The structure of Mexican football is on the verge of a major shake-up. Grupo Orlegi, one of the most influential ownership groups of the past decade, has officially started the process of selling Atlas FC. The announcement caught many by surprise, especially considering the club remains a competitive and well-run organization.

Let’s not forget that none other than Lionel Messi followed the team on social media, adding even more value to the club.

However, the move isn’t tied to a financial crisis or internal dispute. It’s a strategic decision aimed at addressing a long-standing issue in Mexican football: multi-ownership.

How did Orlegi change Atlas?

When Orlegi Sports took over Atlas in 2019, the club was reeling from decades of sporting failure, financial instability, and structural disorganization. Under the leadership of Alejandro Irarragorri, Atlas underwent a complete transformation both on and off the pitch.

Their success included:

• Winning the Apertura 2021
• Securing the Clausura 2022 to complete a rare bicampeonato
• Claiming the Campeón de Campeones title in 2022

Orlegi also invested heavily in youth development, building a talent academy that became a regional reference point. Still, even titles and infrastructure haven’t been enough to justify maintaining multiple clubs in the same league.

Why is multi-ownership a problem?

Multi-ownership has been a hot-button issue in Mexican football for years. Despite efforts by FIFA and the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) to eliminate it, several cases persist—such as Grupo Pachuca (owners of Pachuca, León, and Oviedo) and, until recently, Grupo Caliente, which sold Querétaro but retained Tijuana.

In Orlegi’s case, it currently owns both Atlas and Santos Laguna in Mexico, plus Sporting Gijón in Spain. The sale of Atlas would bring the group closer to international best practices, reduce potential conflicts of interest, and position Orlegi for clearer growth—especially in Europe.

Who’s managing the sale and what’s next?

To oversee the sale, Grupo Orlegi has hired global firms such as Moelis & Company, ADS, and Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP. These firms will lead the process of identifying buyers and ensuring a smooth transition.

No specific deadline or buyer has been announced, but the operation is already underway. Orlegi will retain ownership of Santos Laguna and remain active in the Mexican game, while continuing to develop its Sporting Gijón project in Spain.

The sale of Atlas marks the end of a historic era—and the beginning of a new chapter for one of Mexico’s most traditional clubs.