Why is Mercedes F1 now worth more than Liverpool, Barcelona & PSG?
The world of sports has witnessed a significant shift in recent years, with the lines between traditional sports and modern entertainment blurring. The rise of Formula 1 (F1) as a global phenomenon has led to a surge in its popularity, attracting new fans and investors alike. In a recent development, CrowdStrike Founder George Kurtz has acquired a 15% stake in Toto Wolff’s investment company, which owns one-third of the Mercedes F1 team. This deal has put a whopping ₹53,774 crore valuation on the team, making it one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world.
The ₹2,688 crore deal gives Kurtz an effective 5% stake in the Mercedes F1 team, marking a significant investment in the sport. This move has sparked interest among sports enthusiasts and investors, who are now taking notice of the immense potential of F1 as a lucrative business opportunity. The valuation of Mercedes F1 has surpassed that of some of the biggest football clubs in the world, including Liverpool (₹48,397 crore), Barcelona (₹50,637 crore), and PSG (₹41,227 crore), according to Forbes estimates.
So, what makes Mercedes F1 so valuable? The answer lies in the team’s incredible success on the track, combined with its strong brand presence and lucrative sponsorship deals. Mercedes has been a dominant force in F1, winning multiple championships in recent years. The team’s success has led to a significant increase in its brand value, making it an attractive proposition for investors.
Another factor contributing to the team’s valuation is its strong revenue stream. F1 teams generate revenue through a combination of sponsorship deals, prize money, and broadcasting rights. Mercedes F1 has some of the most lucrative sponsorship deals in the sport, with partners like Petronas, Pirelli, and IWC. The team’s revenue has been consistently increasing over the years, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
The investment by George Kurtz is a testament to the growing appeal of F1 as a business opportunity. Kurtz, who is the founder of cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, has a net worth of over $2.5 billion. His investment in Mercedes F1 marks a significant foray into the world of sports, and is likely to be followed by other investors.
The deal also highlights the growing importance of F1 as a global sports platform. The sport has a massive following worldwide, with millions of fans tuning in to watch races every weekend. The global reach of F1, combined with its high-energy action and cutting-edge technology, makes it an attractive platform for brands and investors.
The valuation of Mercedes F1 is also a reflection of the sport’s growing popularity in recent years. F1 has undergone a significant transformation, with the introduction of new teams, drivers, and regulations. The sport has also become more accessible, with the rise of social media and online streaming platforms. The result has been a significant increase in viewership and engagement, making F1 a more attractive proposition for investors.
In conclusion, the valuation of Mercedes F1 at ₹53,774 crore is a testament to the team’s incredible success on and off the track. The investment by George Kurtz marks a significant milestone in the team’s history, and is likely to be followed by other investors. As F1 continues to grow in popularity, we can expect to see more investments and partnerships in the sport. The future of F1 looks bright, and it will be exciting to see how the sport evolves in the coming years.
For more information on this story, please visit: https://www.reuters.com/business/crowdstrike-founder-kurtz-buys-into-mercedes-f1-team-2025-11-20/
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