Private equity firm CVC Capital Partners' Global Sport Group has made its first acquisition by purchasing a majority stake in US equestrian league Equine Network for $300 million. The deal marks the division's entry into American horse sports, with founder Tom Winsor remaining as CEO. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026 pending regulatory approvals.
Less than five months after launching its dedicated sports division in September 2025, Luxembourg-based CVC Capital Partners has completed its inaugural deal through Global Sport Group (GSG). The unit acquired a controlling stake in Equine Network from Chicago-headquartered private equity firm Growth Catalyst Partners, valuing the company at $300 million, as confirmed by sources familiar with the matter.
Equine Network, described as the largest for-profit equestrian-based sports league in the US, owns and operates around 40 competitions across disciplines such as team roping, showjumping, and ranch sorting. Notable events include the World Series of Team Roping and National Team Roping, where two riders collaborate to catch and halt a steer. The organization also oversees more than 800 third-party events and generates revenue from competitions, league-related services, and member fees.
Tom Winsor, founder and CEO of Equine Network, will continue leading the company. In a statement, he expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: “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 building and scaling global sports platforms, combined with the expertise of the GSG team, makes them ideal partners as we look to expand our leagues, enhance fan engagement and data capabilities, as well as unlock new commercial opportunities for the benefit of our members and stakeholders.”
GSG directors Michelle Wilson and George Barrios, former co-presidents of WWE, are set to become co-chairs of Equine Network upon deal closure. They praised the business: “Having spent recent months working closely with Tom and his team, we are highly impressed by the business they have built. Equine Network has an attractive position in a large, participation-led equine sports market and is well positioned to benefit from GSG’s value creation capabilities.”
This acquisition diversifies GSG's portfolio, which now includes stakes in eight properties valued at $14 billion, such as LaLiga, the Women’s Tennis Association, Ligue 1, and the Gujarat Titans cricket franchise. Led by Marc Allera, GSG aims for 10% annual revenue growth over the next five years through sponsorships, data, and media deals. Meanwhile, CVC is seeking €2.7 billion in financing for further investments, with advisors including Goldman Sachs and potential equity from firms like Ares Management.
