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Pop megastar Ed Sheeran has once again shown his unwavering support for his hometown football club, Ipswich Town, by claiming a spot on the team’s official squad list, yes, really.
When Ipswich released their new squad numbers for the 2025/26 season, fans were left scratching their heads after spotting ‘Sheeran 17’ listed among the professional players. While some supporters assumed it was a typo or a clever PR stunt, those who’ve been paying close attention know it’s just part of a running joke, and a beloved tradition for many.
Sheeran, who became a minority stakeholder in the League One club back in 2021, has worn the No. 17 shirt in all but one season since he became formally involved with the club. That lone exception was during the club’s one-year stint in the Premier League, when the rules didn’t permit non-players on the squad list.
Speaking about the bizarre tradition when it began, Ed admitted, “I thought they were joking when they first told me. I never expected to see my name on a football squad list, let alone wearing number 17!”
But the club went through with it, and they’ve kept the bit alive ever since.
Why Number 17?
While there’s no official explanation for the choice of number 17, some speculate it could have personal meaning for Sheeran. Others believe it was simply the next available number when the idea was first floated and has since stuck. Whatever the reason, ‘Sheeran 17’ has become an unofficial mascot of sorts, blending the world of music and sport in true Ed Sheeran fashion.
The Shape of You singer has long been a loyal Ipswich fan. Not only has he invested financially in the club, but he’s also featured as a shirt sponsor, placing his album logos on the front of players’ jerseys, a rare crossover between pop culture and football that fans have mostly embraced.
Ed Sheeran has been given a squad number by Ipswich in four of the last five seasons – Credit: PA
Fans React: Divide in the Ranks
Despite the light-hearted intent, this year’s squad announcement has sparked some criticism on social media. While many fans celebrated the return of the quirky nod to Sheeran’s loyalty, others questioned whether it was time to retire the tradition.
“It’s funny the first time, but now it’s just a bit cringe,” wrote one Twitter user.
Another defended the club, saying: “Sheeran's done loads for Ipswich. Let him have his number. It’s a bit of harmless fun.”
Harmless Fun or Outdated Gimmick?
As Ipswich Town prepares for another season on the pitch, one thing’s for sure: whether you love it or hate it, ‘Sheeran 17’ is here to stay, for now.
Sheeran himself remains tight-lipped about how long the joke will continue, but his continued support of the club is no laughing matter. With deep roots in the community, Ed Sheeran is more than just a name on a squad list, he's a symbol of hometown pride.
