Rugby: CVC Funds to acquire a 27% stake in Guinness Pro14 (£120m)

"The proposed acquisition by CVC Funds (CVC Capital Partners) of a certain ownership interest in the business of Celtic Rugby DAC (company in charge of Guinness Pro14 held by the Irish, Scottish and Welsh rugby unions/federations), has been notified to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission," stated the Irish body on 12/11/2019.

CVC plans to acquire a 27% stake for £120m (€140m), with each owner federation receiving £35m (€40.7m), while the participating South African and Italian teams should also benefit from the investment, according to the BBC. Once the acquisition is completed, CVC would obtain the marketing rights (sponsorship and media rights) to the Guinness Pro14. This agreement had previously been mentioned by the British media on 18/04/2019.

CVC Capital Partners holds a 27% stake in Premiership Rugby Limited, which has held the rights to Gallagher Premiership Rugby since an agreement was signed on 20/12/2018. CVC reportedly offered £200m (€221.9m) for these shares according to British media. The fund is also in advanced negotiations to take a stake in Six…