A significant development in the world of private equity and sports investment sees CVC, a leading private markets manager, finalize an agreement to purchase a majority stake in Equine Network. This prominent equestrian sports league, operating across the United States, is being acquired from Growth Catalyst Partners. This strategic move represents a landmark moment for CVC's Global Sports Group (GSG), signaling its first new league addition since its inception. The GSG's portfolio already boasts an impressive collection of eight leagues and competitions, underscoring CVC's deep commitment to the global sports landscape. The finalization of this deal is projected to occur in the second quarter of 2026, contingent upon receiving necessary regulatory clearances.
Following the acquisition, new leadership is set to steer Equine Network into its next phase of growth. Michelle Wilson and George Barrios, both directors within CVC's Global Sports Group and co-presidents of WWE, will assume the roles of co-chairs for Equine Network. They will join forces with Tom Winsor and the existing management team to guide the league's future direction. This leadership team is poised to leverage CVC's extensive experience in cultivating and scaling global sports platforms. As Winsor stated, CVC's proven track record, coupled with the GSG team's specialized knowledge, positions them as ideal partners for expanding the league, enhancing fan engagement through data-driven strategies, and uncovering new commercial avenues that will benefit all members and stakeholders. Wilson and Barrios echoed this sentiment, highlighting Equine Network's attractive standing within the expansive and participation-driven equestrian sports market, and its strong potential to capitalize on GSG's value creation capabilities.
The CVC Global Sports Group, established in 2025, serves as a comprehensive platform for CVC funds' holdings in various global sports leagues. Its diverse portfolio includes renowned entities such as La Liga, Ligue 1, the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), Volleyball World, and three major rugby competitions: Six Nations Rugby, Premiership Rugby, and the United Rugby Championship. This latest acquisition of Equine Network further solidifies CVC's position as a dominant force in sports investment, demonstrating its ongoing strategy to invest in and develop leading sports properties worldwide. The integration of Equine Network into this formidable group is expected to foster innovation and growth within the equestrian sports sector, promising a vibrant future for the league and its community.