Ed Sheeran was in attendance at Ipswich Town's Premier League opener against Liverpool just days after he purchased a minority stake in the club. The global music superstar Sheeran is a lifelong Ipswich fan and has been the club's men's and women's team's shirt sponsor since 2021. On Thursday, Ipswich announced Sheeran had acquired a 1.4% stake in the club through owners Gamechanger 20 Ltd.
Sheeran was seen in the club's fan zone pre-match and also on the Portman Road pitch, though he told TNT Sport that he would have to leave the game at half-time to head to Serbia for a concert on Saturday evening. "It's been really nice, and he's been an ever-present since I have been at the club," Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna said of Sheeran's involvement on Friday. "I know he is a lifelong supporter and very passionate.
"He is a global superstar and one of the most talented musicians in the world, and to have him endorsing what we do is a great boost for the football club. We are really grateful."
Sheeran's investment will not see him join the club's board in what they call a "passive and minority investment only." Instead, the investment will see him have long-term use of a corporate box at the stadium. He was in Miami when Ipswich won promotion back to the Premier League in May. That feat signalled their return to the top flight for the first time in 22 years.
Ipswich fell 2-0 to Liverpool in the game as Mohamed Salah and Diogo Jota scored in the second half to open Arne Slot's managerial tenure with a win.
Ed Sheeran's Busy Schedule
The "Shape of You" singer has been a busy man, appearing alongside Taylor Swift at Wembley Stadium for her Eras Tour just days before the Ipswich game. Sheeran explained that he would have to leave the game at halftime because of a concert in Belgrade, Serbia, that evening, as part of his "Mathematics Tour."
Ed Sheeran's Investment in Ipswich Town
Ed Sheeran has been a supporter of Ipswich Town for years, and his investment reflects his passion for the club. He started sponsoring the team when they were in League One, and his sponsorship carried over to the Championship. He said he would sponsor them for one season in the Premier League, but Mark Ashton, the club's CEO, invited him to invest as a natural progression from his sponsorship.
Sheeran's investment is a sign of his commitment to the club, and it is likely to benefit Ipswich in the long run. While Sheeran's involvement is mainly passive, his investment is a sign of his belief in the club and its future. Sheeran was delighted to watch his team get going against Liverpool and was excited about the prospect of watching world-class football every week.
More Than Just a Fan
Sheeran's relationship with Ipswich Town goes beyond being just a fan. He has played a significant role in the club's recent success, and his investment will help to further the club's growth. Sheeran's commitment to the club is evident in his actions, and his involvement is a positive sign for the future of Ipswich Town.
The Future of Ipswich Town
Sheeran's investment is just one of the many things that are happening at Ipswich Town. The club is on the rise, and they are looking to build on their recent success. Sheeran's involvement is a sign that Ipswich Town is attracting attention from big names in the music industry and beyond. The club is on the verge of a new era, and they are determined to make the most of it. The future looks bright for Ipswich Town.
