Apollo Completes Acquisition of Majority Stake in Atlético de Madrid
MADRID and Fresh YORK – March 12, 2026 – Atlético de Madrid today announced the completion of its previously announced investment, with Apollo Sports Capital (‘ASC’) becoming the Club’s majority shareholder. Quantum Pacific Group (QPM) will retain a substantial stake as the second-largest shareholder, whereas Miguel Ángel Gil and Enrique Cerezo, along with Ares funds, will continue as shareholders.
Leadership Continuity
Miguel Ángel Gil will continue as Chief Executive Officer, and Enrique Cerezo will remain Chairman of Atlético de Madrid, ensuring continuity in the club’s leadership. This decision underscores a commitment to maintaining the existing vision and strategic direction of the organization.
Investment Details and Future Plans
As a long-term investor, ASC will collaborate with Atlético de Madrid’s management to strengthen the Club’s financial position, enhance its sporting competitiveness, and increase its community impact. Shareholders have approved an additional equity and strategic capital injection of up to €100 million to support the Club’s plans, including investments in its teams and the development of the ‘Ciudad del Deporte’ – a planned sports and entertainment district adjacent to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium.
Statements from Key Figures
Miguel Ángel Gil, CEO of Atlético de Madrid, stated, “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. 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.”
Robert Givone, Partner at Apollo and co-Portfolio Manager of ASC, said, “It is an honor for Apollo Sports Capital to become stewards of this storied franchise, partnering with Miguel Ángel 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.”
Antoine Bonnier, CEO of Quantum Pacific (UK) LLP, added, “We are proud to be remaining as the Club’s second-largest shareholder as we enter this exciting new era, and we look forward to working with Apollo, Miguel, Enrique and everyone else at Atleti to reach new heights together. Under Miguel’s leadership, we have achieved a lot together on and off the pitch. Now, as we approach our second decade at Atleti we’re confident that the best is yet to come.”
Jim Miller, Co-Head of Ares’ Sports, Media and Entertainment strategy, commented, “We are excited to continue our support for Atlético de Madrid, and we are confident in the Club’s future as they build on their momentum and the significant success we’ve achieved together.”
About the Involved Parties
- Atlético de Madrid: One of Europe’s most prestigious football clubs, founded in 1903, with a history of domestic and international success.
- Apollo: A global alternative asset manager with approximately $938 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2025.
- Quantum Pacific Group: An international group of businesses with interests in various industries, including sports.
- Ares Management Corporation: A leading global alternative investment manager with approximately $623 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2025.
ASC’s investment in Atlético de Madrid represents its flagship majority equity investment and is not part of a multi-club ownership strategy.
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