Canadian rapper Drake has recently become an investor of Serie A club Venezia, partnering with global sports-focused firm APEX Capital. APEX, who acquired a minority stake in the north Italian club in July following their promotion to Serie A, welcomed Drake to the project. The news was confirmed by APEX on Instagram, stating that Drake, a global icon, has joined the Venezia FC investor group with APEX to support the club as they prepare for the upcoming Serie A season. Furthermore, Drake’s Nike sub-brand NOCTA has been named as the team’s official kit sponsor, marking a significant milestone in the fusion of culture and sports.
NOCTA is a clothing brand owned by Drake in collaboration with Nike. According to Drake’s management team spokesman Matte Babel, they are thrilled to partner with Venezia FC, a team that symbolizes the rich history and vibrant culture of Venice. The partnership between NOCTA and Venezia FC represents a perfect blend of sport and culture, with plans to make a meaningful contribution to a franchise that goes beyond the boundaries of the football pitch.
In the past, Italian sports brand Kappa had served as the kit sponsor for Venezia FC. However, the switch from Nike to Kappa in 2021 was a strategic decision aimed at giving the club more creative control over its kits. Since then, Venezia FC has collaborated with creative agencies like Bureau Borsche for their jersey designs. According to Venezia FC’s brand manager Fabrizia Monteleone, the club’s objective is to leverage the global appeal of football to shine a light on one of the most culturally significant cities in the world. The partnership with NOCTA is set to strengthen Venezia FC’s mission of celebrating the cultural heritage of Venice.
Venezia FC’s full range of kits is expected to launch during the international break in September, showcasing the combined efforts of Drake, APEX Capital, and the club itself. APEX’s investment portfolio is largely focused on sports, media, and entertainment ventures, with existing stakes in the Alpine F1 team and Bay Golf Club. The collaboration between Drake, APEX Capital, and Venezia FC signifies a unique fusion of music, fashion, and sports, setting the stage for future growth and innovation within the world of football.