Apollo Sports Capital Acquisition: A&O Shearman Advises

Apollo Sports Capital to Acquire Majority Stake in Atlético Madrid

A landmark investment will see Apollo Sports Capital (ASC) become the majority shareholder of the renowned Spanish football club, Atlético Madrid, bolstering its financial foundation and future ambitions. The deal, reached with Atlético Madrid and its existing shareholders, signals a significant shift in the landscape of global sports ownership.

The investment by ASC is designed to reinforce Atlético Madrid’s position as a leading force in European football and support the club’s long-term success for its global fanbase. According to a company release, ASC and the current ownership group will collaborate with Atlético Madrid’s management team to strengthen the club’s financial resilience, enhance its sporting performance, and expand its community impact. The financial details of the transaction have not been publicly disclosed.

Did you know?-Atlético Madrid was founded in 1903 as Athletic Club de Madrid, initially as an athletic club before focusing on football. The club has won La Liga 11 times and the UEFA Champions League once.

Strategic Investment in teams and Infrastructure

The shareholder group plans to inject additional capital into Atlético Madrid, focusing on both on-field performance and crucial infrastructure projects.A key component of this investment is the growth of the Ciudad del Deporte, a new sports and entertainment district located next to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium. This ambitious project aims to establish a world-class destination for sports, leisure, culture, and community engagement.

“ASC aims to create a vibrant, transformative, multi-use urban hub serving the wider Madrid community,” one analyst noted, highlighting the broader vision beyond just football. Leveraging Apollo’s extensive experience in the sports, media, and entertainment sectors, the Ciudad del Deporte is envisioned as a catalyst for economic growth and community development.

Pro tip:-Apollo Sports Capital invests in sports teams and businesses, aiming to enhance their value through financial expertise and strategic partnerships. They currently have investments in other sports properties.

Ownership Structure and Timeline

The transaction, subject to standard closing conditions and regulatory approvals, is anticipated to be finalized in the first quarter of 2026. Upon completion, Atlético Madrid – including its affiliated clubs Atlético de San Luis and Atlético Ottawa – will be majority-owned by ASC. Miguel Ángel Gil, Enrique Cerezo, Quantum Pacific Group, and Ares Management funds will remain as minority shareholders.

Reader question:-What dose this mean for fans? The investment is expected to improve the club’s financial stability and competitiveness, potentially leading to better player acquisitions and stadium improvements.

Legal Expertise Behind the Deal

The complex transaction was facilitated by a dedicated legal team from A&O Shearman. The team, led by partners Antonio Vázquez-Guillén, Bosco de Checa, Inigo del Val, and Paul dunbar, provided comprehensive support throughout the negotiation and due diligence process. Senior associates Gadea Mato and Soyeon Lim, along with associates Juan Gomez Carus, Cristina Palau, and Harriet Steel, also played critical roles. Tax and antitrust expertise was provided by partners Ishtar Sancho and Antonio Martínez, alongside counsel Jaime Rodríguez and Mario García, senior associate Juan José Sánchez, and associate Eduardo de la Paz.

The official announcement regarding this transformative deal can be viewed here.

This investment marks a new chapter for Atlético Madrid, positioning the club for sustained success both on and off the pitch.