Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has purchased an equity stake in Atlético Madrid, joining the club’s ownership group alongside investment firm Apollo Sports Capital, as announced by the player and the Spanish club on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Joins Ownership Group
The Oklahoma City Thunder guard and reigning NBA Most Valuable Player formally entered the club’s capital structure ahead of the 2026-27 basketball season. The transaction was revealed via joint announcements on social media, with the Canadian star taking a position among the team’s stakeholders. Financial terms, including the precise equity percentage acquired by the player, were not disclosed in the official statements.
“I am thrilled to officially join the Atlético Madrid ownership group,” Gilgeous-Alexander said in a statement published by the club. “This is a club with a long history at the summit of European football, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of its future.”
Apollo Sports Capital Acquires Majority Stake in Atlético Madrid
The investment follows a major ownership shift at the Wanda Metropolitano, where American private equity firm Apollo Sports Capital acquired an 80 percent stake previously held by Spanish executive Enrique Cerezo in March 2026. Atlético Madrid officials noted that the addition of Gilgeous-Alexander reflects the organization’s wider strategy to expand its international reach and long-term development.
In a corresponding statement, the club emphasized the alignment between the incoming investor and the institution’s core principles. “This partnership is built on shared values: ambition, excellence, and the conviction that every result must be earned,” Atlético Madrid stated.
Cross-Sport Investments in European Football
Gilgeous-Alexander's entry into European soccer mirrors a trend of prominent North American basketball stars acquiring ownership interests in major European sports clubs. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James previously secured a stake in English Premier League side Liverpool, while Kevin Durant holds an investment in Paris Saint-Germain.
The Thunder guard has previously demonstrated visible support for the Madrid club by wearing team jerseys in public appearances, signaling a personal affinity that preceded his formal financial involvement. The investment comes as Gilgeous-Alexander prepares to lead Oklahoma City following a 2025 championship campaign and an individual season in which he averaged 31.1 points per game on 55.3 percent shooting.
Upcoming Liga Fixture Against Alavés
While Gilgeous-Alexander transitions into his new role as an equity partner, manager Diego Simeone’s squad prepares to resume domestic competition. Atlético Madrid returns to La Liga play on Saturday with an away fixture against Deportivo Alavés, looking to build momentum following their recent performances in the Madrid derby.
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