May 7 – Musician Ed Sheeran has become a shirt sponsor of Ipswich Town, once a powerhouse of the English game but in modern times a middling League one club.
The singer-songwriter, a four-times Grammy winner, is a supporter of the Tractor Boys and has committed to sponsoring the men’s and women’s teams, with the club’s shirts to be emblazoned with the titles of Sheeran’s album, ‘+-=÷x’, along with the word ‘Tour’ for the 2021-22 season.
At the moment, the sponsorship deal between the club and Sheeran covers just a single season.
“The football club is a big part of the local community and this is my way of showing my support,” said Sheeran. “I have always enjoyed my trips to Portman Road and I’m looking forward to going back there as soon as supporters are allowed into stadiums again. With the new owners from the US coming in, there are sure to be exciting times ahead for Ipswich fans, including myself.”
Sheeran, whose personal fortune is estimated to be about £200 million, is a regular visitor to Portman Road. He is not the first musician or group to sponsor a football club with Fontaines D.C at Bohemians, Goldie Lookin’ Chain at Newport County, Jake Bugg at Notts County, Super Furry Animals at Cardiff City, The Libertines at Margate and Wet Wet Wet at Clydebank among those to have backed British clubs.
Town’s director of sales Rosie Richardson, said: “We are obviously thrilled that Ed has agreed to become our shirt sponsor next season. I have worked with Ed and his management team on various initiatives over the years and welcomed Ed and his guests to Portman Road for many games. He has shown his support for his hometown in lots of ways and this is another example of that.”
A mid-table League One club at present, Ipswich won the UEFA Cup twice in its heyday in the 70’s and 80’s.
Contact the writer of this story, Samindra Kunti, at moc.l1713940650labto1713940650ofdlr1713940650owedi1713940650sni@o1713940650fni1713940650