By Stig Editor 
Why Ed Sheeran Wears a Football Shirt Number at Ipswich — The Story Behind the Superstar’s Surprising Squad Role
Ed Sheeran isn’t just one of the biggest music stars in the world he’s also a passionate football fan with deep ties to Ipswich Town, his hometown club. But fans often ask the burning question: why does Ed Sheeran actually have a shirt number at Ipswich Town?
The answer lies in his unique connection with the club and his willingness to support them both on and off the pitch.
Back in 2021, Ipswich Town announced that Sheeran would become the official sponsor of the men’s and women’s teams, with his tour logo boldly displayed on their shirts. But the partnership went further than just sponsorship. As a gesture of honor, the club gave Sheeran his very own registered squad number No. 17.
Though the singer isn’t expected to play in competitive matches, the shirt number was more than symbolic. It cemented Sheeran’s role as part of the Ipswich family, giving him a place in the squad list for official competitions. Fans were thrilled to see the Grammy-winning artist’s name alongside professional footballers, proving his bond with the club is far more than a celebrity endorsement.
For Sheeran, the move wasn’t just about publicity. In interviews, he revealed that football has always been a big part of his upbringing in Suffolk, and supporting Ipswich Town is deeply personal. Wearing the No. 17 shirt is his way of representing the pride he feels for his local community and for a club that means so much to him.
Over the years, Sheeran has been spotted at Portman Road cheering the team on, often blending in with fans rather than basking in the spotlight. And while he may not be scoring goals, his support has already made a huge impact, drawing global attention to Ipswich Town and strengthening the team’s identity on the world stage.
So, the next time you see Ed Sheeran’s name pop up in Ipswich’s squad list, remember it’s not about footballing glory. It’s about loyalty, pride, and the unlikely yet heartwarming crossover between global stardom and local passion.