Canadian rapper Drake has become an investor in Serie A club Venezia after joining global sports-focused firm APEX Capital.
APEX, which acquired a minority stake in the northern Italian team in July shortly after the team was promoted to Serie A, confirmed Drake's addition to the project.
The sports investment firm said on Instagram: “Global icon Drake has joined the @veneziafc group of investors alongside APEX to fund the club ahead of their Serie A season. His Nike sub-brand NOCTA becomes the team's official kit sponsor, a major step towards merging culture and sport.”
NOCTA is the clothing brand owned by Drake and created with Nike.
“We are excited to partner with Venezia FC, a team that embodies the rich history and vibrant culture of Venice,” said Drake management spokesperson Matte Babel.
“It's the perfect intersection of sport and culture and we look forward to contributing to a franchise that extends beyond the field of play.”
Italian sports brand Kappa had been Venezia's kit sponsor in previous seasons until June. Venezia's move from Nike to Kappa in 2021 was reportedly done to give the club greater creative control over its kits.
Since then, Venezia FC has turned to creative agencies such as Bureau Borsche for the design of its shirts.
“One of Venezia FC's goals is to capitalize on the global popularity of football and draw international attention to one of the most culturally important cities in the world,” said Venezia FC Brand Manager Fabrizia Monteleone.
“Venezia FC acts as an ambassador for the city of Venice and the club's relationship with NOCTA will reinforce Venezia FC's broader mission of celebrating the city's cultural heritage.”
The full collection of Venezia kits will be available during the international break in September.
APEX's investment portfolio focuses on sports, media and entertainment investments and includes stakes in the Alpine F1 team and Bay Golf Club.
