In the wake of Hugh Jackman‘s divorce news, the Australian actor announced a new partnership on Thursday taking many by surprise.
While it’s not a romantic relationship, it’s nevertheless an unexpected one – even if he is pairing up with bestie Ryan Reynolds off-screen.
The Deadpool & Wolverine stars announced they’d bought Australia’s three-time SailGP champions, who will compete as the freshly rebranded BONDS Flying Roos SailGP Team.
READ MORE: ‘I get to skip my exam because Katy Perry said so’
“We’re incredibly excited to set sail together in this new adventure,” the new co-owners said in a joint statement before launching into the comedic wit Reynolds is known for.
“Hugh brings a deep love for and pride in his home country as well as being an avid fan of sailing.
“He will also be bringing his overly clingy emotional support human along for the ride. Apologies in advance to Australia.
“No comment on whether we’re writing this in our BONDS. No further questions.”
READ MORE: Stars debunk major feud rumours after months of speculation
The underwear brand is the title sponsor for the team being led by Olympic gold medallist Tom Slingsby.
“This is an incredible milestone for us and for our sport, having global icons Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds come on board as co-owners of our team,” Slingsby said in a statement.
“They bring unmatched star power, a love for storytelling, and a sharp sense of humour that fits perfectly with our team.”
There was also a joint announcement posted to social media.
“Say g’day to the BONDS Flying Roos, powered by the world’s comfiest undies,” the caption said.
“Now under new Straya-Canadian management! New legends. Same Aussie grit.”
The post included kangaroo and maple leaf emojis to symbolise Jackman and Reynolds, who are going into business together for the first time.
For a daily dose of 9honey, subscribe to our newsletter here.
Reynolds already has a few sports teams under his belt – which he co-owns with fellow actor Rob Mcelhenney – including Welsh football team Wrexham FC, Mexican football team Club Necaxa and the Alpine Formula 1 team.
The Deadpool star has also created and then sold a number of other businesses, including Aviation Gin and Mint Mobile.
Meanwhile Jackman was previously in the coffee business, starting Laughing Man Coffee Company with his now ex-wife Deborra-lee Furness.
Robert Irwin’s action-packed life in pictures
The company’s website confirms the actor is “no longer involved with running the business, he is still a friend and proud founder of the Laughing Man mission and Foundation”.
The Flying Roos will make their debut under their new partnership at the Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix this weekend, with the Australian crew attempting to defend their position at the top of the leaderboard.
SailGP sees 12 national teams compete in identical, high-performance F50 catamarans in grand prix events hosted around the globe during the racing season.
FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE: Stay across all the latest in celebrity, lifestyle and opinion via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.
