Nigerian Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Temilade “Tems” Openiyi has made history by becoming a part-owner of San Diego FC (SDFC), an expansion team set to debut in the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. Through her company, The Leading Vibe, Tems joins a star-studded ownership group that includes Hollywood actress Issa Rae, footballer Juan Mata, MLB star Manny Machado, and retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink.
Her move marks a milestone for African representation in global sports investment, making her the first African female to own a stake in an MLS club. Tems expressed her excitement about the venture, emphasizing the power of football to unite communities and her commitment to building something impactful in San Diego, a city known for its diversity and innovation.
What Does This Mean for Young African Prospects?
Tems’ involvement in San Diego FC could open doors for African talent in various ways:
1. Increased Visibility for African Footballers – With an African investor involved, MLS teams might scout more talent from Nigeria and the continent.
2. Business Opportunities for African Entrepreneurs – Her move could inspire Nigerian celebrities and entrepreneurs to explore sports investments abroad.
3. Stronger Cultural Connections – Music, entertainment, and sports are deeply intertwined. Tems’ presence could lead to collaborations that bring more African influence into American soccer.
MLS vs. Football (or is it Soccer?) – Understanding the Difference
The term “football” refers to different sports depending on the region:
Football (Global) – The game played with a round ball, known as soccer in the U.S. and Canada. It is the most popular sport worldwide.
American Football (U.S.) – A different sport played with an oval-shaped ball, involving tackling, touchdowns, and helmets.
Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top-tier football league in the U.S., but the game is commonly referred to as “soccer” in America to avoid confusion with American football. The rules and gameplay are the same as football leagues like the English Premier League (EPL) or La Liga, but MLS has unique playoff structures, salary caps, and designated player rules that make it different.
Which Nigerian Celebrities Have Investments Abroad?
Tems isn’t the only Nigerian celebrity making strategic investments overseas. Others include:
Davido – Owns multiple properties in the U.S. and has business ventures in music and tech.
Burna Boy – Invested in real estate in London and has international brand endorsements.
Wizkid – Has stakes in fashion, music publishing, and real estate across Europe.
Obi Cubana – Expanding his business empire in Dubai and the Caribbean.
Tems’ entry into sports ownership could inspire more African celebrities to take part in international sports investments, paving the way for bigger African influence in global football.
With San Diego FC set to debut against LA Galaxy on February 24, 2025, all eyes will be on how Tems’ involvement shapes the team’s vision and potential future links to African football talent.
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