Bob Iger and Willow Bay Finalize Purchase of Controlling Interest in Angel City FC
Disney CEO Bob Iger and his wife, Willow Bay, have completed the purchase of a controlling interest in the Angel City Football Club.
News of Iger and Bay’s interest in the women’s soccer team was first reported in July when it was revealed that the couple was in talks to purchase Alexis Ohanian’s stake in the club.
In addition to giving Iger and Bay a controlling interest in Angel City FC, the deal includes an additional $50 million in capital, which will be used towards club operations and growth goals.
“We are incredibly excited to join ACFC as owners at this historic juncture for the team and for women’s sports locally and globally,” Bay said in a statement. “As fans since the club’s founding season, we have long admired ACFC’s impact as a sports franchise and a force for social good, particularly here in our Los Angeles community.”
The Purchase Was Unanimously Approved
With the addition of Iger and Bay, Angel City adds two more Hollywood power players to its ownership group. The couple will join team founders Nara Nortman, Natalie Portman, and Julie Uhrman and dozens of celebrity investors, including Serena Williams, Billie Jean King, Jennifer Garner, Eva Longoria, and former soccer stars Mia Hamm, Shannon Boxx, and Julie Foudy.
Photo: Also Angel City FC
The purchase by Iger and Bay was unanimously approved by the NWSL Board of Governors.
“We are excited to build on ACFC’s momentum and help the club advance its goals on and off the pitch,” Bay continued.
Photo: Semafor
“I look forward to working closely with the team, NWSL’s Board of Governors, the incredible players, and the passionate supporters to drive innovation, foster growth, and uphold the club’s commitment to equity and impact.”
Now that the deal is complete, Angel City FC is now valued at $250 million. That makes it the most valuable franchise in the history of women’s sports.
