SailGP’s New Zealand team sells majority stake to private equity firm MSP Sports Capital

June 19, 2026 - 17:09

The New Zealand SailGP team has become the final franchise in the 13-team league to bring in outside private investment, selling a majority stake to MSP Sports Capital. The deal marks a major shift for the team, which had been one of the last holdouts in a league where most squads have already partnered with deep-pocketed investors.

MSP Sports Capital, a global private equity firm with a growing portfolio in professional sports, will now hold a controlling interest in the New Zealand outfit. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, but sources indicate the valuation reflects the team's strong brand and competitive track record on the water.

The move completes the investment cycle across all SailGP teams, a milestone for the league as it pushes toward greater financial stability and expansion. For New Zealand, the deal brings new resources and operational expertise, which could help the team stay competitive against well-funded rivals like the United States and Australia.

Team CEO Tina Symmans said the partnership will allow the squad to invest in technology, talent, and infrastructure without sacrificing its core identity. MSP Sports Capital has previously invested in motorsports, soccer, and baseball, and sees SailGP as a growth opportunity in the fast-growing world of professional sailing.

The New Zealand team will continue to operate under its current branding and leadership, with MSP taking seats on the board. The league's next season is set to begin later this year, with all 13 teams now backed by private capital.