Olympique de Marseille owner Frank McCourt invests $300 million in new show jumping league

Frank McCourt, the owner of the French football club Olympique de Marseille, is reportedly investing a substantial $300 million into a new equestrian venture, the Premier Jumping League (PJL). This move into the world of show jumping comes as McCourt's football club faces significant financial challenges.

According to Bloomberg, the 72-year-old businessman plans to inject approximately 260 million euros into the PJL, which is set to launch in 2027. The league aims to attract top international riders through a franchise system and substantial prize money, with plans to create 16 teams, two of which have already been sold for $50 million each. The PJL guarantees $300 million in prize money over its first three seasons, funded by McCourt.

McCourt described show jumping as a sport with "billions and billions of dollars invested" but lacking a framework to manage such an influx. This significant investment in equestrian sports contrasts sharply with the financial situation at Olympique de Marseille. The club is under pressure to reinvest €120 million this year and is currently facing a transfer market freeze, being forced to sell players before making any new signings.

The PJL's structure includes a multi-month competition with recognized teams, a repechage system, and a regular calendar. This venture highlights McCourt's diversification of investments beyond football, even as his football club navigates a precarious financial period.