Kaylah Walton
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are making a significant impact in the sports industry by purchasing the Colombian soccer club, La Equidad. In this endeavor, they are joined by actresses Eva Longoria and Kate Upton, aiming to replicate their success with Wrexham A.F.C. and bring positive change to the team based in Bogota.
The investment consortium, which is led by real estate mogul Al Tylis and previous DC United executive Sam Porter, secured over 99% of La Equidad for a reported $30 million. This acquisition marks the third soccer team investment for Reynolds and McElhenney, following their ownership of Wrexham and a minority share in the Mexican team Club Necaxa.
Established in Bogota, La Equidad has been competing in Colombia’s top division, Primera A, since 2007 and plays at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo, which accommodates 10,000 fans. The team placed 13th in the most recent season, and the new ownership is optimistic about improving its performance.
A Star-Studded Team
In addition to Reynolds and McElhenney, the consortium includes notable figures such as Eva Longoria, Kate Upton, former NBA athlete Shawn Marion, and baseball sensation Justin Verlander. Although these celebrities might not partake in daily operations, their involvement underscores the rising trend of famous personalities investing in soccer.
The two actors have remarked on their excitement for this new acquisition, drawing motivation from their achievements with Wrexham. They have invested millions into Wrexham, achieving successive promotions and a potential path to the Championship. They aim to follow a similar trajectory for La Equidad and broaden their impact within the soccer realm.
This purchase of La Equidad signifies a thrilling addition to Reynolds and McElhenney’s journey in soccer ownership. With a robust group of investors and a vision for advancement, the outlook appears bright for the Bogota club.
