Strategic view: Apollo Sports Capital acquires majority control of legendary Football Club Atlético de Madrid alongside existing shareholders including Miguel Ángel Gil, Enrique Cerezo, Quantum Pacific Group, and Ares Management. Deal includes capital commitments for Ciudad del Deporte sports complex infrastructure in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Closing expected Q1 2026.
Full story: Apollo Sports Capital has landed one of European football’s most significant deals. The firm will become the majority shareholder of Atlético de Madrid. This isn’t a buyout—it’s a partnership. Existing owners stay invested. They retain meaningful stakes alongside Apollo. This structure exemplifies the club deal model perfectly. Multiple parties share ownership. All stakeholders align around common goals. The 120-year-old club’s heritage remains protected.
Capital will flow into ambitious expansion plans. The centerpiece is Riyadh’s Ciudad del Deporte. This sports and entertainment district will rise next to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium. Think world-class facilities for sport, leisure, culture, and community. Apollo brings deep expertise across sports, media, and entertainment sectors. The firm will help create a vibrant urban hub. It will serve the wider Madrid community. Financial strength meets sporting ambition.
The transaction faces regulatory approvals. It should close in Q1 2026. Financial terms remain confidential. Industry sources suggest this ranks among Europe’s largest football club deals. Apollo can deploy significant capital. Yet they partner with experienced local operators. These operators understand fan culture. They know the club’s DNA. The model balances institutional capital with operational expertise. It’s a blueprint for modern sports investing.
Summary: Apollo Sports Capital’s majority investment in Atlético de Madrid represents a landmark club deal in European sports. The partnership preserves local ownership while injecting capital for infrastructure and competitive enhancement. It demonstrates how institutional investors are reshaping elite sports properties.
