Fort Lauderdale, FL (January 22, 2025) – Fort Lauderdale United FC (FTL UTD) is pleased to announce the closing of a seven-figure investment from Future Sporting Ventures (FSV). Future Sporting Ventures will work to accelerate the growth of Fort Lauderdale United Holdings, LLC, inclusive of all clubs, stadiums, practice fields, concessions, merchandise, concerts and ancillary events.
FSV is a diverse owned and operated investment group that consults with and invests in privately held sports franchises and sports technology companies. FSV is led by Managing Partner, Akinwole Garrett, a media and entertainment executive with twenty years of corporate development, business development, strategy and management experience. The FSV team includes Hassan and Meleata Pinto, long time business owners and parents of Hassan Jr., who works for US Soccer, Brianna, who plays for the NC Courage (NWSL) and Malik, who plays for the Colorado Rapids (MLS), respectively; Ian Burris, an accomplished North Carolina restauranteur and semi-professional soccer player with AC Raleigh of the UPSL; in addition to business executives Terry Hsiao, Joshua Moore, Donald Thompson, Sheela John and others.
“FSV is excited to invest in FTL UTD and contribute to the growth of women’s soccer and women’s sports in the United States. We are committed to fostering a culture of passion, excellence and winning, ensuring that every aspect of Fort Lauderdale United Holdings, LLC —from player development to fan engagement—is executed with the highest standards,” says Garrett. “Our mission is to ensure that the FTL UTD brand becomes the cornerstone of sports and entertainment in South Florida.”
“The team at Future Sporting Ventures is coming in with deep expertise in sports, entertainment and community engagement and to help take Fort Lauderdale United Holdings to the next level,” says CEO Tommy Smith. “”We share a unified vision of establishing FTL UTD as the premier entertainment brand in South Florida within the next 5-10 years.”
About Fort Lauderdale United FC
Formed in 2023, Fort Lauderdale United FC is a Division 1 professional women’s soccer team based in South Florida. Empowering talent and forging opportunities, our club stands as a beacon, committed to nurturing players and unifying the community under the banner of soccer. Through our dedication to excellence both on and off the field and an unwavering pursuit of success, we aim to redefine the path to professional soccer, ensuring that passion meets opportunity. Committed to empowering athletes and inspiring the next generation, Fort Lauderdale United FC strives to promote a culture of inclusivity, athletic prowess, and community engagement. For more information, visit Fort Lauderdale United FC.