Source: Fortune
Summary
U.S. Soccer has confirmed that Mauricio Pochettino will remain the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team through 2030, with a philanthropic leadership gift from Ken Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel. Meanwhile, Major League Soccer has named Larry Berg, a co-owner of LAFC and a veteran of private equity firm Apollo Global Management, as its new commissioner. Berg’s background in private equity is seen as a key factor in his appointment. The moves reflect a growing trend of private equity firms investing in American soccer.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story. Private equity firms are increasingly investing in American soccer, with Citadel’s Ken Griffin supporting U.S. Soccer and Apollo Global Management’s Larry Berg becoming the new commissioner of Major League Soccer. Berg’s experience in private equity is seen as an asset in managing the league’s ownership group. The trend is part of a larger shift in the sports industry, with private equity firms investing in teams and leagues across the U.S.
Larry Berg’s appointment as commissioner is a sign that private equity is becoming more prominent in American soccer. His experience in managing a soccer club, LAFC, and his background in private equity are seen as key factors in his appointment. The league’s ownership group is also becoming more connected and aligned, with Berg citing the importance of collaboration and data-driven decision-making.
The announcement sounds familiar. Private equity firms are increasingly investing in sports teams and leagues, and American soccer is no exception. The trend is driven by the desire for institutional capital and expertise in managing complex businesses.
The strategy enters a familiar phase. Private equity firms are becoming more prominent in American soccer, with a focus on managing commercial rights and driving revenue growth. The joint venture between MLS and KKR to centrally manage commercial rights for MLS NEXT Pro clubs is a sign of this trend.
One thing is clear: private equity is here to stay in American soccer.
Author: Evan Null
