England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has become a new investor in the Birmingham Phoenix, a team in The Hundred, ahead of the 2026 season. Bellingham, who hails from Stourbridge, will hold 1.2 percent of the equity, with Warwickshire County Cricket Club maintaining majority control at 50.4 percent and Birmingham City owners Knighthead Capital Management holding 48.4 percent. Bellingham expressed his love for cricket and his desire to give back to the city of Birmingham, stating, 'I feel like I owe the city something, and this feels like a good way.' He will focus on community engagement and corporate social responsibility projects, aiming to increase participation in cricket and bring people together through sports. Bellingham's investment is part of a larger shake-up in The Hundred, with over £520 million in private investment injected into the tournament since last year.
The 2026 season will feature every match live on Sky Sports, including the eliminators and finals.