Chelsea confirm Reddit founder and husband of Serena Williams Alexis Ohanian as new minority investor with £20m stake set to mark 'new era for the women's game'

American investment in European football has become a major trend over the last few years, with the United States' sportspersons and Hollywood stars taking minority stakes, and in Wrexham's case, a majority takeover. Chelsea also have American owners as Todd Boehly's BlueCo is owned by California-based Clarlake Capital, and they have now gained another American investor.

Chelsea have confirmed that Reddit founder Ohanian has completed a minority takeover of the Blues' women's team via his company Seven Seven Six, as the company purchased 8-10 per cent shares in the club, believed to be worth around £20 million ($26.5m). The West London club have claimed that Ohanian, who is married to tennis legend Serena Williams, will bring around the 'new era' in women's football with his minority takeover.

On Thursday morning, Chelsea released a statement which read: "With two titles sealed already this season, including a record-extending sixth consecutive Women’s Super League, Ohanian’s investment is a game-changing endorsement of Chelsea Women, and for women’s football in Europe and across the world. It signals a new era for the women’s game and is confirmation of CFCW’s potential for growth, both on and off the pitch.

"Ohanian brings with him a wealth of experience, energy and passion for women’s sports that will help take Chelsea Women to the next level and shine a light on the potential of the sport here in the UK. The club ownership group continues to be the controlling shareholder of Chelsea Women, with Alexis Ohanian joining as a minority shareholder."

Aki Mandhar, CEO of Chelsea Women, added: "This is a landmark day in the history of Chelsea Women and for women’s football in Europe and beyond. This investment is validation of the club’s past success, but more importantly, it is yet another proof point in the market of the persistent growth and potential of women’s football.

"We continue to lead the way, on and off the pitch, for players and for our fans and brands, empowering and inspiring future athletes and the next generation of sports fans. As a club, we are unapologetically ambitious, and this investment is proof that the opportunities for growth in the business of women’s football are endless.

"There is no greater champion of investing in the future of girls and women’s sports than Alexis, and we are incredibly proud to welcome him to the club."

This is not Ohanian's first venture into women's football, as the Reddit founder was previously the majority owner of National Women's Soccer League club Angel City FC prior to its sale in 2024 for £192.3 million ($255.9m).

Ohanian is reportedly going to travel to England to watch Chelsea's Women's FA Cup final against Manchester United on Sunday, May 18. Williams is also expected to be present alongside Ohanian at Wembley Stadium.