McLaren Secures £185m US Investment

McLaren Racing has secured a new £185 million investment from a US-based consortium, valuing the team at £560 million.

New York-based investment firm MSP Sports Capital, along with co-investment from The Najafi Companies and UBS O’Connor, has initially acquired 15% of the firm running McLaren’s Formula 1 and IndyCar teams, but that will rise to 33%.

The deal will also see Jahm Najafi, Chairman and CEO, The Najafi Companies, become one of the team’s Vice Chairmen, while MSP and UBS O’Connor will also gain representation on the McLaren Racing Board.

“This investment represents a key moment in the progress of McLaren Racing. MSP is first and foremost a sports investor,” said Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing. “They know the market and their team has considerable experience and proven success in global sports properties. They are a partner as much as a shareholder, with the ability to leverage their network and knowledge for the long-term benefit of McLaren Racing.”  

Steven Wasserman, Principal, MSP, added: “We are delighted to invest in McLaren Racing and are excited by the prospects for the business. It is an honor to be a part of this storied franchise. We see significant growth potential in all of our investments and believe that McLaren’s history, management and cutting-edge technology capability make it an ideal partnership for our organisation.” 

Jahm Najafi, Principal, MSP said, “As a Principal at MSP, I am delighted that we have been able to execute on such an exciting transaction and feel privileged to help steward and support such an enduring and admired company. We feel strongly in both the asset quality and our execution capabilities, such that my firm, The Najafi Companies, has decided to come in as a co-investor.”

MSP’s recent investments include stakes in Belgian Juplier League football team Waasland Beveren, and Portuguese side Estoril.