Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham acquires 1.2% stake in Birmingham Phoenix 2026

Bellingham, a Birmingham native, buys a 1.2% stake in Birmingham Phoenix, boosting his ties to the city.

Ownership changes in Phoenix Knighthead Capital, an American investment fund, became co-owners of Birmingham Phoenix last year after purchasing a 49% stake alongside Warwickshire. The fund now holds 48.4% of the franchise following a small share sale. Birmingham Phoenix now has 50.4% ownership, split between the club and Knighthead Capital. The transaction occurred in January 2026 when an investor acquired 1.2% of the shares, with the club retaining 0.6%. ## Investment details and valuation Bellingham’s 1.2% stake in Birmingham Phoenix is valued at roughly £1 million. The club’s 51% majority holding is assessed at £48 million, according to the annual report. This valuation considers Knighthead Capital’s original purchase price and an added control premium for majority ownership. The report describes the valuation as the ‘fair value’ of the franchise’s stake. ## Bellingham’s Birmingham roots Bellingham began his football journey at Birmingham City’s academy, joining the Under-8s before making his first-team debut at 16. He later moved to Borussia Dortmund for £22.75 million after one senior season in Birmingham. In 2023, he transferred to Real Madrid for approximately £88 million. Bellingham grew up in Stourbridge and attended Priory School in Edgbaston, also playing junior cricket for Hagley Cricket Club. ## Personal connections to cricket As a teenager, Bellingham played cricket for Hagley Cricket Club and remains a known cricket enthusiast. Earlier this year, he stated in an interview that if he could trade places with any athlete for a day, he would choose England Test captain Ben Stokes. This reflects his deep appreciation for the sport despite his football career. His investment in Birmingham Phoenix further ties him to the region’s sporting culture. ## Phoenix’s performance and leadership Birmingham Phoenix is one of three franchises yet to claim a Hundred title in men’s or women’s competitions. Neither their men’s nor women’s teams reached the play-offs in the previous year. For the upcoming season, the men’s team will be led by young England batter Jacob Bethell, while the women’s side will be captained by Australian allrounder Ellyse Perry. The franchise aims to improve its standing with new leadership and Bellingham’s involvement. ## Next steps for the club Warwickshire has not yet issued a public statement regarding Bellingham’s investment but is expected to confirm the deal on Wednesday. The timing suggests an official announcement is imminent. The club’s annual report already acknowledged the transaction, marking a significant development for Birmingham Phoenix. The investment highlights growing local and global interest in the franchise.