Tems Makes History as First African Woman in MLS Ownership with San Diego FC
Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has made history by joining San Diego FC’s (SDFC) ownership group as a club partner.
The Major League Soccer (MLS) club announced the partnership today, revealing that Tems joined through her company, The Leading Vibe.
A Groundbreaking Move for African Representation
With this move, Tems becomes the first African woman to be involved in MLS ownership, marking a historic milestone for African representation in global sports business.
SDFC chairman, Sir Mohamed Mansour, expressed excitement over the addition of the music star, stating:
“Tems is a globally significant artist who will help us reach new audiences and spread the word about our unique project, which, of course, has its foundations in sub-Saharan Africa through the unique Right to Dream organisation.”
Tems’ Reaction: A Celebration of Creativity and Culture
Sharing her excitement, Tems emphasized her passion for football, creativity, and community-building:
“I am thrilled to join San Diego FC’s ownership group and to be part of a club that celebrates creativity, culture, and the power of community. Football has a unique way of bringing people together, and I am excited to help build something special in San Diego, a city that thrives on diversity and innovation.”
Opinion: The Intersection of Music, Culture, and Sports
Tems’ involvement in San Diego FC highlights a growing trend of artists expanding into sports ownership, similar to celebrities like Jay-Z, LeBron James, and Serena Williams, who have used their influence to reshape industries beyond their primary fields.
This move is not just about football—it’s a bold statement on African excellence, showing how African creatives can have an impact on global business and sports culture.
💬 What do you think about Tems’ move into sports ownership? Could this inspire more African creatives to invest in football? Let’s discuss! ⚽🎶🔥