In a groundbreaking move, Eni Aluko, a former sports director for Aston Villa and Angel City, has become the first black female football club owner in Italy. Aluko is part of a $100 million ownership group, known as Mercury 13, that has acquired a majority stake in FC Como Women, a club based in northern Italy.
Aluko, who has primarily focused on football broadcasting since her retirement, has now ventured into sports ownership, joining the Mercury 13 group. This move not only makes her the first black woman to own a football team in her native Italy but also serves as an inspiration for black sports investors and black ownership in general.
The Mercury 13 ownership group has pledged to invest $100 million in women’s football teams across Latin America and Europe, reflecting the growing interest and investment in the sport. With Aluko’s majority ownership of Como FC, the group is positioning itself to build a stable of women’s clubs, capitalizing on the increasing popularity of the women’s game.
Aluko’s journey to club ownership is a testament to her passion for the sport and her desire to make a lasting impact. As a former sports director, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, and her involvement is expected to further elevate the profile of women’s football in Italy and beyond.
This landmark acquisition by the Mercury 13 group, with Eni Aluko at the helm, represents a significant milestone in the history of Italian football and the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in the sport.
