CAA Sports Acquires Portas Consulting to Expand Global Sports Advisory Services

Creative Artists Agency's sports division, CAA Sports, has announced the acquisition of Portas Consulting, a London-based global management consultancy specialising in the sports sector. This strategic move aims to enhance CAA Sports' global presence and service offerings, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. 

Portas Consulting, established in 2006, has built a reputation for advising governments, federations, and private sector organisations on sports policy, investment strategies, and event planning. With a team of over 160 consultants operating from offices in London, Riyadh, Dubai, and Singapore, the firm has delivered projects in more than 40 countries, including contributions to the London 2012 Olympic Games Legacy strategy and the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup. 

Following the acquisition, Portas Consulting will be rebranded as CAA Portas, operating as a distinct division within CAA Sports. Executive Chairman David Portas and Managing Partner Donal McElwee will continue to lead the team, bringing their expertise to CAA's expanding suite of services.

Paul Danforth, President of CAA Sports, commented on the acquisition: "The global sports marketplace is evolving rapidly, creating unprecedented opportunities for the agency and our clients in both established and emerging markets. By adding this unique expertise to our suite of services, we are uniquely positioned to help shape the future of the global sports industry." 

This acquisition aligns with CAA Sports' broader strategy to diversify its offerings beyond traditional talent representation. The agency has previously expanded into areas such as venue development through CAA Icon and executive search services. 

Donal McElwee expressed optimism about the partnership, stating: "We have grown organically by 30% annually throughout the last 10 years to become the leading independent advisor to senior leaders in sport. Our new goal is to expand even faster to create a world-leading end-to-end advisory business. CAA Sports is the ideal fit to achieve this growth and diversification for the benefit of the industry, our clients, and our people." 

The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals. Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.