​        Ultrarunner Tom Evans standing on a mountain in trail-running equipment.
​        KL Rahul, cricketer and founding athlete partner at The Players Fund, holding a cricket bat.
​        Racing driver Chloe Chong carrying her helmet in racing overalls.

FOUNDED BY ATHLETES,
FOR ATHLETES

We are the UK’s first athlete-led VC firm, investing in the next generation of disruptive startups, from Pre-Seed to Series A.

Héctor Bellerín, footballer and partner at The Players Fund, seated in a football stadium.

BELIEF

We champion the global impact of athlete-driven venture capital, recognising the untapped potential at the intersection of elite sports and exceptional founder leadership. 

Our approach goes beyond viewing athletes as mere influencers; we see them as strategic players in the investment world. By educating and engaging athletes, we unlock significant enterprise value. Our unique position allows us to identify overlooked opportunities, access exclusive networks, and provide unparalleled value to founders. 

​       Danielle Carter and the England women’s football team celebrating on the pitch.

EDUCATION

Through our seasoned investment team, our members benefit and learn through hands-on experience in venture analysis.  

We provide support in examining deals, teaching critical investing principles, founder evaluation, valuation methods, and due diligence processes. Through our partnership with the European Sports Business School, we offer access to broader education pathways, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the startup landscape. We believe in offering athletes the tools to understand the work behind early-stage investing and contribute meaningfully to the companies we back.

Serge Gnabry, founding athlete partner at The Players Fund, seated in his office.

ENGAGEMENT

Our members have the opportunity to engage with disruptive entrepreneurs and industry leaders in venture and technology. 

By participating in our Athlete Committee, athletes gain insight into the full investment process and have access to portfolio company founders for illuminating Q&A sessions.This hands-on approach allows our community to immerse themselves in the world of venture capital and world class startups.