Hollywood celebrities and David Beckham amplify football's commercial surge

A wave of Hollywood investment is reshaping football, with actors and entertainers buying stakes in clubs, founding women's teams and joining club boards. Notable moves include Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s ownership of Wrexham AFC, Eva Longoria’s share in Mexico’s Necaxa, and the creation of Angel City FC by Natalie Portman, Eva Longoria and others. Celebrities such as Elton John, Matthew McConaughey and Viggo Mortensen have also taken roles with European and South American clubs.

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, former England captain David Beckham has become a prominent commercial face, appearing in global advertising slots aired during the tournament’s new three‑minute hydration breaks. Beckham promotes brands such as Pepsi, Adidas, and Verizon and leverages his co‑ownership of MLS side Inter Miami while extending his personal brand through fashion and entertainment ventures.