Chelsea FC has been at the forefront of reshaping the financial landscape of football, with the club’s innovative approach to long-term deals prompting regulatory changes from both the Premier League and UEFA. As the club continues to lead in the men’s game, its focus on the women’s team is gaining significant attention, with new investors recognizing the untapped potential in women’s football.
Boehly said: “One of the things we believe very much is that the Chelsea women’s team is a top, top women’s team in the world, and it’s going to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars. We’re starting to see sponsors recognise that fact and they have got to get on board right now because it’s good for their brand.”
Ohanian said: “Chelsea is very unique. These are the queens of global soccer, and they’ve got the trophy case to prove it. This is a very special club. The sky is the limit. You heard our president say this club is unapologetically ambitious – I want to get that tattooed on me. That is what we’re trying to build here – the best team in the world and at the forefront of women’s sport. This will be a billion-dollar franchise one day. I hope my dollars, my pounds, can go towards that and especially back home in America. This is going to be America’s team.”
The remarks by Boehly and Ohanian highlight the growing recognition of women’s football as a lucrative investment opportunity. In the United States, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has seen a significant increase in team valuations, exemplified by the sale of the San Diego Wave for $113 million and Angel City FC for $250 million. This trend underscores the burgeoning interest in women’s sports, with investors like Ohanian betting on their future growth.
Chelsea’s women’s team, already a powerhouse in global football, is poised to capitalize on this momentum. The club’s ambition to become a billion-dollar franchise is not just about financial gain but also about setting new standards in women’s sports. As the team continues to attract sponsorships and investment, it is clear that Chelsea is committed to maintaining its status as a leader in the women’s game.
By aligning with the broader movement towards gender equality in sports, Chelsea is not only enhancing its brand but also contributing to the global growth of women’s football. The club’s vision is to create a sustainable and successful model that can inspire other teams and leagues worldwide.
