Equine Network Acquired by Global Sports Group “CVC” as it Enters US Market

CVC, the leading global private markets manager, has entered an agreement to acquire a controlling stake in Equine Network, the largest for-profit equestrian sports league in the United States.

The investment, valued at approximately USD300 million (AUD458 million), marks the first new league acquisition for CVC’s newly consolidated Global Sport Group (GSG), expanding its portfolio to eight unique international competitions.

The deal is the diversification of GSG’s holdings into the high-margin participation-led US market. Equine Network, which operates 40 competitions and sanctions over 800 third-party events, provides GSG with a scalable platform in a USD2.5 billion (AUD3.5 billion) domestic equestrian industry. The acquisition is expected to close in Q2 2026, adding to a portfolio that already includes La Liga, Ligue 1, WTA, and Six Nations Rugby.

Commenting on their share acquisition, CEO of Equine Network, Tom Winsor, said: “We are excited to partner with CVC and Global Sport Group at a pivotal stage in Equine Network’s development.”

“CVC’s track record in scaling global platforms makes them ideal partners as we look to enhance fan engagement and unlock new commercial opportunities,” Winsor said. 

Emphasising the enduring value of sports IP, Partner at CVC, Gemma Wright, added: “Sports IP remains a very attractive opportunity in which we continue to see significant potential for further innovation,” Wright stated.

The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approvals before its expected finalisation in the coming months.

Strategic Growth and Governance Structure

Upon completion of the deal, GSG will implement a high-performance governance model led by industry veterans to drive the next phase of growth.

• Executive Leadership: Michelle Wilson and George Barrios, GSG directors and former Co-Presidents of WWE, are slated to become co-chairs of Equine Network.

• Revenue Projections: GSG assets are currently forecast to see revenue growth of approximately 10% per annum over the next five years.

• Market Consolidation: The investment allows CVC to apply its specialist ownership model to the fragmented US equestrian landscape, integrating digital membership services and enhanced event production.

Noting the potential for value creation, Michelle Wilson and George Barrios, noted: “Equine Network has an attractive position in a large, participation-led market… we look forward to supporting Tom and his team in their continued development.”

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