Emmy-nominated actress and producer Issa Rae has joined San Diego FC's ownership group as a Club Partner, marking another significant addition to the expansion team's diverse leadership ahead of its 2025 MLS debut.
Rae, best known for her groundbreaking work as the star, co-creator, and co-writer of HBO's acclaimed series "Insecure," joins the ownership group in partnership with Pave Investments, a private African investment firm. The 40-year-old entertainment trailblazer has garnered multiple Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nominations throughout her career and has appeared in several notable films, including "Barbie," "American Fiction," and provided her voice talent to "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse."
"Joining San Diego FC's ownership group is an incredible honor, and I am thrilled to be part of building something that represents and uplifts this vibrant community," Rae expressed. "Soccer is a universal language that has the power to bring people together, and I look forward to contributing to San Diego FC's journey as we make history in MLS."
San Diego FC CEO Tom Penn welcomed Rae's addition, highlighting her alignment with the club's vision. "We are beyond excited to welcome Issa Rae to the SDFC family. Issa's passionate connection to the Right to Dream mission aligns perfectly with our vision," Penn stated. He emphasized the importance of Right to Dream's academy system in identifying and nurturing talent, noting that Rae's influence and perspective would be invaluable in building a world-class football club that reflects San Diego's diversity and energy.
The expansion team, which will become MLS's 30th team, was awarded to an ownership group led by Mohamed Mansour and the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation in May 2023. Rae joins an impressive roster of co-owners, including former Manchester United star Juan Mata, San Diego Padres All-Star Manny Machado, and retired US Navy SEAL Jocko Willink.
As the team approaches its inaugural season, San Diego FC has been actively strengthening its roster through significant transfers, including former Napoli forward Hirving Lozano, ex-Brighton star Andres Dreyer, and defender Andres Reyes from New York Red Bulls. The club is currently in its final preseason preparations, with crucial warm-up games scheduled against New York City FC, Portland Timbers, and New York Red Bulls before their historic MLS debut against LA Galaxy on February 24.
