S Poddar
Not only did Ed Sheeran confirm an important moment in his life as a musician, but he also, in the streaming frame, checked off the bucket-list goal of becoming part owner of the soccer team Ipswich Town—the sport that Ed Sheeran said he’s been a fan of since he was a child. The British chart-topping singer and songwriter made the exciting announcement late on Thursday and spared no time celebrating in style.
Sheeran’s roots with Ipswich Town run deep, all the way back to when he was a young boy growing up tenderly in Suffolk. It is more a sentimental investment, an engagement of the heart to the club that has accompanied his personal life. He bought a 1.4% share that will entitle him to an executive box at Portman Road, the home ground of Ipswich Town. Even with the new stakes, he clearly stated it was going to be a “passive and minority investment only,” which means he was not getting a seat on the board of the club or involving himself in the decision-making process.
We at Ipswich Town are working on a very exciting moment for this community, having yearned for this return to the Premier League for well over two decades. Sheeran’s investment brings with it huge enthusiasm and support not just from one of the world’s biggest musical stars but also towards one of the clubs that has amplified its profile around the world.
Never one to shy away from the limelight, Sheeran marked this milestone in super-star style. Just hours after the news that he was indeed taking part, he was performing on stage at Wembley Stadium, where Taylor Swift was performing for her ERAS tour. A close pal of the singer, Ed appeared with her on stage to a full – to – bursting – stadium of 90,000 fans, and sang three songs with her. It was a lovely touch, fitting that she has documented their friendship and his in return.
In his own words, Sheeran revealed that he was excited to be co-owner of the club he has loved for so long: “It’s any football fan’s dream to be an owner of the club they support, and I feel so grateful for this opportunity. ” He goes on to reveal his strong connections towards Suffolk, which he has called home since the age of three years. While his musical career takes him every which way around the globe, Suffolk remains home—a place with a level of community and belonging that’s irreplaceable.
However, Sheeran was prompt in emphasizing that his role with Ipswich Town is purely supportive: “I’m not a voting shareholder or a board member. This is just something I can do to help and put money into the club that I’d have done anyway. There’s no going to home games, no away games. I’m not doing it for the benefits,” he said humorously, adding that no fans should come to him with suggestions for signings or tactics – with his involvement set to be strictly from the sidelines.
As the Premier League season kicks in, Sheeran is as much of a fan as others at the comeback of Ipswich Town. “I’m excited for the Premier League to start this weekend. Let’s go!” he exclaimed, capturing the anticipation that many Ipswich supporters are feeling upbeat.
The chairman of Ipswich Town also came out to express his pride in having Sheeran along the journey. It placed the constant support that Sheeran and his team have offered the football club for the past three years, investing naturally in the growth of their relationship. He appreciated the massive exposure Sheeran had been able to open for the club, not just in the United Kingdom but across the world, yet asking very little in return.
As Ipswich Town gear up for their Premier League bow away to Liverpool, there is huge enthusiasm in the club. With Sheeran involved, the Tractor Boys are set to meet the new season with rejuvenation in terms of enthusiasm and expectation. Their way back into the top flight is one particular journey fans old and new will be keeping tabs on.
This weekend, Sheeran’s dream for Ipswich Town will restart in the Premier League as the Tractor Boys host Liverpool at Portman Road in a mouthwatering affair. With Sheeran in their corner, the Tractor Boys are ready to make their mark.
