American cryptocurrency entrepreneurs, Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, have successfully completed a £3.58 million ($4.5 million) investment in eighth-tier football club Real Bedford FC. This substantial deal grants the Winklevoss brothers, founders of the cryptocurrency exchange Gemini and worth £2.14 billion ($2.7 billion), a 45 percent ownership stake in the club.
The investment agreement was initially proposed and announced in April 2024, but the final investment documents were signed recently following the acceptance of all terms. It has been confirmed that this investment is made in cash, dispelling previous reports suggesting the use of cryptocurrency.
The Winklevoss brothers will take an active role in steering Real Bedford’s growth alongside club chair Peter McCormack, who purchased the club in 2021. Their ambition is to elevate the club to the Premier League, inspired by the success stories of Hollywood actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds in their ownership of Wrexham, which has seen a remarkable rise from the National League to League One since their acquisition.
Real Bedford is already on a promising trajectory, with the men’s team currently leading the Southern League Division One Central and achieving consecutive promotions over the past two years. Meanwhile, the women’s team, Real Bedford Ladies, is also at the top of their division and on the cusp of promotion to the third tier of women’s football.
Cameron Winklevoss expressed their vision for the club, stating their belief in Real Bedford’s potential to challenge established norms and create a significant impact in the sport. He emphasized their passion for underdog narratives that hold the power to transform the game.
Legal advisor Rob Hepburn remarked on the exciting developments within the lower leagues of English football, pointing out the notable success of clubs like Salford City and Wrexham, which have both benefited from substantial investments. The Winklevoss brothers’ involvement is set to further the momentum of Real Bedford in this transformative wave.
Additionally, Real Bedford has indicated plans for a proposed merger with Bedford Town FC, which competes in the Southern League Premier Division Central, the seventh tier of English football.
