The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee is in the advanced stages of establishing a distinct commercial entity designed to sell a stake in Team USA’s commercial rights to private investors in exchange for capital, according to multiple reports.
This initiative represents a major structural shift for the USOPC, a non-profit organization that operates without government funding and relies heavily on corporate sponsorships, licensing agreements, and commercial revenue streams.
Board meeting minutes reveal that the proposed commercial arm has been in development for several months and is named United States Olympic and Paralympic Ventures.
During those meetings, USOPC Chief Executive Sarah Hirshland reported positive early feedback from initial discussions with prospective strategic and investment partners, noting that potential investors validated the strategic rationale and vision behind USOPV.
Sky News reported that investment bank Raine Group is advising the USOPC on the deal, which could value the commercial venture in the billions of dollars. Raine Group did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The move comes as the United States prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, capitalizing on surging investor demand for high-profile sports intellectual property and assets. Team USA routinely tops the Summer Games medal tally and features globally recognized figures including Simone Biles, top track athletes, and NBA stars.
Hirshland confirmed to Reuters that the USOPC is preparing to transition away from United States Olympic and Paralympic Properties, its joint commercial venture with the LA28 organizing committee that concludes following the Los Angeles Games.
Describing the pivot as a natural transition point planned for over two years, Hirshland noted that the precise commercial model for USOPV remains in progress and declined to provide specific financial terms.
Following the 2028 Los Angeles Games, the US will turn its focus toward hosting the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah. Hirshland emphasized that the committee aims to build sustainable, consistent commercial strength capable of supporting both Utah 34 and future American host cities. “We’re obviously very focused on how do we create a sort of sustainable and consistent commercial strength that will both incorporate potential host cities, in this case obviously Utah 34, but also a structure that would.
The decision highlights a broader trend among sports governing bodies seeking private capital to unlock the value of their commercial rights and fund long-term growth. In an official statement, the USOPC stated it is evaluating multiple commercial paths to generate new resources for national governing bodies and athletes while protecting its core mission, governance, and leadership, adding that athlete and federation representatives have been consulted throughout.
The USOPC’s exploration of private equity follows FIFA’s recent decision to abandon a proposed $20bn commercial subsidiary for the World Cup and other tournaments after plans to sell up to a 20% stake sparked a widespread backlash across global soccer that threatened FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s position.
