Venezia FC saved from bankruptcy — by Drake?

Venezia FC needed a financial hero last season, and it found one in highly unlikely fashion.

The club was riding high in Serie B as it chased promotion, but heavy spending during its 2021-22 campaign in Serie A had put the club on the brink of financial disaster.

Enter Drake. Yes, that Drake.

Drake’s chief brand officer Matte Babel told GQ Italy about a conversation with Venezia co-owner Brad Katsuyama last season.

“I got a call from Brad,” Babel said. “He laid out the problem to me in a simple way: Venezia has to raise €10 million in a couple of weeks, and then at least €30 million in a few months, or the club will go bankrupt.

“Venice is an incredible city and Venezia has always been a special club. I spoke to Drake, then Brad and I discussed the details of how we could help. Within two weeks we had a deal, raised the money needed to pay the salaries and avoid bankruptcy.”

The club secured promotion to Serie A at the end of last season, with American midfielders Gianluca Busio and Tanner Tessmann playing key roles.

Venezia is now looking to establish itself as a regular in Serie A as it first aims for survival in the upcoming season.

The club should at least look good on the pitch in 2024-25, as it’s signed a kit manufacturing deal with NOCTA, Drake’s apparel line through Nike.

“Matte was my first call when I knew the club needed help,” said Katsuyama. “Drake’s value to any football club is undeniable, given his scale as a global superstar and the reach of his brand. This intersection of culture and sport is exactly where we want to be, and the chance to collaborate with a brand like NOCTA, who is moving along the same lines, is incredibly valuable.”

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Sorry folks, Kevin De Bruyne didn't write a song with Drake (he's a big fan though)