With Nike’s help, Drake plays a crucial role in saving the Venetian football club Venezia FC from bankruptcy.
Over the weekend, GQ Italia reported that the Watch out The founder helped raise the $40 million needed to keep Venezia FC afloat in Serie A. Before the investment, Venezia FC was facing severe financial difficulties during the 2023-2024 season and there was a very real risk that the club would be relegated to Serie D.
The club’s co-owner Brad Katsuyama, a close friend of Drake’s Chief Business Officer Matte Babel, asked for help in a desperate situation. Babel quickly reached out to Drake and together they launched a rapid fundraising campaign. Within two weeks they had secured enough money to avert bankruptcy and ensure Venezia FC could continue to compete at the highest level of Italian football.
Babel stressed the importance of their efforts, noting: “Venice is an incredible city and Venezia has always been a special club. Drake and I discussed the details and within two weeks we had a deal in place that raised the necessary funds to pay salaries and keep the club alive.”
Through Drake’s influence and connections, the club raised $40 million from a group of North American investors. Katsuyama acknowledged Drake’s crucial role, saying: “Matte was my first call when I knew the club needed help. Drake’s value to any football club is undeniable, given his stature as a global superstar and the reach of his brand. That intersection of culture and sport is exactly where we want to be.”
Thanks to Drizzy’s involvement, Venice has committed $315 million to build the soccer club’s new stadium and state-of-the-art facilities. Venezia FC will collaborate with Drake’s NOCTA line to design the club’s new uniforms. Drizzy’s creative input will continue to shape the team’s image well into the future.
Drizzy’s involvement in the club creates jobs.
