Reddit co-founder acquires 20 million stake in Chelsea women with investment believed to be for 10% of club’s value.
Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian buys £20m stake in Chelsea Women
Chelsea has not responded to reports that the American businessman paid £20 million for a 10% share in the Women’s Super League winners, but Ohanian verified the information on social media early Wednesday.
“I’ve bet big on women’s sports before – and I’m doing it again,” he wrote on LinkedIn. “I’m proud to announce that I’m joining Chelsea Women FC as an investor and board member. I’m honoured for the chance to help this iconic club become every American’s favourite WSL team and much, much more.”
Ohanian said: “These players are rewriting the game. Undefeated season. Eyes on the treble. But this isn’t just about winning titles. It’s about finally matching their talent with the resources, visibility and respect they deserve. I’ve been right about this before and I couldn’t be more excited.”
“Her integrity and focus on a standard of excellence were a huge factor in why this was such a ‘hell yes’-type investment,” the 42-year-old said of Chelsea women’s CEO Aki Mandhar.
By responding to a post on X that quoted £20m with the words, “Up the Chels!” Ohanian also seemed to support the reported £20m number, which was first reported in the Times.
In an apparent attempt to make sure the men’s team complied with the Premier League’s sustainability and profitability regulations for the previous season, the club’s parent company sold the women’s club to a related company, Blueco 22 Midco Ltd, in June of last year. This investment values the women’s arm of the club at £200 million.