Curt Smith, co-founder of the band Tears for Fears, has joined a consortium in a £6.3 million takeover of his hometown football club, Bath City. The National League South side, currently a non-league team, could follow a path similar to Wrexham, a club that rose through the English football system after being purchased by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2020.
The 65-year-old singer, who was born in Bath and has sold over 30 million records globally, will serve as an ambassador for the club. Now based in Los Angeles, Smith recently returned to Bath to meet supporters and affirm his commitment to the project.
“Our ambition is to climb the ladder and enter the Football League within five or six years,” Smith said. He emphasized the desire to raise Bath’s profile as a football city alongside its well-established rugby heritage, describing the goal as “lofty” but achievable.
The takeover is led by businessman Andrew Stalbow and focuses on strengthening community ties, which Smith highlighted as a key aspect of the bid. While acknowledging he is not a celebrity investor on the scale of Reynolds, Smith underlined the personal stakes involved by noting, “I know my reputation is on the line.”
Bath City has a history as a non-league club but has yet to break into the fully professional tiers of English football. The new ownership group’s approach underscores a growing trend in football where high-profile figures partner with local investors to rejuvenate smaller clubs and foster community engagement.
The consortium’s plans include not only competitive ambitions but also a broader effort to build support within the city and enhance the club’s presence both regionally and nationally. Smith’s involvement brings celebrity attention and a personal connection to the area, which the group hopes will translate into increased visibility and investment.
Bath City supporters have welcomed the news, expressing cautious optimism as the club embarks on what could represent a turning point after years in lower leagues. The consortium intends to remain transparent and maintain close ties with fans as they implement their strategy.