CVC Unveils $14bn Global Sport Group

CVC Capital Partners has established a new entity called Global Sport Group, a multibillion-dollar fund aimed at consolidating and expanding its sports investment portfolio. Valued at around $14 billion, this fund combines many of CVC’s existing stakes in global leagues and sports organisations to achieve operational coherence, enhancing negotiating power and generating more predictable long-term returns.

The new structure unifies several of CVC’s sports holdings, including its investments in LaLiga, Ligue 1, Premiership Rugby, the United Rugby Championship, the Six Nations, Volleyball World and WTA Ventures. The leadership of Global Sport Group includes experienced industry professionals, including senior executives with backgrounds in broadcasting, media rights and league operations.

A core objective of Global Sport Group is to increase valuations through bundled rights, cross-property sponsorships and unified governance. By combining multiple sports into a larger entity, CVC aims to strengthen its negotiating position with broadcasters, simplify sponsorship agreements across various competitions and generate new commercial synergies. The fund also plans to leverage the growing interest in women’s sports and emerging leagues while embracing innovations in streaming, fan engagement technology and global media platforms.

The launch of Global Sport Group comes after CVC have been exploring restructuring options to house most of its sports investments within a dedicated vehicle, sometimes referred to as “SportsCo.” This new structure will allow for minority outside investment while maintaining overall control for CVC, providing flexibility in raising capital while safeguarding its long-term influence over its sports portfolio.

Operationally, this initiative aims to deliver efficiencies across governance, media rights and global expansion. With the demand for sports content continuing to grow worldwide, primarily driven by digital platforms and younger audiences, CVC sees an opportunity to build a structure capable of capitalising on these trends. By bringing together diverse sports assets under one coordinated framework, the intention is to maximise efficiency and expand reach into new markets. 

However, challenges remain. Sports rights markets are inherently volatile, regulatory scrutiny of investment structures is on the rise and some of CVC’s previous ventures, particularly in rugby and football, have struggled to achieve sustainable growth. For Global Sport Group to succeed, it will need to generate consistent returns, secure buy-in from stakeholders across different sports and adapt quickly to the shifting landscape of global sports media.