Giannis Antetokounmpo Joins Chelsea FC Women's Ownership Group

The Milwaukee Bucks star expands his off-court business ventures despite trade deadline speculation.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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After the NBA trade deadline passed without a blockbuster move involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks star has announced he is joining the ownership group of Chelsea FC Women. This comes shortly after Antetokounmpo faced backlash for partnering with a controversial prediction market company. The move is seen as another off-court venture for the two-time MVP as the Bucks navigate an uncertain future.

Why it matters

Antetokounmpo's off-court business moves have drawn increased scrutiny, especially with the Bucks' uncertain future and lack of a major trade deadline deal. His partnership with Chelsea FC Women's ownership group is the latest high-profile investment, raising questions about his priorities and commitment to the Bucks as the team looks to build a championship contender around the superstar.

The details

Giannis Antetokounmpo announced on social media that he is joining the ownership group of Chelsea FC Women, a historic club 'built on passion, excellence, and a winning culture.' The move comes shortly after Antetokounmpo faced backlash for partnering with the prediction market company Kalshi, which many viewed as tone-deaf timing given the trade deadline speculation. Reports indicate several teams pursued Antetokounmpo in recent weeks, but the Bucks ultimately decided to keep the two-time MVP.

  • On February 8, 2026, Giannis Antetokounmpo announced he is joining the ownership group of Chelsea FC Women.
  • The NBA trade deadline passed on February 9, 2026 without Antetokounmpo being traded from the Milwaukee Bucks.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

A two-time NBA MVP and star forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who has now expanded his business ventures off the court.

Chelsea FC Women

A professional women's soccer team that plays in the FA Women's Super League, one of the top women's leagues in the world.

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What they’re saying

“I'm proud and honored to partner with my friend @alexisohanian, joining the ownership group of @ChelseaFCW, a historic club built on passion, excellence, and a winning culture. Chelsea's history speaks for itself, and I'm excited to contribute to the future by supporting continued growth and impact in women's sport. This is about ambition, legacy, and pushing the game to new heights. Up the Chels! 🦁 💙”

— Giannis Antetokounmpo (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

Reports indicated that several teams pursued Antetokounmpo over the past few weeks, but none presented an offer strong enough to force Milwaukee's hand. It now falls on the Bucks to determine its direction for the rest of the season, with the team potentially better served by prioritizing losses to improve its draft position.

The takeaway

Giannis Antetokounmpo's latest off-court investment in Chelsea FC Women's ownership group comes amid ongoing uncertainty about the Milwaukee Bucks' future plans for the superstar. As Antetokounmpo continues to expand his business ventures, questions remain about his long-term commitment to the Bucks and whether the team can build a championship contender around him.