<p>In recent years, a noticeable trend has emerged in English soccer: an influx of American celebrities investing in clubs across the country. From Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s highly publicized ownership of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/no-more-favorites-wrexham-savor-league-one-underdog-status/">Wrexham</a> to NFL star Tom <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/wrexham-beware-bradys-birmingham-break-league-one-record/">Brady’s stake in Birmingham City</a>; the list of American figures putting their money into the sport continues to grow. One of the latest to join the ranks is Hollywood actor <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/which-soccer-team-does-will-ferrell-support/">Will Ferrell</a>. He has recently purchased a share in Leeds United, a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-championship-us-tv-internet/">Championship</a> side with ambitions to return to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a>.</p>



<p>Ferrell, best known for various comedic roles, attended his first match at Leeds’ historic Elland Road stadium in September 2024. The actor was present to watch the Whites take on Burnley in what was a tough 1-0 loss for his team. Despite the defeat, he seemed upbeat and enthusiastic about his new venture into English soccer.</p>



<h2>How Ferrell got involved with Leeds</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/16032809/Will-Ferrell-clubs-2-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-529232" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p>The decision to invest in Leeds United came about somewhat serendipitously for Ferrell. He explained that a former co-star Pete Cornell, approached him about the opportunity to become part of an investor group.</p>



<p>“It came about through a friend of mine who is part of the investor group”, Ferrell revealed in an <a href="https://video.leedsunited.com/video/dm9kJTdDMF9kNmlmMHRsZyU3QyUyRnBhZ2UlM0ZzbHVnJTNEaG9tZSU3Q2hvbWUlMkZsaXN0JTJGMCUyRmZlZWQ=" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interview with Leeds United TV</a>. “We were also in a movie together,&nbsp;<em>Semi-Pro</em>, in which I played Jackie Moon. It was a movie about the American Basketball Association (ABA), which is a defunct basketball league, and Pete was part of the cast. He emailed me saying that he was going to possibly invest, and they asked if I would be interested. I spoke with the chairman Paraag [Marathe], and the next thing you know, I was like, ‘Please, sign me up.’”</p>



<p>For Ferrell, this isn’t his first foray into sports ownership. He is also a part-owner of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-mls-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Major League Soccer</a>‘s LAFC. They have seen significant success since their inception, winning multiple trophies and attracting a passionate fanbase. His love for sports extends beyond soccer, though, as Ferrell is an avid sports fan in general.</p>



<h2>Will Ferrell leads surge of investment in English soccer clubs</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/16032810/Will-Ferrell-clubs-1-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-529231" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p>Ferrell’s connection to football dates back to his childhood. “I think it comes from playing as a kid,” Ferrell said. “My wife played at college, and all my boys have played football. I think I was just the weird California kid that followed football. I loved playing it, and it is a great sport.”</p>



<p>This lifelong affinity for the game has now translated into a serious financial commitment. Leeds are a club with a storied history, and Ferrell hopes to help bring success back to Yorkshire; particularly after the team missed out on promotion to the top flight last season.</p>



<p>When asked about his first impressions of Elland Road, Ferrell responded with enthusiasm. “So far, so good. I’m loving it,” he said before kick-off against Burnley. “It is everything that I was told it would be, and we haven’t even started the match yet! This is very cool to finally be here in person.”</p>



<p>Ferrell is part of a growing trend of American investors flocking to the English scene, a phenomenon that has raised eyebrows and piqued curiosity. When asked why so many Americans are now investing in English clubs, Ferrell offered some insight: “I think we’re finally catching up to what a wonderful game this is. Americans are very heavy into their sports, but there’s still a level of devotion to English football that is unlike anywhere in the world. I think we find that exciting and admire it.”</p>



<p>Indeed, this level of fanaticism and loyalty among fans is something that distinguishes English soccer from other sports. For celebrities like Ferrell, Reynolds, and McElhenney, it’s not just about making a profit; it’s about becoming a part of something larger, something steeped in tradition and community.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>


Will Ferrell: Why US investors pour money into English clubs

Famed actor Will Ferrell is the latest American investor to pour millions of dollars into English soccer clubs.

