Hollywood actor Will Ferrell has reportedly acquired a significant stake in English Championship side Leeds United.
Leeds United were relegated from the Premier League last season but look set to take part in the promotion playoffs this term.
Leeds United get Hollywood cash injection
Ferrell made his investment after reportedly falling in love with English football and has pumped funds into the 49ers organisation which owns Leeds United.
Sources close to the star claim he is now a proud Leeds supporter, and he cannot wait to cheer them on from the stands at their famous Elland Road ground.
“It’s true – Will Ferrell owns a share of Leeds,” an insider told The Sun.
“The 49ers will be announcing his involvement in the coming days and he’s looking forward to sprinkling a little stardust on the club.
“He loves soccer and has been particularly impressed by the passion of the English game.
“And his aim now is to see Leeds back where they belong — in the Premier League. As far as Will and the 49ers are concerned, this is a serious investment opportunity.”
Huge boost from Will Ferrell
Ferrell has an estimated net worth of R3 billion, co-owns Los Angeles FC, and enjoyed a whistle-stop tour of English matches last season.
He is keen to restore the club to its former glory.
During an unexpected TV appearance at the Etihad Stadium last February, he forged a peculiar connection with England player Jack Grealish while watching Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.
On the same trip, he also watched League Two team Wrexham. The Welsh club is co-owned by fellow Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds and Always Sunny star Rob McElhenney.
“Although they are not currently in the Premier League everyone in football recognises Leeds is a big club with a massive fanbase,” a source said.
“Many refer to them as a ‘sleeping giant’ which Will is very aware of,” the source continued.
“He knows his football and he is determined to help bring back the glory days to Leeds.
“The club is a big name across Europe, not just in England. It has enormous pedigree and history.
“There is clearly a rich market for him to tap into – both financially and sporting wise.”
Ferrell is one of several investors in the San Francisco 49ers, the gridiron behemoth that purchased Leeds in June 2023.
“I don’t really have a side over here – I just enjoy following all the storylines – it’s obviously a very good league,” Ferrell previously said of the English Premiership according to News.com.au.
He is anticipated to be introduced as a key investor at Elland Road, one of football’s most iconic stadiums, in the coming days.
Leeds United and South Africa
Leeds United was famously home to South African football legend Lucas Radebe.
Radebe is highly-thought of in those parts.
In 1994, Radebe and Philemon “Chippa” Masinga, moved to Leeds United for a transfer fee of £250,000. The addition of Radebe was an afterthought to keep Masinga happy. However, he turned into a club icon and would even captain the team. Radebe turned down the chance to move to Manchester United, AC Milan and Roma to stay at Leeds. Leeds achieved their best Premier League finishes while Radebe was at the club. He remains an Elland Road hero to this day.