Tether, the issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin USDT, is making a bold move into the sports industry by investing nearly $130 million in Juventus FC, one of Europe’s most iconic football clubs. The crypto giant has already acquired over 10% ownership in the Italian team and plans to appoint its own directors to the Juventus board during the upcoming shareholders’ meeting on November 7. This investment signals not just a financial boost but a strategic push by Tether to gain governance influence in traditional sectors.
The latest €110 million (roughly $130 million) capital injection marks Tether’s growing presence in Juventus, following its initial acquisition earlier this year. By spring, the company had increased its stake to 10.7%, positioning itself as a key shareholder. Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino described the deal as a step toward an “innovative and long-term collaboration” that merges blockchain finance with real-world enterprise. Now, with a seat at the board table, Tether appears poised to actively shape corporate governance and strategic direction for the club.
Juventus, traded on the Milan Stock Exchange, has faced a turbulent period in recent years. In late 2022, the entire supervisory board resigned amid allegations of financial mismanagement and salary manipulation. Former chairman Andrea Agnelli and two executives later accepted suspended sentences under plea agreements. Investors and fans alike are watching closely to see if Tether’s capital infusion and corporate participation will restore financial stability and credibility to the legendary club.
Tether’s expansion into Juventus aligns with its broader diversification strategy beyond crypto. Over the past year, the company acquired a 30% stake in media firm Be Water, invested $775 million in video platform Rumble, and jointly bid for Northern Data assets in a deal valued over $1 billion. This growing portfolio shows that Tether aims to extend its influence across sports, media, and computing sectors, mitigating crypto market volatility while expanding into high-visibility industries.
In addition to business investments, Tether has been building political connections. In July, Ardoino participated in a U.S. ceremony for stablecoin regulation, and in August, the company hired a former White House policy specialist. With USDT marking its 11th anniversary this year and maintaining a market capitalization of roughly $177 billion, Tether’s influence is stronger than ever.
For the crypto and fintech ecosystem, Tether’s entry into Juventus represents more than a sponsorship — it’s a symbolic fusion of digital finance and traditional business power. As crypto firms continue seeking footholds in mainstream sectors, Tether’s strategic investment could pave the way for greater blockchain integration in sports management and global branding.
