Key facts
- SailGP has completed the sale of its New Zealand team to MSP Sports Capital.
- This transaction means all 13 SailGP teams are now privately owned.
- MSP Sports Capital previously held a stake in the McLaren Formula 1 team.
- The New Zealand SailGP team is considered a flagship franchise by MSP.
- SailGP CEO Sir Russell Coutts described the sale as a significant milestone.
SailGP has announced the completion of the sale of its New Zealand team to private equity firm MSP Sports Capital. This transaction marks a significant milestone as it signifies the final team in the 13-strong fleet to be acquired by private investors, moving from ownership by the competition's organizers to private hands.
SailGP CEO and co-founder Sir Russell Coutts hailed the deal as a validation of the competition's vision to attract world-class investors and sports operators. MSP Sports Capital, led by Jahm Najafi and Jeff Moorad, previously sold its stake in the McLaren Formula 1 team and provided an £185 million loan to Everton for stadium construction.
MSP chairman Jahm Najafi expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, calling SailGP one of the fastest-growing sports leagues and identifying the New Zealand team as a flagship franchise. MSP CEO Jeff Moorad stated the firm's straightforward vision is to win championships, represent New Zealand at the highest level, and build upon the nation's sailing heritage, partnering with team leaders Peter Burling and Blair Tuke.