Atlético Madrid’s new major shareholder is Apollo Sports Capital (ASC), Apollo’s new investment business that provides capital solutions for sports and live events.
Apollo is a US investment fund that plans to increase its presence in the sport this year by spending $5 billion (4.26 billion euros) on entry into clubs and competitions, and its biggest bet was to buy a 55% stake in Atletico Madrid.
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According to newspaper Expansion, Apollo values Atlético at 2.5 billion euros, and by acquiring a 55% stake, he will contribute around 1.3 billion euros to the club.
ASC’s talented people
Key players at ASC include CEO Al Tylis and platform co-managers Rob Givone and Lee Solomon. In addition, Sam Porter is strategic director of the new company, which aims to become a stable, long-term partner.Al Tailis, CEO of Apollo Sports Capital, is the owner of Liga MX’s Club Necaxa, a Mexican franchise that has partnered with actress Eva Longoria and actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. In addition, Tyris has experience with Colombian club La Equidade and the Brooklyn Pickleball team. He also serves on the boards of G2 Esports, United Pickleball Association, and Canvas Property Group.
“Together with Apollo Sports Capital, we set out to build the preeminent investment firm in the growing sports world,” John Zito, co-president of Apollo Asset Management, said in a statement. “Our goal is to create sustainable, long-term value for our investors, as well as our fans, teams and communities.”
Tyris added, “As an owner and investor in many teams and leagues over the years, I know first-hand how valuable Apollo Sports Capital is to the market. We offer patient capital, an extensive network, and a wide range of solutions beyond traditional equity-only strategies. Lee, Rob, Sam, and the Apollo team have great experience investing in this ecosystem, and together we set out to build something lasting in the world of sports.”
Investing in a sports city
ASC recently invested in the Mutua Madrid Open and Miami Open tennis tournaments, and provided nearly €100 million to English club Nottingham Forest.
The fund’s plans are not yet clear, but it seems likely that it will take part in the red-and-white club’s infrastructure projects, such as the development of Ciudad del Deporte, next to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.
