Apollo Finalizes €2.5B Acquisition for 55% Stake
On March 12, 2026, Apollo Sports Capital, the sports investment arm of global asset manager Apollo (NYSE: APO), completed its transaction to become the majority shareholder of Atlético de Madrid. The deal gives Apollo a 55% stake and values the Spanish football club at approximately €2.5 billion ($2.88 billion). This move marks Apollo Sports Capital’s flagship majority equity investment and solidifies its entry into the elite tier of European sports ownership.
Existing Leadership Remains as Club Secures €100M
Under the terms of the deal, the club's existing management structure will see little change. Miguel Ángel Gil and Enrique Cerezo will continue to lead Atlético de Madrid as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, respectively. Major existing investors, including Quantum Pacific Group, will retain substantially all of its stake to become the second-largest shareholder, while Ares funds will also remain invested. This structure ensures leadership continuity while integrating Apollo's strategic oversight.
To fuel its next phase of growth, Atlético de Madrid's board has approved a capital increase of up to €100 million. This injection of funds is designated to support the club's on-field competitiveness and finance major infrastructure projects, most notably the development of the 'Ciudad del Deporte' (City of Sport) complex around its stadium.
Deal Underscores US Private Equity's Push into European Sports
Apollo's acquisition of Atlético de Madrid highlights a growing trend of U.S. investment firms acquiring stakes in high-profile European sports franchises. For Apollo, which managed approximately $938 billion in assets as of December 2025, the deal provides a high-profile asset in the globally popular sports market. The firm stated this is a flagship investment and not part of a multi-club control strategy, positioning it as a long-term partner committed to supporting the club's financial strength and legacy.
Edgen Stock·Mar 12 2026, 12:54
