Grammy award-winning Nigerian singer-songwriter and producer, Tems, has joined the ownership group of Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion team San Diego FC. The announcement is a historic moment as Tems becomes the first African female to be involved in MLS ownership.
The 29-year-old artiste, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, joins San Diego FC as a club partner through her company, The Leading Vibe. Her addition to the ownership group came less than a day after actor and producer Issa Rae was announced as a co-owner, further solidifying the club’s commitment to diversity and cultural influence. Tems now stands alongside other high-profile owners, including footballer Juan Mata, MLB All-Star Manny Machado, and retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink.
San Diego FC CEO Tom Penn expressed his excitement about Tems’ involvement, stating, “Tems is an extraordinary artiste and cultural force worldwide. We are honoured to have her join our club and bring her visionary perspective to San Diego FC. Her passion for empowering the next generation aligns perfectly with our mission, and her commitment to creating opportunities for young talent domestically and globally reflects the core values of Right to Dream.”
Tems, who rose to global fame after her feature on Wizkid’s 2020 hit “Essence,” has become a cultural icon. Her 2022 collaboration with Future and Drake on “Wait for U” made her the first African female artiste to top the Billboard Hot 100. She also earned Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for her rendition of Bob Marley’s “No Woman, No Cry” on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. In 2024, Tems released her critically acclaimed debut studio album, Born in the Wild, further cementing her status as a global powerhouse.
In a statement, Tems shared her enthusiasm for joining the MLS club, saying, “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.”
San Diego FC, set to make their MLS debut in the 2025 season, is currently on a preseason tour, with friendlies against New York City FC, Portland Timbers, and the New York Red Bulls. Their inaugural season will kick off on February 23 against LA Galaxy.