RedBird Capital contemplates sale of French club Toulouse

United States-based investment firm RedBird Capital Partners is reportedly considering selling French football club Toulouse, according to Bloomberg.

RedBird Capital acquired an 85% stake in Toulouse in 2020, marking a new era for the club. 

The New York-based investment firm boasts an extensive portfolio of sports investments, including Italian football club AC Milan.

Earlier this year, UEFA examined a potential conflict of interest arising from Toulouse and Milan’s participation in the same European competition. 

After the clubs committed to operating separately, UEFA cleared them to compete. RedBird founder Gerry Cardinale had to step down from his position on Toulouse’s board ahead of the ruling.

Under RedBird’s ownership, Toulouse achieved promotion to Ligue 1 from the second tier in France. 

They also won their first major trophy earlier this year, beating holders Nantes to claim the French Cup.

The timing of this potential sale coincides with Ligue 1’s ongoing negotiations for a new media rights deal, which is expected to significantly impact the club’s valuation and overall finances.

RedBird Capital’s discussions concerning Toulouse are in the preliminary stages, and there is no guarantee they will lead to a sale of the club, according to people familiar with the situation. 

A representative for RedBird Capital declined to provide any comment in response to enquiries.

Several European football clubs are seeking new investment, with owners looking to sell their stakes.

Manchester United owners, the Glazer family, are negotiating to sell a 25% stake to INEOS founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

West Ham United co-owner Vanessa Gold, daughter of the late David Gold, has announced she is considering selling her shares in the London club.

Fellow Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur are also exploring similar options.