KSI buys 20% stake in Dagenham & Redbridge with Premier League ambition
Table of Contents
 |
The 32-year-old, whose real name is Olajide Olayinka Williams Olatunji, confirmed he has taken a 20% share in the east London club.
The deal is subject to approval from the National League.
His investment comes just one week after former England and Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll was also announced as a shareholder, marking a new chapter for the sixth-tier side.
Cristiano Ronaldo moves into club ownership by taking 25% stake in UD Almería
Cristiano Ronaldo becomes 25% co-owner of UD Almería whilst still starring for Al-Nassr. Deal fuels promotion push and plans beyond playing.
Read This Next →Key takeaways
- KSI buys 20% stake in Dagenham & Redbridge.
- Deal pending National League approval.
- Andy Carroll also confirmed as shareholder.
- KSI targets long-term Premier League promotion.
- Major boost in global exposure for the club.
A full-circle moment for KSI
KSI shared the news in a three-minute video posted to X, describing the move as "a full circle moment" - referencing his popular FIFA YouTube series Race to Division One, where he previously managed the club virtually.I’m so excited to start this journey. It’s gonna be a rollercoaster for sure but I hope to bring Dagenham and Redbridge (@Dag_RedFC) back to the glory days. For those of you that are OG fans (Race to Division One), you’ll know that this is a full circle moment for me. So join me… pic.twitter.com/GosGKRtPR6
— ksi (@KSI) March 3, 2026
From YouTube to the boardroom
KSI has built a vast global audience, with more than 50 million followers across platforms.Beyond YouTube, he has stepped into boxing with headline bouts against Logan Paul and Tommy Fury, and recently appeared as a judge on Britain's Got Talent.
His growing business portfolio includes Prime energy drink and involvement in the Baller League, but football ownership represents one of his most ambitious ventures yet.
Despite being a lifelong Arsenal supporter, KSI insists his focus will now extend to building success at Dagenham & Redbridge.
Ambitious - but realistic - targets
Whilst talk of Premier League football may seem distant for a club in the sixth tier, KSI acknowledged the scale of the challenge.Playing a video game and owning a football club is very different, I know that, but with Race to Division One, it was a journey. It was hard, but in the end, I did it.The Daggers were recently purchased by US-based Happy Fan Group, signalling a wider overhaul at board level.
With this club, I want to do the unthinkable. I want to take Dagenham and Redbridge to the Premier League.
It's obviously going to take time, but I'd say the realistic goal is getting out of this league and entering the National League.
Former Queens Park Rangers owner Tony Fernandes has also reportedly expressed interest in investing.
The 'Ryan Reynolds effect'?
Some fans have compared KSI's move to Ryan Reynolds' takeover of Wrexham, which propelled the Welsh side up the English football pyramid.Others pointed to YouTube creator Spencer Owen, who founded Hashtag United and climbed through the non-league system.
Whether KSI can replicate similar success remains to be seen, but his profile alone brings unprecedented visibility to the club.
What this means for Dagenham & Redbridge
KSI's involvement offers:- Increased global exposure
- Potential commercial growth
- New sponsorship opportunities
- Greater engagement with younger fans
The key challenge now will be translating digital influence into on-pitch progress.
FAQ
How much of Dagenham & Redbridge does KSI own?
KSI has reportedly acquired a 20% minority stake in the club.Which league do Dagenham & Redbridge play in?
Dagenham & Redbridge currently compete in the National League South, the sixth tier of English football.Is the takeover fully completed?
The deal is subject to approval from the National League.Is KSI still an Arsenal fan?
Yes, KSI remains a lifelong Arsenal supporter despite investing in Dagenham & Redbridge.Has KSI owned a football club before?
No, this is his first direct involvement in professional football ownership.Want the best deals right now? View Best Deals →
Shop Featured Deals (Fast Checkout)
Post a Comment