Sports Investments Asia Gain Momentum as Wealthy Families Buy Team Stakes

Sports investments Asia are accelerating as wealthy families, institutional investors and private equity firms increasingly acquire minority stakes in sports teams, leagues and sports technology businesses rather than traditional sponsorship rights.

According to LSEG data, Asia-Pacific sports mergers and acquisitions reached a record USD3.69bn during the year to 13 July, more than 12 times the level recorded a year earlier, while global sports M&A remained broadly stable at USD8.34bn.

Investment bankers said minority acquisitions have become more attractive because outright ownership of leading sports franchises has become increasingly expensive and difficult to secure.

India has emerged as one of the region's most active markets, with the Goenka family exploring the sale of up to a 10% stake in Indian Premier League franchise Lucknow Super Giants.

The trend reflects growing recognition of professional sport as a long-term alternative asset class capable of generating value through media rights, digital platforms and expanding global fan engagement.