CVC has agreed to acquire a controlling stake in Equine Network, the largest for-profit equestrian sports league in the US, marking the first new league investment for its Global Sport Group platform.

The deal brings Equine Network into a portfolio that already includes stakes in La Liga, Ligue 1, the Women’s Tennis Association, Volleyball World, Six Nations Rugby, Premiership Rugby, and the United Rugby Championship. CVC said the addition strengthens Global Sport Group’s exposure to the US market while diversifying into a new sport.

Founded by Tom Winsor, Equine Network has built a commercial platform spanning around 40 owned competitions and more than 800 sanctioned third-party events across Western and English disciplines. CVC estimates the US equestrian sports market at about $2.5bn.

“CVC’s investment experience in sports spans over twenty years and, while much has changed in that time, sports IP remains a very attractive opportunity in which we continue to see significant potential for further innovation and growth,” said Gemma Wright, partner in CVC’s sports, media and entertainment team.

Following completion, Michelle Wilson and George Barrios, directors of Global Sport Group and former co-presidents of WWE, are expected to become co-chairs of Equine Network.

The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. CVC was advised by Lazard, while Growth Catalyst Partners and Equine Network were advised by William Blair.

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