriching the sport. This dynamic relationship between the music and sports arenas could pave the way for innovative avenues for interconnectedness, stimulating interest among fans from various backgrounds who resonate with her artistry.
Tems is not alone in her endeavor; she joins a growing list of accomplished African women who have invested in football clubs outside Africa. One of the earlier figures in this transformative movement is Akosua Puni Essien, who made history in 2017 by acquiring Italian third-division club Como following its bankruptcy. Her $237,000 bid marked a notable milestone for African female ownership in European football, cementing her status as a pioneer. Despite facing challenges from the FIGC regarding the club’s subsequent ownership structure, her investment energized discussions around women’s roles in sports management.
Moreover, in 2024, another remarkable talent emerged—Eniola Aluko, a former English national player who became a part of Mercury 13, a $100 million group that acquired a majority stake in FC Como’s women’s team. Aluko’s leadership aspirations signify a shift in narrative, as she seeks to elevate the profile of women’s football in Italy, illustrating how athletes can successfully transition into impactful administrative roles.
Following closely behind, in 2020, Nneka Ede embarked on her ownership journey by acquiring a Portuguese third-division team, Lusitano Ginasio Club Futebol SAD. Ede’s commitment to creating pathways for aspiring young footballers reflects a philanthropic vision that transcends mere investment—she is dedicated to ensuring that youth have adequate opportunities to excel in the sport. This vision underscores the importance of creating positive experiences and environments for developing players.
The ascendance of African women in the sphere of football ownership is not only an inspiring story of personal achievement but also of collective empowerment. Each woman mentioned—Tems, Akosua Puni Essien, Eniola Aluko, and Nneka Ede—illustrates a distinctive approach to bridging their cultural backgrounds with the world of sports. Their ventures embody a broader movement advocating for the active participation of women in areas traditionally dominated by men, particularly in global sports ecosystems.
As sports continue to evolve and diversify, the implications of these women’s investments extend far beyond their individual clubs. They pave the way for new narratives of ownership, elevate female representation in leadership roles, and inspire the next generation of athletes and entrepreneurs. Ultimately, the actions of these trailblazers reflect a larger narrative of resilience and commitment to fostering inclusivity in sports, signaling a promising future for African women in football ownership.