The Durban Sharks rugby team, officially known as the Hollywoodbets Sharks for sponsorship reasons, represents one of the most successful rugby franchises in South Africa. Based at the iconic Kings Park Stadium in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, the Sharks have built a formidable reputation both domestically and internationally. But who exactly owns this powerhouse rugby franchise?
The Current Ownership Structure
As of 2025, the Durban Sharks operate under a unique ownership model that combines international investment with local rugby tradition. MVM Holdings, a US-based investment consortium, holds the majority stake with 51% ownership of the franchise. The remaining 49% is jointly held by the KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union (KZNRU) and SuperSport International, maintaining a crucial link to the team’s South African roots.
This ownership arrangement came into effect in January 2021, marking a historic moment as the first instance of foreign majority ownership in South African professional rugby. The financial terms of the transaction remain confidential, though industry sources suggest the deal was worth approximately R100 million (around $6 million USD at the time).
Meet Marco Masotti: The Man Behind MVM Holdings
The driving force behind the Sharks’ transformation is Marco Masotti, a Durban-born, New York-based lawyer and investment specialist who spearheads MVM Holdings. Masotti’s connection to the Sharks runs deep – he grew up in Amanzimtoti, a coastal town south of Durban, and has been a lifelong Sharks supporter. His childhood passion for the team ultimately evolved into a major business venture.
Masotti’s expertise as a pre-eminent advisor to international asset management firms enabled him to assemble an impressive group of investors who share his vision for global rugby expansion. His New York base provides the franchise with crucial access to international markets and investment opportunities that were previously beyond reach.
The Star-Studded Investment Consortium
MVM Holdings isn’t just a one-man operation. The consortium includes some heavyweight names from the American business and sports world:
- Vincent Mai: Chairman and CEO of Cranemere LLC, with Eastern Cape roots and personal connections to Springbok players
- Marc Lasry: Founder of Avenue Capital and owner of the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks
- Doug Cifu: CEO of Virtu Financial and owner of the NHL’s Florida Panthers
- Robert D. Haswell: Founding Partner of Dominus Capital
- Dominic Silvester: CEO of Enstar Group Limited
- Michael Yormark: President of Roc Nation Sports International
The involvement of Roc Nation, the entertainment and sports management company founded by Jay-Z, adds a particularly intriguing dimension to the Sharks’ global branding strategy. This partnership aims to leverage Roc Nation’s expertise in athlete management and global marketing to expand the Sharks brand internationally.
From Stormers Rejection to Sharks Success
Interestingly, the Sharks weren’t MVM Holdings’ first choice. The consortium initially pursued a controlling stake in the Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU), which operates the Stormers franchise. However, those negotiations collapsed when Western Province leadership refused to relinquish majority control.
This rejection proved to be the Sharks’ gain. Unlike their Cape Town counterparts, the Sharks management, led by CEO Eduard Coetzee and KZNRU president Brian van Zyl, embraced the opportunity for international partnership. The deal was reportedly concluded with remarkable speed, reflecting the Sharks’ pragmatic approach to securing their financial future.
Strategic Vision and Global Ambitions
Under MVM Holdings’ ownership, the Sharks have articulated ambitious goals that extend far beyond South African borders. Masotti has boldly stated the franchise’s aim to become “the Liverpool of rugby” – a reference to the globally recognized English football club known for its international fanbase and commercial success.
The ownership group’s strategic plan includes several key elements:
- Player Development: Significant investment in player acquisitions and youth development programs
- Eastern Cape Expansion: Plans to establish rugby academies in the Eastern Cape region as feeder programs for the franchise
- Global Brand Building: Leveraging international connections to establish the Sharks as a worldwide rugby brand
- Commercial Growth: Utilizing the consortium’s business expertise to maximize revenue streams and sponsorship opportunities
Recent Success and Future Prospects
The ownership change has coincided with notable on-field achievements. In 2024, the Sharks made history by becoming the first South African team to win a European trophy, claiming victory in the EPCR Challenge Cup. They also captured the Carling Currie Cup in 2024, demonstrating that the investment is already yielding dividends on the field.
The franchise now competes in the prestigious United Rugby Championship (URC), having transitioned from Super Rugby in 2021. Their best URC performance to date includes reaching the semi-finals in the 2024-25 season and winning the South African conference shield.
The Bottom Line
The Durban Sharks’ ownership represents a fascinating blend of global ambition and local heritage. With MVM Holdings’ 51% controlling stake bringing international expertise and financial resources, while the KZNRU and SuperSport’s combined 49% ensures continuity with South African rugby traditions, the franchise appears well-positioned for future success.
This ownership model may well serve as a template for other South African rugby franchises looking to secure their financial sustainability while maintaining competitive excellence in an increasingly globalized sport. As the Sharks continue to build their international profile under American ownership, they remain uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between South African rugby heritage and global commercial success.
