The group with Chiellini and Mata has bought a club in the Women's Premier League in England.

New owner of Bristol City

According to The Sun: A group of investors, including Juventus legend Giorgio Chiellini and former Premier League star Juan Mata, has become the new owner of Bristol City, who plays in WSL2.

Mercury 13 has acquired a controlling stake in the club from the Lansdown family.

Investments and plans

This deal is called “the first of its kind” in English women's football. Bristol City has become the second club purchased by Mercury 13, after acquiring the women's team of Como last year.

The group plans to invest around £73 million ($100 million) in women's clubs and intends to add new teams in the future.

Under new management, Bristol City will retain its branding and continue to play at Ashton Gate Stadium.

Steve Lansdown, the previous owner, will remain with the club with a minority stake. His group Bristol Sport will continue to control the men's team, as well as the rugby team Bristol Bears and the basketball team Bristol Flyers.

Notable investors

The Mercury 13 group has a strong team of investors, including Chiellini and Mata. Chiellini joined the project last September, while Mata joined this June.

Co-founder of Mercury 13 Victoria Kozhevina Reynal noted:

“They are incredible footballers, but also incredible people who genuinely believe in what we are building.”

“They have been very helpful behind the scenes for Como, and I am sure they will do the same for Bristol City.”

The name Mercury 13 refers to the 13 women who were barred from participating in NASA's training program in the 1960s. When discussing the deal, co-founder Mario Malave said:

“Bristol City Women represents everything we are looking for in a club: a rich heritage; success; world-class infrastructure; and extremely dedicated fans.”

“Our entry into the English football pyramid is an important milestone for Mercury 13, and we approach this with deep respect and responsibility.”

At present, Bristol City plays in WSL2, after finishing 12th in the table in the 2023-24 season and being relegated from WSL.

This sale is a landmark step for women's football in England, as it draws attention to investment in the sector. The new owners have ambitions for the club's development and preservation of its traditions, which will positively impact the sporting atmosphere in Bristol. Women's football continues to grow in popularity, and the arrival of celebrities like Chiellini and Mata could serve as an important incentive to attract new fans and support for the team.