The French Wrexham? Tennis legend Novak Djokovic and former F1 drivers take up stake in Ligue 2 side

Djokovic and former drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen have bought a stake in the second-tier club. Le Mans were promoted to Ligue 2 last season and have shown their ambition to continue a rapid rise up French football with this new investment from elite-level sporting figures such as Djokovic. No financial figures have been revealed by the club.

High-profile investment has become more commonplace in football in recent years, with Hollywood-backed Wrexham and Tom Brady-affiliated Birmingham City key examples of investment working in the English game. Overseas, David Beckham famously co-owns Inter Miami in the MLS.

Le Mans president Thierry Gomez said in a statement: "The uniqueness of this fund lies in its contribution from high-level athletes. Novak Djokovic, Felipe Massa, and Kevin Magnussen will be part of the adventure."

It will be interesting to see the level of investment which is given to Le Mans by Djokovic and Co. as they prepare for life back in the second tier. The club have spent time in Ligue 1 previously in their short 40-year history, but have not been in the top tier since 2010 amidst significant financial issues in the years which followed. It appears the time may be now for the club to take strides forward as they aim to take their place amongst French football's elite.