Apollo Global Management is reportedly in advanced discussions to invest in Atlético Madrid, with the Spanish football club valued between €2.5 billion and €3 billion. Initial talks centered on financing the €800 million Parque Metropolitano leisure and real estate project adjacent to the club’s stadium. However, discussions have since shifted toward acquiring shares in Atlético HoldCo, the club’s holding company.
While CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and President Enrique Cerezo reportedly prefer not to sell their current shares, they are open to issuing new equity to facilitate Apollo’s investment. Existing stakeholder Ares Management, which owns 34% of Atlético HoldCo, may reduce or exit its position as part of the deal.
If successful, Apollo would join a growing list of private equity firms making significant moves in Spanish football. Previous examples include CVC Capital Partners’ €2 billion investment in LaLiga media rights and ALK Capital’s takeover of Espanyol. Apollo has also pursued investments in other clubs, including failed bids involving Manchester United and Liga MX.
Atlético Madrid reported €395 million in revenue for the 2023/24 season, with a modest pre-tax profit of €1 million. The club remains a major European football brand, finishing third in LaLiga, reaching the Copa del Rey semi-finals, and recently competing in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Source: SportsPro
