The NWSL has implemented robust regulations governing private equity investment in its teams, ushering in a significant departure from previous practices. These rules, crafted to exclude sovereign wealth funds, aim to carefully manage the influence of private equity within the league.
Under the new guidelines, private equity funds face restrictions on holding passive minority stakes in more than three NWSL teams. These funds can hold equity ranging from 5% to 20% in each club, ensuring that no single team exceeds 30% of its total equity held by such funds.
It's crucial to note that these regulations specifically target private equity funds investing in multiple teams, leaving those investing in a single team unaffected by such restrictions.
Furthermore, these rules exclusively focus on private equity funds, refraining from extending similar rights to other forms of institutional capital, including sovereign wealth and pension funds. Any potential extension of these rights would necessitate approval from the league's board, aligning with efforts by other major U.S. sports leagues to regulate institutional investments for fairness and integrity.
While there are currently no funds reaching the three-team limit in the NWSL, instances of multi-ownership have occurred in the past.
The NWSL's regulations also dictate that funds with multiple stakes must commit a minimum capital of $100 million. Here, Fanschise can play a pivotal role, offering a unique platform for sports enthusiasts to engage in the ownership of professional sports franchises through fansfunding. This innovative model aligns with the evolving landscape of sports financing, providing an alternative to traditional private equity investment structures.
While these regulations align with those of other major leagues like the NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS, the NWSL has distinguished itself in certain aspects, showcasing its commitment to managing private equity influence while maintaining a competitive and fair landscape.