Simon Jordan has reacted to the news that Will Ferrell has become a minority investor in Leeds United, stating that he believes it is a positive development
for the game.
The Hollywood actor was discovered to have purchased a minority ownership in the Whites through the San Francisco 49ers, joining a group of celebrity investors in the club that includes Michael Phelps and Russell Crowe.
In his Daily Mail piece (9 May), talkSPORT broadcaster Jordan says the investment can only be a good thing since it will improve the club’s reputation in America and around the world in the same way that Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney did at Wrexham.
“Will Ferrell, with his newly-acquired minority stake in Leeds United, is the latest Hollywood star after Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney to invest in our game and their presence in English football naturally creates headlines and generates clicks,” he stated.
“Ferrell’s investment demonstrates that sport is now an undeniable part of the entertainment industry.”
“I don’t view it as ominous or worrying. As long as the football club’s identity is preserved, having famous fans like Ferrell who want to invest is undoubtedly beneficial.
“In this day and age of digital material, renowned football fans or investors help with engagement and recognisability, so if Ferrell is running around America as a Leeds stakeholder, the club will, as demonstrated by Wrexham, become more prominent. That cannot be a terrible thing.”
Leeds United might be a global force.
Even though they play in the Championship, the Whites are one of England’s largest clubs, and there is plenty of room for expansion.
Elland Road is an iconic football stadium with a rich history, but the 49ers are aware of the potential that may be realized via investment and improvements.
There is talk of rebuilding Elland Road to make it bigger and better, and by enhancing the club’s brand around the world with investments like Ferrell’s, they will be able to justify the larger stadium while also attracting more neutrals.
The next step must be a return to the Premier League, whether through the playoffs this season or next, and while they work toward that goal, every little bit helps.
Jordan finally has a viewpoint that isn’t completely ridiculous. Ferrell’s investment in the Whites can only be a positive thing.