Will Ferrell: Why US investors pour money into English clubs - World Soccer Talk

<p>Will Ferrell, the iconic Hollywood actor from “Anchorman,” “Elf,” and “Step Brothers,” has a well-documented passion and support for soccer. His journey as a soccer enthusiast has seen him supporting various clubs across the globe; starting from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a> in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> to LAFC in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-mls-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Major League Soccer</a>. Even more recently, he has been associated with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/wrexham-claims-it-sells-more-shirts-than-arsenal-in-usa-20240129-WST-486138.html">Wrexham</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/leeds-united-tv-schedule/">Leeds United</a>.</p>



<p>Ferrell’s support for Chelsea was more than a casual interest. Media have spotted him at Stamford Bridge, cheering on the Blues during key matches. Notably, he posed with John Terry before Chelsea’s 2009 pre-season friendly against Inter in California, wearing the 2004/05 home shirt. In 2012, Ferrell and fellow actor Zach Galifianakis met the squad in Seattle, exchanging personalized jerseys.</p>



<p>In 2017, Ferrell attended a Chelsea vs Arsenal match at Stamford Bridge while filming “Holmes and Watson” in London. Celebrating the Blues’ win, the actor took a picture with Eden Hazard in the changing rooms.</p>



<h2>Big LAFC role</h2>



<p>While his support for the English side was rooted in a fan’s perspective, the 56-year-old’s role with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/don-garber-says-july-4th-el-trafico-may-break-mls-record/">Los Angeles Football Club</a> took his soccer involvement to a new level. LAFC, established in 2014, aimed to bring a fresh and dynamic soccer experience to Los Angeles. The Irvine native joined the club’s ownership group in 2016. That way, he showcased his commitment to promoting soccer in the United States.</p>



<p>As a part-owner of the Black and Gold, Ferrell has been actively involved in the club’s activities. He frequently attends matches at Banc of California Stadium, where his presence is a source of excitement for fans. Ferrel’s hands-on approach and genuine excitement characterize the team’s success. His investment in the club goes beyond financial support; it reflects his dedication to growing the sport and engaging with the community.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/05/16042141/Will-Ferrell-LAFC-1200x670-1200x670.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-507153" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p>One of the key aspects of LAFC’s mission is community engagement, a value that resonates deeply with Ferrell. The club’s initiatives in youth soccer programs, local charity events, and community outreach align with Ferrell’s vision of making a positive impact through sports. His participation in these initiatives has helped to strengthen the bond between the club and its supporters, further establishing the club as a model organization in MLS.</p>



<h2>Recent English emergence in Will Ferrell soccer support</h2>



<p>In recent years, Ferrell has also developed ties with Wrexham, a Welsh club with a rich history and an enthusiastic fanbase. This connection emerged through his friendship with fellow actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who acquired Wrexham in 2020. Their efforts to revive the club and bring it back to prominence have garnered significant attention, with Ferrell lending his support to their cause.</p>



<p>Ferrell’s visits to Wrexham games, invited by his Hollywood co-stars, have added a touch of glamour to the club. His presence at the matches, often captured in the media, highlights the unique blend of entertainment and sports that Wrexham’s new ownership has brought to the table. </p>



<p>The popular actor’s involvement with the Red Dragons is primarily as a supportive friend. Despite that, his appearances have helped to boost the club’s profile and attract a much broader audience.</p>



<p>Then just recently, the veteran expanded his soccer portfolio by <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/new-reynolds-and-mcelhenney-hollywood-star-invests-in-leeds/">becoming one of the celebrity investors of Leeds United</a>, another storied club in English soccer. Leeds, known for its passionate supporters and rich history, represents a new and exciting chapter in Ferrell’s soccer journey.</p>



<p>Nearly a year ago, in the summer of 2023, 49ers Enterprises paid $215 million to acquire the club. But for now, Ferrel will not have any say at Elland Road, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/articles/ce5l47k2jpvo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBC Radio Leeds</a>, as his investment is still small.</p>



<p>Despite his many appearances and connections with several teams, Ferrell made it clear in an interview with <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsPL/status/1624771798909722625" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sky Sports</a> that he does not support any club. Rather than rooting for any one club, he mostly prefers watching the Premier League as a whole.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>


Which soccer team does Will Ferrell support?

