A-Leagues, Silver Lake Near $97M Equity Deal

Silver Lake Partners is close to acquiring a 30% stake in the Australian Professional Leagues for around $97 million, valuing the soccer competitions at more than $322 million, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

The deal would mark the largest-ever single cash injection into Australian club soccer, but it still requires regulatory approval.

The A-Leagues — which oversee Australia’s top-flight men’s and women’s clubs — will use the funds for investments, operating costs, marketing, and a new digital media platform.

Silver Lake has $88 billion in assets under management and committed capital, and its portfolio of brands generates more than $221 billion in annual revenue.

The investment firm has established quite the footprint in sports.

• It bought a 10% stake in Manchester City owner City Football Group for $500 million in 2019.
• It participated in a $325 million investment round for Fanatics in August.
• It’s purchasing a stake in Pro Football Focus reportedly worth $50 million.
• It’s teaming up with Endeavor to bid on minor league baseball teams.

The A-Leagues agreed to a five-year, $155.5 million domestic broadcast deal with ViacomCBS in May, beginning with the 2021-22 season. Games will air on Paramount+ and Australian provider Network 10.