Atlético de Madrid, one of Spain’s most decorated football clubs, have announced a transformative new chapter with Apollo Sports Capital (ASC) set to become their majority shareholder.
The landmark transaction, valuing the club at around €2.5 billion, marks one of the largest private equity investments in European football to date. The deal is expected to close in early 2026, subject to customary approvals.
Under the terms of the agreement, Apollo Sports Capital will acquire a controlling stake estimated between 51 and 55 percent in Atlético de Madrid. Current shareholders, CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, President Enrique Cerezo, Quantum Pacific Group, and investment funds managed by Ares Management, will retain minority positions. Both Gil Marín and Cerezo will continue in their respective leadership roles to ensure stability and continuity through this transition.
The agreement signals Apollo’s most significant move yet into European football, expanding its growing portfolio in global sports and entertainment. The firm described the acquisition as a long-term strategic partnership aimed at enhancing Atlético’s competitiveness both on and off the pitch through infrastructure, digital transformation, and fan engagement initiatives.
Speaking on the deal, Chief Executive Officer of Atlético de Madrid, Miguel Ángel Gil, said, “We are very proud to welcome a committed new partner to the club. Apollo Sports Capital is a powerful ally that respects the history, traditions, and defining identity of Atlético de Madrid and its fans, while bringing additional strength and enthusiasm to help maintain our growth and competitiveness.
“This exciting next phase will build on the model that has driven our progress in recent years, and Atlético would not be in the position it finds itself today without the support of Wanda Group, Quantum Pacific, and Ares, whose backing has strengthened us at pivotal moments. Our achievements also reflect the dedication of our employees, the commitment from our players and coaches, and, above all, the unwavering passion of our fans – the true heart and soul of the club.
“Looking ahead, together we see a significant opportunity to drive strong, sustainable growth of Atlético de Madrid as we build on our remarkable legacy. It was important to me to select a long-term investment partner who believes in our strategy and can enhance our activities off the pitch with the development of Ciudad del Deporte.”
Apollo Partner and Co-Portfolio Manager of ASC Robert Givone added, “Atlético de Madrid is one of Europe’s great sporting institutions and we are honored for Apollo Sports Capital to invest in this storied club and its more than 120-year heritage. Miguel Ángel has done a tremendous job transforming Atlético, and it was important to us that we invest behind his continued leadership, in addition to investing in the team and the local community.
“We’re excited to back the team and honor its spirit and traditions, and to add value in areas where we excel, such as the growth of the Ciudad del Deporte and enhancing the fan experience. Supporting the ambitious plans for the sports city can create significant value for both the Club and the local economy.”
While ownership shifts, Atlético have emphasized that their sporting identity, youth academy, and community-driven programs will remain at the heart of their philosophy. The club’s management structure and footballing operations will continue unchanged under long-serving head coach Diego Simeone, ensuring stability on the pitch.
The deal arrives amid an era of growing private equity interest in European football, with investors targeting clubs that combine strong local roots with expanding global reach. Atlético now joins the ranks of elite clubs attracting institutional capital, alongside recent transactions involving Manchester United, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Founded in 1903, Atlético de Madrid remains one of Europe’s most successful football institutions, with 11 LALIGA titles, 10 Copa del Rey trophies, and three UEFA Europa League victories. The club currently sits in the top four of Primera División and continues to be a consistent contender in UEFA Champions League competitions.
For Apollo, this move strengthens its growing presence across the sports and entertainment landscape. The firm, which manages approximately $908 billion in assets as of September 2025, has previously invested in major global sports ventures and infrastructure developments. Through Apollo Sports Capital, the company aims to deepen its footprint in European football and leverage its expertise to support sustainable, long-term growth.
For Atlético de Madrid, the partnership represents more than a financial milestone; it marks the beginning of a new era built on stability, innovation, and ambition. With Apollo’s backing, the club is positioning itself not just to compete among Europe’s elite, but to lead the evolution of football’s modern business model.
