The Corporate team at Birketts has advised Arena Racing Company (ARC) on its acquisition of a 50% equity stake in INVADES, a leading sports media and events company known for its innovative approach to engaging younger audiences across a range of sporting disciplines.
The cross-office Birketts team was led by Rachel Astill, Legal Director (Corporate), supported by Macauley Alsford-White, Associate (Corporate), Lucy Easey, Solicitor (Corporate), and Lydia Hutchinson, Senior Associate (Corporate Tax).
Founded in 2019, INVADES has rapidly grown into a dynamic brand, hosting more than 450,000 attendees across events in the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Its race day experiences have helped attract a new audience to the sport in recent years.
This strategic investment marks a significant milestone in ARC’s ongoing commitment to expanding its reach and appeal to new audiences. ARC and INVADES have collaborated since 2019, and this deal formalises a partnership aimed at driving long-term growth and innovation in the sports and leisure sector.
Commenting on the deal, Rachel Astill said: “It’s been a pleasure to support ARC on this exciting investment. INVADES is a bold and forward-thinking business, and the synergy between the two organisations was clear from the outset. We’re proud to have played a role in helping ARC take this important step in broadening its engagement with the next generation of sports fans.”
Alex Slade, General Counsel of Arena Racing Company, added: “We’re delighted to have worked with Birketts on this transaction. Their pragmatic advice, hard work and commitment to getting the deal done were invaluable throughout the process. This investment in INVADES reflects our shared ambition to energise the sporting experience and connect with new audiences both in the UK and internationally.”