Jude Bellingham, the 22-year-old England and Real Madrid superstar, has purchased a minority stake in Birmingham Phoenix, one of the eight franchises in The Hundred cricket competition.
The deal, valued at around £800,000 to £1 million for approximately a 1-1.2% share, is set to be officially confirmed on Wednesday (April 22).
A passionate cricket fan from the West Midlands, Bellingham played junior cricket for Hagley Cricket Club in Worcestershire during his early years. This investment marks his first foray into sports ownership and reflects a deep personal connection to his roots in Birmingham.
The move comes as The Hundred continues to grow in popularity, blending fast-paced cricket with innovative formats that attract younger audiences and global attention.
Bellingham’s involvement adds significant star power to Birmingham Phoenix. As one of football’s brightest talents, with 46 England caps and a pivotal role at Real Madrid-his backing is expected to boost the franchise’s profile, sponsorship opportunities, and fan engagement in the region. It also highlights the increasing crossover between football and cricket, with high-profile athletes diversifying their portfolios beyond the pitch.
The Hundred, launched by the ECB in 2021, has transformed English domestic cricket with its 100-ball format. Birmingham Phoenix competes fiercely in both men’s and women’s editions, and Bellingham’s stake aligns with broader investment trends in the competition, including interest from American owners linked to Birmingham City.
For Bellingham, this represents more than a financial venture; it’s a heartfelt return to his hometown sporting scene while he continues dominating world football.