In a groundbreaking move that signifies a merging of sports, entertainment, and community engagement, actress and producer Issa Rae has officially teamed up with the ownership group of Major League Soccer’s expansion team, San Diego FC. This ambitious venture marks a pivotal moment not only for Rae but also for the sporting landscape, as the club is set to commence its inaugural season on February 23 against the defending champions, LA Galaxy. Rae’s involvement injects a fresh perspective into the league, while also highlighting the importance of diverse ownership in professional sports.
The ownership consortium of San Diego FC features an impressive lineup, including billionaire Mohamed Mansour and the Sycuan Tribe, which notably holds the honor of being the first Native American tribe to own a stake in a professional soccer club. Rae’s inclusion within this eclectic group reinforces the idea that ownership in sports is evolving. Notably, she joins other prominent partners such as San Diego Padres’ third baseman Manny Machado and former soccer stars like Juan Mata, enriching the team’s representation across multiple fields.
In a public statement following the announcement, Rae expressed her enthusiasm for the potential of soccer as a unifying force. “Soccer is a universal language that has the power to bring people together,” she stated, reflecting her holistic approach towards community building and inclusivity. This sentiment aligns with Rae’s previous endeavors, where she used her platform to advocate for underrepresented communities and civil rights. By stepping into the world of sports ownership, she is poised to channel her influence towards fostering a welcoming environment in a realm where such diversity is increasingly essential.
Rae’s role in the San Diego FC ownership is further bolstered by her partnership with Pave Investments, a private African investment firm known for its active involvement in promoting sports and entertainment across the continent. Under the leadership of Pave Chairman Tunde Folawiyo and Founding Director Kwamena Afful, the firm has played a critical role in initiatives like NBA Africa, showcasing its commitment to enhancing the visibility of diverse voices in sports. This collaboration signals a promising trajectory for the club, intertwining Rae’s artistic vision with Pave’s investment acumen.
For fans and communities alike, Rae’s venture into sports ownership transcends traditional narratives. With a successful career that includes her HBO series “Insecure,” her writing accolades, and her advocacy work, she embodies a multifaceted approach to entertainment and community service. Her foray into San Diego FC not only uplifts the franchise’s profile but also offers an opportunity to engage with soccer lovers and inspire the next generation of leaders in sports and beyond.
As San Diego FC prepares for its debut, the collaboration between diverse owners signals not only a new chapter in Major League Soccer but also contributes to a broader narrative of inclusivity and community empowerment in professional sports. With Rae at the helm, the franchise is likely to embrace a vibrant, culturally rich identity that resonates with fans both locally and globally.