Khaberni - Spanish club Atlético Madrid announced significant changes to its ownership structure after reaching an agreement with the “Apollo” group, which has become the club's largest shareholder. The announcement stated that previous shareholders, Miguel Ángel Gil and Enrique Cerezo, and the “Quantum Pacific” group along with “Ares Management” funds, have reached an agreement with the new investor to ensure the stability of the sports project.
The club confirmed that Gil will continue as CEO, while Cerezo remains as the club president, maintaining the vision and continuity. The announcement comes after Atlético's victory over Levante 3-1, bringing their points total to 25, putting them in fourth place in the Spanish league.
According to Reuters, Apollo will acquire nearly a 55% stake in the club, in a deal valuing the club at approximately 2.5 billion euros.
The current leadership will be maintained; Miguel Ángel Gil Marín will continue as CEO, and Enrique Cerezo as president of the club. The deal is still subject to regulatory approvals, and is expected to be finalized in the first quarter of 2026.
Club Atlético Madrid is currently managed through “Atlético HoldCo”, which owns about 70% of the club's stake, owned by a group of shareholders including Gil Marín, Cerezo, and Ares Management fund.
Over the past years, Club Atlético has been moving towards attracting capital for financing a major project “Ciudad del Deporte” adjacent to Metropolitano Stadium, and discussions with Apollo have been linked to this project.
What does this change mean for the club?
Apollo's entry as a major shareholder provides a significant financial boost that may help the club compete better in the transfer market and infrastructure.
Maintaining the current leadership means that the club wants institutional continuity without immediate drastic change, while preserving its identity and the local community.
On the other hand, the entry of such a large investment capital bears expectations of raising ambitions and possibly a medium-term sporting and administrative restructuring.
How has this news reflected?
Spanish media described it as an end of an era of Guil family dominance as the largest single shareholder, although the two key individuals will continue managing the club and investors and financial markets see in this deal a reflection of the increasing significance of European football as an investment-worthy asset.
What awaits the avid followers?
The club is expected to soon announce precise timelines for completing the deal, launching an updated investment plan, and possibly changes in the “Sports City” / infrastructure project
Questions are also raised about the impact of this investment on the football team, whether in contract policy or performance quality in the coming years.