Will Ferrell, the iconic Hollywood actor known for his roles in "Anchorman," and "Step Brothers," has a well-documented support for soccer.

Which soccer team does Will Ferrell support? - World Soccer Talk

<p>Will Ferrell has apparently joined the ranks of Hollywood A-listers who have invested in English soccer, which has excited the sports media in the United Kingdom.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.the-sun.com/sport/11283442/will-ferrell-buys-stake-leeds-united/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Sun</a> reports that the 56-year-old has, like Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds at Wrexham, invested heavily in 49ers Enterprises, the club’s owners, in order to support Leeds. </p>



<p>Apparently, Ferrell has become a huge fan of the Championship club and can’t wait to see them play at Elland Road soon.</p>



<p>The renowned actor also has a stake in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/don-garber-says-july-4th-el-trafico-may-break-mls-record/">Los Angeles FC</a>, a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-mls-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Major League Soccer</a> club. While on a six-day holiday with pals watching matches all around the nation, he confessed his love for English soccer.</p>



<p>After making an unexpected appearance at Manchester City’s stadium for <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/you-stay-classy-leeds-anchorman-star-will-ferrell-invests-in-championship-club-13129907" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sky Sports</a> last season, he became a familiar sight at British venues. “I don’t really have a side over here – I just enjoy following all the storylines – it’s obviously a very good league”, he said.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/05/16042522/Will-Ferrell-Chelsea-1200x670-1200x670.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-505279" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div><figcaption>Will Ferrell is a huge soccer fan, this picture was taken in 2009 during a pre-season game in the United States.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Ferrell’s arrival imminent</h2>



<p>According to the Whites, they never address specific stakeholders, so they won’t confirm whether Ferrell has arrived in their boardroom. </p>



<p>But the article goes on to say that the comedian had already paid 49ers Enterprises, the club’s US owners. What’s more, they will reveal his role soon, an insider has confirmed.</p>



<p>“It’s true – Will Ferrell owns a share of Leeds. The 49ers will be announcing his involvement in the coming days and he’s looking forward to sprinkling a little stardust on the club. He loves soccer and has been particularly impressed by the passion of the English game.</p>



<p>“And his aim now is to see Leeds back where they belong — in the Premier League. As far as Will and the 49ers are concerned, this is a serious investment opportunity”, they told The Sun.</p>



<h2>Influx of famous faces in English soccer</h2>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/leeds-united-tv-schedule/">Leeds</a> will compete in the play-offs after failing to earn promotion to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> automatically. Ipswich took second place, with Daniel Farke’s team finishing third, six points behind. This sets them up to face Norwich in a May 26 semifinal, with the winners advancing to face Southampton or West Brom in the final at Wembley.</p>



<p>According to reports, Ferrell will be joining Russell Crowe—who revealed family ties and invested in Leeds—in donning the club’s distinctive white, yellow, and blue scarf. In fact, a number of other famous people have invested in English football clubs.</p>



<p>The most popular of them are, of course, the Hollywood duo Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/wrexham-claims-it-sells-more-shirts-than-arsenal-in-usa-20240129-WST-486138.html">Wrexham</a>. However, this list also includes rapper Stormzy (who last year invested in Croydon Athletic), Michael B. Jordan (who part-owns Bournemouth), and LeBron James (who is investing in Liverpool).</p>



<p>There was talk that he wanted to invest in Wrexham with Reynolds and McElhenney. However, the rumored agreement with Leeds put a stop to that. He and Reynolds had attended the FA Trophy Final at Wembley in May 2022, when Wrexham lost to Bromley.</p>



<p>Photo credit: IMAGO / ABACAPRESS IMAGO / Pond5 Images</p>


New Reynolds and McElhenney: Hollywood star invests in Leeds

Will Ferrell has apparently joined the ranks of Hollywood A-listers who have reportedly invested in English soccer.

New Reynolds and McElhenney: Hollywood star invests in Leeds - World Soccer Talk

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