Powerleague, the UK’s original and premier provider of commercial small-sided football, has been acquired for an undisclosed sum by Broadsword Investment Management Ltd, a UK-based private equity firm focused on real estate-backed growth opportunities.
Under the new ownership, Powerleague’s existing management team will remain in place, supported by Broadsword to deliver an ambitious growth strategy.
Powerleague currently operates 43 clubs across the UK, welcoming over 9 million customers annually. In addition to its core football offering, the business manages over 250 third-party venues that provide both football and netball. As part of its evolution into a football-first, leading multi-sport operator, Powerleague announced plans earlier this year to introduce padel – the world’s fastest-growing participation sport – to nearly half of its clubs nationwide.
The acquisition will accelerate a significant investment plan, including the development of brand-new Football and Padel Clubs within the next 24 months. Broadswords Investment will create 18 padel clubs within existing sites, delivering 76 courts by 2026 and making the sport accessible to over 200,000 players annually.
The business continues to invest in its football clubs, with pitch regeneration and new site development central to its 2025 strategy. It is also expanding its third-party venue network in schools and leisure facilities to promote the benefits of sport and increase participation across UK communities.
Christian Rose, CEO of Powerleague, commented:
“This is a hugely exciting moment for Powerleague. Partnering with Broadsword gives us the platform to accelerate our growth, invest in our clubs, and bring new sports like Padel to communities across the UK. While football remains at the heart of everything we do, we’re proud to be evolving into a true multi-sport operator. Our mission remains clear, to make sport more accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone.”
Daniel Sennett, Co-Founder and CEO of Broadsword, added:
“We look forward to supporting the excellent management team in their efforts to build on the success of this world-class small-sided football business, as well as assisting them as they capitalise on the significant opportunity to grow into padel. With a national footprint and 9 million annual players, the opportunity for Powerleague to become a multi-sports operator is exciting. We are looking forward to going on that journey with Christian and his team.”
Founded in 2024, Broadsword invests in companies with strong management teams and significant growth potential.
