Atletico Madrid is set to change ownership as Apollo Global Management, an American private equity firm, is acquiring 55% of the shares of the Spanish football club. The transaction, which was agreed upon in November, is expected to be finalized on March 12, marking the formal transfer of ownership. The deal values Atletico Madrid at approximately €2.5 billion, including its debts, and is being executed through Apollo Sports Capital, which has already received the necessary regulatory approvals.

As part of the transition, current CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín will reduce his ownership stake to around 10%, while Quantum Pacific, a British firm led by Israeli billionaire Idan Ofer, will become the second-largest shareholder with about 25% ownership. This acquisition represents a significant shift in the management and funding of Atletico Madrid, a club that has been a historic player in European football.

The implications of this acquisition are substantial, as it will likely influence the club's financial strategy and investment in player acquisitions. With the growing trend of private equity in sports, this move by Apollo could signal a new era for Atletico Madrid, potentially impacting their competitive stance both in La Liga and on the European stage.