Drake Invests in Venezia, Becomes Kit Sponsor

Canadian rapper Drake has become an investor in Serie A club Venezia after joining forces with the global sports-focused firm APEX Capital.

APEX, which acquired a minority stake in the club from northern Italy in July, not long after the team earned promotion to Serie A, confirmed Drake’s addition to the project.

The sports investment company announced via Instagram: “Global icon Drake has joined @veneziafc investor group alongside APEX to fund the club ahead of its Serie A season. His Nike sub-brand NOCTA becomes the team’s official kit sponsor, a huge step towards merging culture and sports.”

NOCTA is the clothing brand owned by Drake and developed in collaboration with Nike.

“We’re excited to partner with Venezia FC, a team that embodies the rich history and vibrant culture of Venice,” said Matte Babel, spokesman for Drake’s management team.

“It’s the perfect intersection of sport and culture, and we’re looking forward to contributing to a franchise that stretches beyond the pitch.”

Previously, Italian sports brand Kappa had been the kit sponsor for Venezia until June. Venezia’s transition from Nike to Kappa in 2021 reportedly aimed to provide the club with more creative control over its kits.

Since then, Venezia FC has collaborated with creative agencies like Bureau Borsche for their jersey designs.

“One of Venezia FC’s goals is to leverage the global popularity of football and bring international attention to one of the most culturally significant cities in the world,” stated Venezia FC brand manager Fabrizia Monteleone.

“Venezia FC serves as an ambassador for the city of Venice, and the club’s relationship with NOCTA will reinforce Venezia FC’s broader mission to celebrate the city’s cultural heritage.”

Venezia’s full collection of kits will be available during the international break in September.

APEX’s investment portfolio concentrates on sports, media, and entertainment investments and includes stakes in the Alpine F1 team and Bay Golf Club.