Angel City FC has made history by becoming the most valuable women’s sports team in the world. The club recently finalized a deal for Willow Bay and Bob Iger to take over as the new controlling owners. The sale, which is valued at $250 million, is still pending approval from the NWSL, the top women’s league in the United States. Bay, the dean of the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, and Iger, the CEO of The Walt Disney Company, have committed to investing an additional $50 million in the club.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone for women’s sports, particularly in soccer. Angel City’s valuation surpasses that of other women’s sports teams, such as the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA and Chelsea in the Women’s Super League in England. The sale of the club has garnered attention from various stakeholders, including political figures like Doug Emhoff, who praised the investment as a positive development for the league.
The journey of Angel City began with actor Natalie Portman and entrepreneurs Kara Nortman and Julie Uhrman, who collaborated with the USWNT players’ association through Time’s Up to establish the team in 2020. The club has since attracted prominent investors, including former USWNT players, celebrities, and athletes, all of whom share a passion for advancing women’s sports.
Despite facing challenges on the field, Angel City has excelled in terms of business growth. The club’s revenue outpaces that of other NWSL teams, reflecting its strong fan base and community support. The recent sale of the club to Bay and Iger signals a new chapter for Angel City, with a renewed focus on enhancing player support, team performance, and brand management.
Looking ahead, Bay and Iger plan to prioritize player development, facilities improvement, and media engagement to elevate the club’s presence in the sports industry. As the new owners, they are committed to listening to stakeholders and identifying opportunities for growth and success. With a firm belief in the potential of women’s sports, Angel City’s future looks promising under the leadership of Bay and Iger.
The acquisition of Angel City FC by Willow Bay and Bob Iger represents a significant turning point for women’s sports, signaling a new era of investment and growth in the industry. As the club embarks on this exciting journey, the possibilities for success and impact are endless.