Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has become a minority owner of French club Le Mans FC. The investment was made through Nxt Play, a company Courtois co-founded.

The ownership group also features tennis star Novak Djokovic and former Formula 1 drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen. Le Mans currently sit fifth in the Ligue 2 table, just three points behind leaders Troyes.

Courtois’ investment follows a trend of footballers owning clubs, as his Real Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappe bought French club Caen in 2024. The move highlights athletes’ growing involvement in sports business and club management.

Le Mans’ ambitions could be boosted by the high-profile backing, potentially increasing visibility, sponsorship, and talent recruitment in Ligue 2. Courtois’ dual role as player and investor underscores modern footballers’ influence beyond the pitch.