Canada marks a first for private equity in women’s sports

A London-based private equity firm is investing at least $20 million into Canada’s pro women’s soccer league, the Northern Super League. The Sports Business Journal, citing The Globe and Mail, says APEX Capital has never previously invested in women’s sports but notes that overall investment could reach $30 million. The Northern Super League, founded just last year, says the transaction is the first-ever private equity investment in a professional women’s soccer league. “Women’s sports have evolved into a powerful global product with undeniable momentum,” says João Verol Marques, partner and head of growth and private equity at APEX. “The league has every right, and every ingredient, to become one of the top leagues globally.” The league has six teams.