Disney CEO Bob Iger and USC Annenberg School Dean Willow Bay have completed their purchase of a controlling interest in the Angel City Football Club, the team announced on Thursday. The transaction has boosted the club’s value to $250 million, making it the most valuable franchise in women’s professional sports history. Additionally, an extra $50 million capital injection has been included to support the club’s operations and growth objectives.
Bay expressed her excitement in a statement, highlighting the impact of ACFC as a sports franchise and as a force for social good, particularly in the Los Angeles community. She emphasized her commitment to advancing the club’s goals on and off the field. The deal was unanimously approved by the NWSL’s Board of Governors, positioning Iger and Bay to become part of the largest majority-female ownership group in professional sports, which is led by actor Natalie Portman, venture capitalist Kara Nortman, and media entrepreneur Julie Uhrman, and includes Hollywood stars Eva Longoria, Jennifer Garner, and America Ferrera.
Angel City FC, now in its third NWSL season, made its first playoff appearance last year. The team is currently ranked ninth in the 14-team league, slightly missing out on a postseason spot. With the new ownership structure in place, fans and players alike are looking forward to driving innovation, fostering growth, and upholding the club’s commitment to equity and impact.
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