Two-time NBA champion and Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) Kevin Durant has expanded his investment portfolio by becoming a minority shareholder in Ligue 1’s Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). This move, reported by The Athletic, marks Durant’s foray into European football through his investment firm, Boardroom, and a strategic partnership with Arctos Sports Partners.
Durant’s investment in PSG comes through a “single digit millions” contribution facilitated by a financial vehicle created by Arctos Sports Partners. This vehicle was specifically designed to accommodate such investments.
In 2023, Arctos Sports Partners acquired a 12.5 percent stake in PSG, valuing the club at approximately 4.25 billion euros (about $4.65 billion). This valuation reflects PSG’s status as one of the premier football clubs globally, both in terms of performance and brand value.
Durant’s investment coincided with his visit to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, where he secured a gold medal with the USA men’s basketball team on August 10. During his time in Paris, Durant visited PSG’s new training center at Poissy, where he met with club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi. The meeting included Durant’s manager and co-founder of Boardroom, Rich Kleiman, and served as a platform for both parties to discuss and finalize the investment.
Al-Khelaifi expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership, stating, “It was an honor to welcome Kevin Durant to the Campus today and to witness his passion for Paris Saint-Germain and his recognition of the excellent sports facilities at our new PSG Campus training center. Kevin is an inspirational athlete, investor and all-round role model, both on and off the pitch. We are extremely proud of his connection to the Paris Saint-Germain family as we share the same values and vision. We look forward to strengthening our ties and working together with Kevin and Boardroom to bring the best in sport and entertainment to fans around the world.”
Durant’s investment in PSG aligns with his broader interest in sports business and global brand expansion. Through Boardroom, Durant has engaged in various ventures that leverage his influence and network in the sports and entertainment industries. His entry into European football via PSG not only diversifies his investment portfolio but also enhances his global presence as a sports investor.
PSG’s collaboration with high-profile athletes like Kevin Durant reflects its strategic approach to enhancing its brand visibility and market reach. The club has already established a strong association with Michael Jordan’s Jordan Brand, which has been a key partnership for over five years. This connection with prominent sports figures helps PSG strengthen its appeal to international audiences and fosters cross-sport collaborations.
Durant’s involvement with PSG is expected to bring fresh perspectives and opportunities for both the club and the investor. With shared values and a vision for excellence in sports and entertainment, this partnership has the potential to innovate fan engagement and business strategies, contributing to PSG’s ongoing success and growth.
