Venezia announce new President and €100m investment via rapper Drake

“Venezia is an iconic team with a century-old history in the world’s most beautiful city, and we will be relentless in our pursuit of excellence ​and victories to ​enhance the ⁠legacy of this storied club,” Leiweke said in a statement.

The presence of Bodie suggests Venezia will push forward on plans to build a new stadium, something that has been suggested for literally decades, going back to previous owner Maurizio Zamparini.

Rapper Drake had already worked with Bodie and Leiweke at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, the owner of the Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC and Toronto Maple Leafs.

“They know what success means and how to achieve it. We have succeeded before and I am excited to bring that energy to Venice,” said Drake.

The rapper became part-owner of Venezia in 2024 and is now boosting his investment in the club following promotion to Serie A, with Leiweke seemingly bringing an extra €100m ($117.72 million).

VENICE, ITALY – MAY 25: Fans of Venezia create a TIFO using coloured flags prior to the Serie A match between Venezia and Juventus at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo on May 25, 2025 in Venice, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Leiweke was criminally indicted in 2025 in the US for alleged stadium bid rigging over the Moody Center at the University of Texas, but was pardoned by President Donald Trump that same year.