How Footballers Turned Entrepreneurs: The Business Ventures of Famous Players

Football is a game that unites people around the world. We’ve seen athletes who’ve conquered great heights and pleased us with their goals. However, some of them are also successful in their business ventures.

Let’s have a look at some famous football entrepreneurs and their achievements. You’re sure to find one of your favourite players on the list.

Why do Ex Footballers Venture into Business?

First of all, nothing lasts forever, and just like you and me, footballers want to secure financial stability, build lasting enterprises, and stay active after retirement. With short playing careers, many of them seek out new challenges for long-term income.

Secondly, I think they’re willing to try their skills and explore their passions. Some have even taken business lessons. When you look at the list, you will discover that many who excelled on the pitch, also found success in different industries.

Top Ex Professional Footballers Who Became Successful Entrepreneurs

Creative thinking, passion, and dedication are frequently the keys to accomplishing more extraordinary things. Let’s check out the list of football players who went on to own their own businesses:

#1 David Beckham – Fashion & Sports Ownership

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was known for his technical skills and creativity on the field. In my opinion, it was a worthwhile strategy for him to invest in the fashion endorsement business, as the industry was thriving back then. He’s also a co-owner of Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer.

#2 Cristiano Ronaldo – Hotels, Fashion, and Fitness

At 40, Cristiano Ronaldo is still playing and shows no signs of slowing down. In business, he’s established himself as a businessman, having assets with the Pestana CR7 Hotels, CR7 fashion brand, and CR7 fitness gyms.

#3 Gary Neville – Hospitality & Real Estate

For those who remember Gary Neville, you’ll know he was famous for his leadership qualities on the pitch. The ex-Manchester United defender co-founded Hotel Football near Old Trafford. He’s also heavily involved in real estate developments across Manchester. 

#4 Rio Ferdinand – Fashion & Media

Another Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, launched his own FIVE clothing brand and has been involved in media through BT Sport. He’s a perfect example of how proper funding can be lucrative in the long run.

#5 Gerard Piqué – Sports & Esports

Although the former Barcelona defender does not own wealth management companies, he owns Kosmos Holding, which revamped the Davis Cup. He also runs the Kings League, an innovative 7-a-side football competition in Spain.

#6 Andrés Iniesta – Wine Business

If there was a football CEO award, I would assign it to the Spanish maestro Andres Iniesta. He founded Bodega Iniesta, a prominent winery in Spain. They produce high-quality wines that are exported worldwide.

#7 Mathieu Flamini – Biochemical Industry

This former Arsenal and AC Milan midfielder seems very business-minded and entrepreneurial. He co-founded GF Biochemicals, a company producing levulinic acid, which is a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

#8 Thomas Gravesen – Investment & Poker

Thomas Gravesen is one of the most underrated footballers, in my opinion. However, the former Danish player became a multimillionaire through successful investments in real estate and poker. Thanks to these activities, he has amassed an enormous fortune. 

#9 Roberto Carlos – Academy & Football Agency

The Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos has invested in football academies and agencies. In Brazil, less fortunate children have limited access to sports facilities. Carlos is helping young talents develop their careers through accessible resources.

#10 Ronaldo – Sports

And finally we’ve got to the Brazilian striker – Ronaldo. Few might know this, but he’s the primary owner of the Spanish club Valladolid, holding 82% of the shares. I can only imagine how the players in Valladolid are seeking his mentorship. However, they’re currently struggling and on the brink of relegation.

Best Industries to Invest in From Footballers’ Perspectives

Here are the top five business industries that footballers invest in:

Apparel and Fashion Brands

Footballers choose the apparel and fashion industry to align with their global image and fan appeal through collaborations with major brands and strategic partnerships. Nowadays, fashion offers high profitability and long-term growth. 

Football Businesses: Restaurants and Hospitality

The hospitality industry is known for its high revenue potential and for enhancing athletes’ branding. Moreover, global recognition attracts customers, making ventures like hotels and high-end dining venues successful. 

Tech Startups and Digital Ventures

We are living in the era of technology. Every second, we see new gadgets and computers being released. This field can be profitable. However, you need good marketing skills and knowledge of financial strategies. That’s why many famous footballers hire advisors to help them. 

Real Estate Investments and Property Development

I would say this is the most common and reliable route to financial success. Footballers choose real estate investment because it offers passive income and long-term growth. Property ownership provides stability after retirement, while the scalability allows them to expand their portfolios globally.

Entertainment and Media

When it comes to entertainment and media investments, the first sportsman who comes to mind is Cristiano Ronaldo. After creating his YouTube account, Ronaldo quickly collected subscribers. YouTube is a great way to expand brand awareness and influence. 

Many other footballers invest in social media too, launching podcasts or production companies to engage fans and generate revenue. This industry offers creative freedom and sponsorship opportunities in the future.

Challenges Footballers Face in Business

If you’ve ever been involved in business, you know there are always challenges. Footballers also have these concerns. Networking with the right people can help ensure sustainability in their ventures.

Many layers struggle with financial literacy because it is not their primary profession. Some, for instance, have no idea how to invest in the entertainment industry. Many also trust the wrong advisors, and their ventures can fail.