Apollo, the Financial Powerhouse Behind Atlético’s New Era

The new majority shareholder of Atlético de Madrid, Apollo, is one of the world’s largest investment groups, managing nearly $840 billion in assets. Founded in 1990 in New York, the firm specializes in high-profile acquisitions, corporate restructuring, and strategic investments across sectors like energy, technology, media, infrastructure, and real estate.

Headquartered in Manhattan’s Solow Building, with offices in London, Frankfurt, Singapore, and Hong Kong, Apollo Global Management is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “APO,” currently valued around $130 per share. Its extensive portfolio includes major clients such as Xerox, Norwegian Cruise Line, ADT, and Cox Media Group, reflecting its global influence and operational expertise.

Among its most notable deals are the acquisition of ADT, the security services leader, and its investment in Verizon Media, which owns brands like Yahoo! and AOL.

Apollo’s Sports Investment Expands Into Spanish Football

In September 2025, Apollo Sports Capital (ASC) launched a $5 billion investment fund aimed at expanding its footprint in global sports and live entertainment. The fund has already acquired stakes in major tennis events like the Mutua Madrid Open and the Miami Open, seeking to “unlock value and enhance existing assets through capital, expertise, and structure,” according to the company.

Now, ASC is taking a decisive step into football by acquiring between 51% and 55% of Atlético de Madrid, following an agreement with Miguel Ángel Gil, Enrique Cerezo, Quantum Pacific Group, and Ares Management. The transaction, expected to be finalized after a capital increase later this season, will reshape the ownership of the historic Spanish club.

Rob Givone, Apollo’s Vice President, stated that the company’s goal is to “unlock value” while ensuring the continuity of Gil Marín’s leadership, who will remain as CEO. In a statement, Atlético de Madrid said the investment “will reinforce the club’s position among Europe’s elite” and support long-term growth, including the development of the Ciudad del Deporte project surrounding the Metropolitano Stadium.

Market analysts currently value Atlético de Madrid between €2.5 and €3 billion, confirming its status as one of the most valuable football institutions in Europe.