Jude Bellingham, the Real Madrid midfielder who also captains England, has announced a new partnership with the Birmingham Phoenix, one of the franchises competing in The Hundred cricket competition. The young star, who grew up in the West Midlands town of Stourbridge, said he feels a deep sense of gratitude toward Birmingham and wants to give back to the community that helped shape his career. As part of the deal, Bellingham will acquire a 1.2% stake in the Phoenix, joining Warwickshire County Cricket Club, which retains a controlling 50.4% share, and Knighthead Capital Management, the owners of Birmingham City Football Club, which hold 48.4%. Knighthead’s portfolio even includes a minority investment from NFL legend Tom Brady.
Bellingham’s involvement goes beyond a simple financial injection. He has pledged to focus on community outreach and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, hoping to use cricket as a vehicle for social cohesion. He believes the sport can bring together people from a wide range of backgrounds and create opportunities for young people who might not otherwise have access to high‑level sport.
"I feel like I owe the city something," Bellingham said when the announcement was made, adding that this venture feels like a fitting way to repay that debt. Cricket has always been a part of Bellingham’s life. In interviews with Warwickshire CCC he recalled how he and his brother Jobe would spend countless afternoons playing the game in backyards and parks.
"We used to scrap a lot when we played," he laughed, noting that cricket remains his favourite pastime to watch when he is not on the football pitch. He described the sport as "the most elegant game" and praised the etiquette that surrounds it – from the formal toss to the captain’s crisp blazer and cap. The Phoenix investment arrives at a time of considerable change for The Hundred. Since last year, more than £520 million of private capital has been pumped into the 100‑ball‑a‑side tournament, prompting a series of re‑branding moves.
Three of the eight franchises have adopted new names to align with their Indian Premier League‑linked owners: Manchester Super Giants (formerly the Originals), Sunrisers Leeds (formerly Northern Superchargers) and MI London (formerly Oval Invincibles). The competition’s schedule for 2026 has already been released, with every men’s and women’s match set to be broadcast live on Sky Sports. Bellingham’s enthusiasm for Birmingham is evident in his remarks. He explained that the city gave him a supportive environment where "everyone wanted to see everyone do well" – a stark contrast to the cut‑throat atmospheres he has encountered elsewhere.
"It wasn’t like other areas that I’ve been to where it’s very ruthless. I find that everyone cares for one another really well," he said, emphasizing that this communal spirit is a core value he carries with him on his travels to Germany, Spain and beyond. When asked why he chose to become part of the Phoenix, Bellingham replied without hesitation: "When the opportunity came up, I didn’t think twice.
I love Birmingham and I’m grateful for everything the city has done for me. It feels like the right way to give back, even if it’s through a different sport." He went on to describe his upbringing in the West Midlands, noting that he played both football and cricket locally and that Birmingham City FC was the club that gave him his best football education. He also reflected on the competitive nature of his relationship with his brother.
"We’re a competitive pair of lads – everything we did ended in scraps and tears, whether it was Monopoly, football or cricket," Bellingham said. While Jobe may not have loved cricket as much as Jude, the sibling rivalry helped forge a deep appreciation for the game. Discussing the broader impact of cricket on youth, Bellingham highlighted the sport’s inherent class and elegance.
He praised the decorum of the toss, the dignified attire of captains, and the respectful interaction between fans and players. "Even in big rivalries there’s a line of respect," he observed, noting that while emotions can run high, cricket generally maintains a level of civility that he finds refreshing. He even suggested that football could learn a thing or two from cricket’s lighter side.
"Cricket has more humour, more light‑heartedness, and the players are often less scrutinised for their personalities," Bellingham said. He believes this contributes to a stronger connection between athletes and supporters, allowing fans to appreciate both performance and character. Staying true to his roots remains a central theme for Bellingham. He explained that his Birmingham upbringing is not just about a regional accent, but about the values of community, mutual support and humility.
"I want to show the world that where I come from is an amazing place with amazing values," he affirmed. He admitted that being a "Brummie" sometimes means not taking things too seriously, yet he also stressed the honour he feels representing Birmingham on a global stage.
The 2026 edition of The Hundred will see the Phoenix face off against several rivals at iconic venues such as Edgbaston, Lord’s and Trent Bridge. The schedule includes double‑headers where a women’s match precedes the men’s game, reflecting the competition’s commitment to gender parity.
Key fixtures include a July 24 clash with Trent Rockets at Edgbaston, a July 30 encounter with Southern Brave at the Utilita Bowl, and a August 9 showdown against London Spirit at Lord’s. All matches will be streamed live on Sky Sports, with the finals slated for August 16. In summary, Jude Bellingham’s modest equity stake in Birmingham Phoenix represents more than a financial move; it is a heartfelt gesture of gratitude toward a city that nurtured his talents.
By championing community projects, promoting cricket’s values, and leveraging his global profile, Bellingham hopes to inspire the next generation of athletes from Birmingham and beyond, while also reinforcing the idea that sport, whether football or cricket, can be a powerful conduit for positive social change.