Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, renowned crypto billionaires, have made headlines with their recent investment of £3.58 million ($4.5 million) in Real Bedford FC, an eighth-tier football club. Contrary to earlier reports, this significant investment comes in cash rather than cryptocurrency bitcoin. The twins now hold a 45% stake in the club and have taken on the role of co-owners. This landmark deal was announced in principle in April 2024, but the final documents were only signed on Wednesday.
The Winklevoss twins are widely recognized for their prolonged legal battle with Mark Zuckerberg, which was dramatized in the 2010 film "The Social Network." Their investment in Real Bedford FC adds another chapter to their storied careers. On the social media platform X, Cameron Winklevoss shared their motivation, expressing a belief in the club’s potential to challenge the status quo and achieve unexpected success.
"We believe that Real Bedford has the ability to defy the odds, upset the establishment and dethrone incumbents. We love underdog stories that have the ability to literally change the game." – Cameron Winklevoss
Real Bedford FC has been experiencing a notable ascent, with its men's team currently leading the Southern League Division One Central after achieving consecutive promotions over the past two years. The club's women's team is also performing impressively, topping their division and poised for promotion to the third tier of women's football. This investment follows a trend seen in other non-League clubs, such as Salford City and Wrexham, which have ascended to League One and League Two, respectively.
The Winklevoss twins are not new to high-stakes environments. Besides their financial ventures, they competed in the men's pair rowing event at the 2008 Beijing Olympics for the United States. Their net worth stands at an impressive £2.14 billion ($2.7 billion), thanks in part to founding the cryptocurrency exchange Gemini.
Real Bedford's growth strategy will see active participation from the Winklevoss brothers alongside chair Peter McCormack, a cryptocurrency podcaster who acquired the club in 2021. The club has also announced a proposed merger with Bedford Town FC, which plays in the Southern League Premier Division Central, one tier above Real Bedford.
The investment from the Winklevoss twins is not just about financial backing; it is part of a broader vision to elevate Real Bedford FC within English football. Observers have noted parallels with other clubs that have received substantial investments and seen significant success.
"It's a really exciting time for the lower leagues of football in England. We've seen the success that Salford City and Wrexham have had with big injections of cash and Real Bedford look set to continue the trend." – Rob Hepburn
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