Welsh soccer star Gareth Bale has a new title to add to the five UEFA Champions Leagues he won playing for Real Madrid.
The former Wales captain, who grew up in Whitchurch, was appointed as a new Cardiff Conference Ambassador due to his investment in Cardiff's leisure and tourism sector, through his co-ownership of Elevens Bar & Grill and Par 59.
Gareth attended Eglwys Newydd Primary School and Whitchurch High School before joining Southampton FC at the age of 16. He went on to play for Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid. At 16, he also became the youngest player to appear for Wales.
His North Cardiff roots are celebrated in a mural in Church Road, Whitchurch (pictured).
Gareth accepted the latest accolade at a special Wales Week London event called ‘Game Plan Cardiff - Scoring big on investment and growth' that was organised by Cardiff Council's Invest in Cardiff and Meet in Cardiff teams.
The event showcased the investment opportunities in Cardiff leading to the UEFA Euro 2028 tournament, with the city's growing population and the growth of business sectors such as financial services.
Gareth said: "Cardiff is an international city with many strengths and a supportive business community, helping to make my personal experience of investing nothing but positive.
"I am delighted to be joining business leaders and leading academics to attract recognition for Cardiff as a great place to do business.
"Working together will always give us a better chance to succeed, and I am excited about what the future has in store for Cardiff."
Cardiff Council leader, Huw Thomas (pictured, left, with Gareth), said: "We're delighted to welcome Gareth on board. His positive experiences of investing in Cardiff are proof that Cardiff is well and truly open for business."
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