The United States SailGP team has been purchased by technology investor and founding Uber engineer Ryan McKillen, Margaret McKillen, and two-time world champion sailor Mike Buckley.
They are joined by a diverse group of investors representing the sport, technology, entertainment and media industries.
According to a statement by SailGP, ‘The Avenue Sports Fund, led by Avenue Capital Group CEO Marc Lasry, is the lead investor in what will be the largest team acquisition in SailGP history.’
Other members of the investment group include actress and producer Issa Rae; world champion heavyweight boxer Deontay Wilder; global DJ and producer Gryffin; and NFL stars DeAndre Hopkins, Malik Jackson, Roquan Smith and Kayvon Thibodeaux. Additional members include University of Alabama football star Dallas Turner; former US soccer player Jozy Altidore; University of Michigan basketball legend Katelynn Flaherty Yates; Muse Capital’s Assia Grazioli-Venier; and serial entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk.’
Under the new US SailGP Team structure, Ryan McKillen will serve as Chairman, and Mike Buckley as Chief Executive Officer. The team has appointed seven-time world champion sailor Taylor Canfield as team driver.
Ryan McKillen, Co-Owner and Chairman of the US SailGP Team, said, “By bringing together this remarkable group to acquire the United States SailGP Team, we have reached an important milestone in the growth of our sport.
“As sailors, we love this sport and want to introduce it to millions; as entrepreneurs, we recognize the potential and growth trajectory of SailGP and how our US SailGP Team can introduce the future of on-water racing at the highest level. Our incredible ownership group is a testament to the growth and expansion of SailGP into the mainstream.”
Marc Lasry, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Avenue Capital group, added, “The investment by the Avenue Sports Fund in the US SailGP Team is a perfect fit for our strategy of supporting emerging sports and leagues to capitalise on the globalisation of sports and related areas of potential rapid growth.
“We are thrilled to join Ryan, Margaret, Mike and the broader investor group as the U.S. SailGP Team competes on an exciting global stage.”
SHORTS: BEEF JOHNSTON, BRIGHT PARTNERSHIPS, EFL
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