Major league investors: Private equity's pro sports ties

Updated August 12, 2026 with news about the Los Angeles Lakers’ reported sale.

Private equity sports investment is on the rise. As leagues have eased ownership rules, dealmakers spy opportunities to gain outsized returns and cultural influence.

As a result, deal activity within the sports ecosystem has surged, with more opportunities expected to emerge,according to a new PitchBook report.

It’s no wonder why: US sports teams’ valuations have grown faster than the S&P 500 in recent decades, prompting firms like Arctos Partners and Redbird Capital Partners to amass portfolios of minority stakes in teams.

This dashboard tracks every connection between North American men’s pro sports teams and PE firms and partners. It now includes the NFL following the league’s vote to allow PE investment. Did we miss something?Send feedback.