Apollo announced the formation of Apollo Sports Capital (ASC), a new investment platform dedicated to the fast-growing global sports and live events sector. Al Tylis, a seasoned sports investor and executive, has been appointed CEO, with Apollo partners Rob Givone and Lee Solomon serving as co-portfolio managers and Sam Porter named chief strategy officer. 

ASC will primarily target credit and hybrid investments across franchises, leagues, venues, media, and events. “With Apollo Sports Capital, we’ve set out to build the preeminent investment company in the growing world of sports. Our aim is to create durable, long-term value not only for investors but also for fans, teams, and communities,” said John Zito, co-president of Apollo Asset Management. 

Tylis brings extensive experience, having owned or led investments in Club Necaxa, La Equidad, and the Brooklyn Pickleball Team, while serving on boards including G2 Esports and the United Pickleball Association. He emphasized ASC’s differentiation through patient capital and flexible strategies that extend beyond equity-only models. 

Apollo has already deployed $17 billion across sports and entertainment assets, including stadium financings, league transactions, and media rights. The launch comes amid a wave of institutional capital flowing into the sports sector, highlighted by last week’s announcement that the New England Patriots agreed to sell an 8% minority stake in the franchise to private equity firm Sixth Street and billionaire investor Dean Metropoulos 

Other notable deals include Silver Lake’s $25 billion acquisition of Endeavor, a $6.1 billion deal for the Boston Celtics, and the recent creation of Cynosure | Checketts Sports Capital, targeting $1.2 billion in commitments.