LOS ANGELES, CA — Willow Bay and Bob Iger, distinguished figures in media and business, have announced their acquisition of a controlling stake in Angel City Football Club (ACFC), the world’s most valuable women’s professional sports team. This landmark development, revealed on Wednesday, marks a transformative moment for both the club and the broader realm of women’s sports.

Investment Details and Strategic Impact

The precise financial terms of the investment remain confidential; however, the valuation of Angel City FC is set at an impressive $250 million. In addition to acquiring a controlling stake, Bay and Iger have committed an additional $50 million to fuel the club’s future growth and development. This capital infusion is intended to enhance the team's operations and amplify its influence within the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the global sports arena.

As per NWSL regulations, a controlling owner must possess at least 35% of the team's equity. Therefore, Bay and Iger’s investment implies a minimum purchase agreement of $87.5 million. Bay is anticipated to assume a prominent role on the Angel City FC board, where she will exercise full control, thereby directly shaping the club’s strategic direction and operational decisions.

Expansion and Influence of Women's Sports

The acquisition of Angel City FC occurs at a time of remarkable growth in women’s sports, especially within the NWSL. Last year, Angel City FC achieved record-breaking revenue, attendance, and sponsorship, solidifying its status as a leading entity in women’s professional soccer. This success exemplifies a broader trend of increasing interest and investment in women’s sports, driven by heightened viewership and fan engagement.

The NWSL has experienced substantial growth in viewership and attendance, with Angel City FC at the forefront of this upward trend. The club’s record-setting revenue and its leading position in terms of attendance and sponsorship highlight the expanding appeal and economic potential of women’s professional sports.

Commitment to Equity and Organizational Growth

The ACFC Board of Directors has expressed strong confidence in Bay and Iger as the ideal leaders to usher the club into a new era. “We know they are the right partners to lead us into this new era,” the Board remarked. “They are committed to further strengthening ACFC’s position as a preeminent organization and brand in women’s sports and to championing the team’s broader mission, including the advancement of equity for athletes and women-founded businesses.”

Bay and Iger’s investment is expected to accelerate the club’s growth trajectory, utilizing their extensive resources and expertise to enhance the team's competitive edge while advancing its mission of promoting equity and supporting women-founded enterprises.

Ownership History and Structural Dynamics

Angel City FC, established in 2020, was founded by actress Natalie Portman, venture capitalist Kara Nortman, and entrepreneur Julie Uhrman. The club’s ownership group includes an array of esteemed sports figures, such as Billie Jean King, Abby Wambach, Lindsey Vonn, and 13 former players from the U.S. Women’s National Team. This diverse and influential group has played a crucial role in defining the team’s commitment to female ownership and advocating for equal pay for women.

Previously, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian held the position of controlling owner. The club’s distinctive ownership structure had led to some financial and operational tensions, which were reportedly factors in the decision to pursue this sale.

Notably, all existing owners will remain involved under the new ownership framework, ensuring continuity in the club’s core values and vision while benefiting from the fresh perspectives and substantial resources brought by Bay and Iger.

Bay’s Dedication to the Club’s Mission

Willow Bay, a lifelong sports enthusiast and the current dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, has expressed a strong commitment to advancing Angel City FC’s mission. “With this investment of resources and capital, we hope to accelerate the growth of the Club and the NWSL,” Bay stated. Her involvement is anticipated to significantly enhance the club’s efforts in promoting equity and expanding its impact both on and off the field.

Conclusion

The acquisition of a controlling stake in Angel City Football Club by Willow Bay and Bob Iger marks a pivotal moment for both the club and women’s sports as a whole. This strategic investment underscores the growing value and influence of women’s professional soccer and reflects a broader commitment to advancing equity and supporting the development of women’s sports. As Angel City FC continues to lead and innovate, the involvement of Bay and Iger is set to drive further success and growth for the club and the NWSL.