Executive Summary

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has officially expanded his business portfolio by becoming a minority shareholder in French Ligue 2 club Le Mans FC, according to statements released by the club this week. Through his investment vehicle NxtPlay Capital, Courtois joins a high-profile ownership consortium led by Brazilian fund OutField, which also includes tennis legend Novak Djokovic and former Formula 1 drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen. This strategic move highlights the growing trend of active elite athletes diversifying into sports ownership while continuing their playing careers at the highest level.

The Deal: A Star-Studded Consortium

According to reporting from Various News Agencies, the acquisition was formalized in mid-February 2026. While the Brazilian investment fund OutField serves as the majority shareholder, Courtois’ entry brings significant footballing expertise to the group.

• Investment Vehicle: NxtPlay Capital (Courtois’ private firm).
• Partners: Novak Djokovic, Felipe Massa, Kevin Magnussen.
• Club Status: Le Mans FC currently sits 5th in Ligue 2, actively chasing promotion to the French top flight.

Sources indicate that the ownership group’s immediate priority is to stabilize the club’s financial structure and push for a return to Ligue 1. The addition of a current Champions League winner to the boardroom is expected to enhance the club’s global brand visibility and attractiveness to sponsors.

The Rise of the ‘Athlete-Investor’

Courtois’ move places him among a select group of footballers who are purchasing equity in clubs while still active on the pitch. Market analysts note that this trend is reshaping the sports business landscape, as players seek to leverage their capital and industry knowledge before retirement.

• Kylian Mbappé: Recently acquired a majority stake in SM Caen.
• Vinícius Júnior: Reportedly holds an investment interest in Portuguese club Alverca SC.

“The ambition is to build a sustainable football club rooted in the city’s iconic motorsport heritage,” a club statement revealed, emphasizing the synergy between the new investors’ backgrounds in high-performance sports.

Balancing Business and the Bernabéu

Despite this significant business venture, Courtois remains fully committed to his playing career. Reporting from Sports Illustrated and Marca confirms that the Belgian shot-stopper recently extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2027. Furthermore, sources close to the player suggest he is targeting a return to the Belgium national team for the 2026 World Cup under new manager Rudi Garcia, dispelling any rumors that this investment signals an imminent retirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Thibaut Courtois own Le Mans FC entirely?
No. Thibaut Courtois is a minority shareholder through his company NxtPlay Capital. The majority owner is the Brazilian investment fund OutField.

2. Is Thibaut Courtois retiring from football to manage the club?
No. Courtois remains the first-choice goalkeeper for Real Madrid, with a contract running until 2027, and has expressed ambitions to play in the 2026 World Cup.

3. Who else is involved in the Le Mans FC ownership group?
Alongside Courtois, the minority investors include tennis star Novak Djokovic and former F1 drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen.

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Tags: Thibaut Courtois, Le Mans FC, Athlete Investments