AIG acquires stake in Salford City Lionesses and expands partnership with Neville’s club

Insurance conglomerate AIG has made history by becoming the initial Fortune 500 entity to invest in an English women's football club, acquiring a stake in Salford City Lionesses. This development is a part of the growing collaboration between AIG and Salford City, a team co-owned by former Manchester United stars Gary Neville and David Beckham.

In addition to the investment, AIG became the shirt, training kit, and stadium sponsor for the club last year. The partnership further solidified when England soccer star Jill Scott was appointed chief women's football advisor at Salford City.

Speaking about the significant investment, Salford City co-owner Gary Neville expressed his gratitude, stating, "We are incredibly grateful to AIG for their commitment to Salford City and this amazing investment in the Lionesses." He went on to say, "We’re fortunate to have the backing of a world-class brand, which will be right behind our Women’s and Men’s teams in their next chapter."

AIG's president, Eric Andersen, echoed similar sentiments, saying, "We are proud to expand our commitment to Salford City ahead of this exciting next stage of growth. Our interest in supporting the Lionesses reflects AIG's long-term commitment to advancing opportunities for women in business, sport and society, building on our investment in the AIG Women's Open, which has elevated women's professional golf."

He added, "We're excited to support the creation of professional opportunities and career pathways for the Salford City Lionesses, on and off the pitch."

The full financial details of the deal and the stake size in Salford City Lionesses remain undisclosed. Jill Scott's involvement with Manchester City previously strengthens her connection to Neville, who she appears alongside on the Stick To Football YouTube show. Despite the club currently playing in the fifth tier of English women's football, Scott is enthusiastic about her new role, stating, "I’m incredibly excited to be stepping into this new role, helping to drive the Lionesses forward and achieve our powerful ambitions."

She further added, "With the backing and knowledge of AIG, and a team of passionate, talented people at Salford, I have no doubt that the years ahead will be some of our most memorable yet."