SA Rugby is reportedly on the verge of completing a multi-million dollar investment with American sports company Ackerley Partners.
According to a report on US media outlet Sportico, Ackerley will invest $75 million (R1.4 billion) in a new business venture that will hold all current and future revenue-generating assets of the world champions Springboks and SARU.
It is understood that the aim is to expand sponsorship, broadcasting, content and matchday revenue, with SARU’s share of the proceeds set to fund the costs of running the amateur game in the Republic.
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“When we think about the two most storied teams in the world today, we see that as the All Blacks and the Springboks,” Ackerley co-founder Chris Ackerley was quoted by Sportico.
“To work with SARU to bring this brand to the next level globally is an incredible opportunity.”
Ackerley’s potential investment follows negotiations between SA Rugby and CVC Capital Partners. If realised, this marks the second instance of US investment in SA rugby, following MVM Holdings’ stake in the Sharks since 2021.
Photo: Gallo Images/Misha Jordaan