Leeds United Investor Expands Portfolio with Atletico Madrid Stake
IDC Sports and Entertainment, a key investor in Leeds United, has significantly broadened its multi-club ownership strategy by securing a minority stake in Atletico Madrid, one of Spain's premier football clubs. This move follows the recent majority takeover of Atletico Madrid by US-based Apollo Sports Capital, positioning IDC as part of the club's new ownership group.
Strategic Expansion into European Football
IDC Sports, a division of the multi-fund platform IDC Network founded in Guatemala with operations across the US and Europe, has taken a minority position in Atletico Madrid. The Spanish club currently holds fourth place in LaLiga and recently advanced in the Champions League by eliminating Tottenham Hotspur last month. This investment aligns with IDC's stated objective of building a diverse portfolio of stakes in clubs across Europe and the Americas.
In addition to its involvement with Leeds United, where it acquired a minority stake last year, IDC holds a majority ownership in Colombian side Deportivo Cali. The partnership with Ares Management facilitated this joint venture into Atletico Madrid, confirmed on Monday, as the club prepares for a crucial Champions League quarter-final second leg against Barcelona, leading 2-0 from the first match.
Apollo's Major Takeover and Club Valuation
Apollo Sports Capital's agreement to assume control of Atletico Madrid, announced last year, reportedly valued the club at approximately €2.5 billion (£2.2 billion). Despite the ownership change, Atletico Madrid's leadership remains intact, with chief executive Miguel Angel Gil and chairman Enrique Cerezo continuing in their roles. Apollo's sports investments extend beyond Spain, including a minority stake in Wrexham and financial loans to Nottingham Forest and Sports Invest Holdings, led by football agent Kia Joorabchian.
Robert Givone, a partner at Apollo, emphasized the firm's commitment, stating, "It is an honor for Apollo Sports Capital to become stewards of this storied franchise, partnering with Miguel Angel and the management team to back their long-term vision, investing in the club and the local community. ASC is committed to upholding the Atleti spirit and traditions in this exciting next phase."
Leadership and Future Prospects
Miguel Angel Gil welcomed the new investors, expressing gratitude for the support from previous stakeholders. "We are proud to officially welcome Apollo Sports Capital to Atlético de Madrid as a committed, long-term partner and one that will build on our great legacy on and off the pitch for our fans, our players, coaches and staff, and our community," he said. "I also want to thank Wanda Group, Quantum Pacific and Ares, who have supported us through pivotal moments to make this new chapter a reality."
This investment marks a significant step in the evolving landscape of football ownership, highlighting the growing trend of multi-club models and international capital flowing into top-tier European sports. With IDC Sports now part of Atletico Madrid's ownership, the club's financial and strategic resources are poised for enhancement as it competes on both domestic and European fronts.
