By John Baron
Phoenix club FC Farsley have welcomed former Wycombe Wanderers star Adebayo Akinfenwa on board as a shareholder.
FC Farsley launched last December when the Stockdale family completed the the takeover of the holdings company behind the now liquidated Farsley Celtic.
Akinfenwa’s decision to become a shareholder has a long-standing friendship with owners David and Katie Stockdale.
Akinfenwa – nicknamed ‘the beast’ during his lengthy playing career – said: “When David and Katie told me about their plans for FC Farsley, it was impossible not to get excited.
“I’ve known them both for many years, and I know the passion, honesty and hard work they put into everything they do. This isn’t just about football—it’s about building a club that genuinely serves its community and creates opportunities for people.
“Becoming a shareholder was an easy decision because I believe in the people leading the club and the vision they’ve created. I’m looking forward to helping wherever I can, meeting the supporters and being part of what I believe is going to be a really exciting future for FC Farsley.”
FC Farsley chairwoman Katie Stockdale said: “Adebayo has been a close friend of ours for many years, so this isn’t simply someone joining the club—it’s someone who genuinely believes in what we’re trying to achieve and wants to be part of the journey.
“From the very beginning, we’ve spoken about creating a football club that puts people and the community first. Adebayo shares those values completely, and we’re excited to have someone of his experience, passion and personality helping us continue to grow both on and off the pitch.”
First Team Manager and Director of Football David Stockdale added: “I’ve known Adebayo for a long time, and we shared some fantastic years together in professional football. I know exactly what he brings—not just because of the player he was, but because of the person he is.
“He’s someone who cares deeply about football, about people and about giving back to the game. When we spoke about what we’re building at FC Farsley, he immediately understood what we were trying to achieve.
“The fact that he’s chosen to become a shareholder says everything about the belief he has in the project. Having someone of his calibre involved is brilliant for everyone connected with the club, and I’m excited to continue this journey alongside him.”
Across a professional career spanning more than two decades, Akinfenwa made over 700 senior appearances, becoming one of English football’s most recognisable and respected personalities. He has represented clubs including Swansea City, Gillingham, AFC Wimbledon and Wycombe Wanderers.
Away from the pitch, Akinfenwa has built a successful business portfolio and become a respected voice within football, using his platform to inspire players, support communities and promote opportunities within the game.
WLD reported last month that FC Farsley had secured a place in the Yorkshire Amateur Association Football League Supreme Division for the 2026/2027 season after the club had been refused a place in Step 6 of the semi-professional National League System.
It’s understood the club is still hoping to lay a 3G artificial pitch at Throstle Nest to replace the grass one ripped up in summer 2024.
FC Farsley’s first-ever game – a pre-season friendly at Shirebrook Town – will take place on Saturday (2pm kick off).
At this afternoon’s Outer West Community Committee meeting, Farsley resident Richard Warren told councillors he was working with FC Farsley to create an Active Travel Hub at Throstle Nest and was looking to submit a funding bid to West Yorkshire Combined Authority by Wednesday’s closing date. Farsley & Calverley councillors Peter Carlill and Craig Timmins both gave their support.