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Last Updated:April 22, 2026, 08:19 IST
Jude Bellingham invests in The Hundred’s Birmingham Phoenix, buying a 1.2% stake.
Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham has just purchased a stake in The Hundred's Birmingham franchise (AFP)
Birmingham’s cricket scene just got a crossover moment no one quite saw coming.
Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham has invested in the sport personally, buying a 1.2% stake in the Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix.
Let’s call it a touch of Galactico energy landing in English domestic cricket.
The Deal Behind the Headlines
The 22-year-old England international, who grew up in Birmingham, has reportedly purchased the stake — worth close to £1 million — from existing shareholders.
The franchise itself is co-owned by Knighthead Capital and Warwickshire County Cricket Club.
Knighthead, which also owns Birmingham City FC, acquired a 49% stake last year.
Following Bellingham’s entry, both parties gave up 0.6% of their stake — ensuring that Warwickshire still holds the majority 50.4%, while Knighthead owns 48.4%.
Interestingly, Warwickshire had quietly disclosed the January 2026 sale of a 1.2% stake to “an investor" — now revealed to be Bellingham. An official confirmation is expected shortly.
A Homegrown Connection
Bellingham has deep ties to the region and even played junior cricket at Hagley Cricket Club in Worcestershire before choosing football full-time.
The Birmingham Phoenix, meanwhile, are still chasing their first title in both men’s and women’s competitions. Last season, both sides missed out on the playoffs.
The Bigger Hundred Picture
Launched in 2021, The Hundred has quickly become a magnet for global investors.
Four teams — Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers Leeds — now have links to IPL ownership groups. The remaining sides, including Birmingham Phoenix, are carving their own identity.
With its 100-ball format and growing commercial pull, the tournament is evolving fast and attracting attention away from the sport itself.
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First Published:
April 22, 2026, 08:08 IST
News cricket Real Madrid Superstar Buys £1m Stake In Hundred Franchise Birmingham Phoenix - Report
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