In a significant move for women’s sports, Willow Bay and Bob Iger have taken a controlling stake in the world’s most valuable women’s professional sports team, Angel City Football Club. The National Women’s Soccer League team announced on Wednesday that the couple had made an investment of an undisclosed amount, valuing the team at an impressive $250 million.
As part of the agreement, Bay and Iger are also set to invest an additional $50 million into the club’s future growth. This investment showcases their dedication to furthering the development and success of Angel City FC in the competitive world of women’s sports.
With Willow Bay set to serve on and have full control of the Angel City FC board, the team is poised to thrive under her leadership. The sale of the team to Bay and Iger comes at a time when women’s sports and the NWSL are experiencing significant growth in viewership, attendance, and investment.
An Emphasis on Equity
The ACFC Board of Directors expressed their confidence in Bay and Iger as the right partners to lead the team into a new era, highlighting their commitment to strengthening the organization’s position in women’s sports. The team’s broader mission, including the advancement of equity for athletes and women-founded businesses, is set to be championed by the new ownership.
Founded in 2020 by actress Natalie Portman, venture capitalist Kara Nortman, and entrepreneur Julie Urhman, Angel City FC has quickly become a powerhouse in women’s sports. The team’s ownership group boasts sports icons such as Billie Jean King, Abby Wambach, and Lindsey Vonn, as well as 13 former players from the U.S. Women’s National Team.
Accelerating Growth and Equity
Willow Bay, a lifelong sports fan and the Dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, expressed her commitment to driving equity both on and off the field. With the infusion of resources and capital from Bay and Iger, Angel City FC aims to accelerate its growth and contribute to the advancement of the NWSL.
The acquisition of a controlling stake in Angel City Football Club by Willow Bay and Bob Iger marks a new chapter for the team as it continues to make strides in women’s sports. With a focus on growth, equity, and strong leadership, the future looks promising for Angel City FC under its new ownership.