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Jay-Z’s Roc Nation Sports International buys prominent Brazilian soccer agency TFM

This strategic move solidifies the company as a global sports management industry powerhouse


Shirley Gomez
Senior Writer
JULY 11, 2023 11:51 AM EDT

Roc Nation Sports International, the sports management division of Jay-Z’s renowned entertainment company, Roc Nation, has recently made headlines with its acquisition of TFM, a prominent Brazilian soccer agency. This strategic move solidifies Roc Nation Sports International as a global sports management industry powerhouse.

TFM boasts an impressive roster of fútbol players, including Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid and Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal. These talented athletes will now join Roc Nation Sports‘ clientele, which includes renowned names such as Kevin De Bruyne from Manchester City and Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan.

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Jay Z and David Beckham attending the UEFA Champions League stage Group F soccer match, Paris Saint Germain Vs Fc Barcelona at Parc des Princes stadium in Paris, France on September 30th, 2014.

In an interview with Forbes, Michael Yormark, the President of Roc Nation Sports International, emphasized the significance of this acquisition, stating, “When you think about fútbol and talent, Brazil is undoubtedly the first market that comes to mind. TFM, with its exceptional portfolio of players, houses some of the finest talent in the world.”

Currently managing over 100 athletes across various professional sports, Roc Nation Sports International’s reach extends beyond fútbol. The agency represents individuals in basketball, football, and rugby and even boasts a select group of sports broadcasters and personalities within its ranks.

Yormark shed light on the motivation behind the acquisition, sharing, “Our aspiration was to establish our own office, start from scratch, and build something remarkable.” After three and a half years of meticulous planning and growth, the company realized that an acquisition aligned with its goals, objectives, and overall strategy would be the optimal path forward.

Brazil v Senegal   International Friendly© GettyImages
Vinicius Junior of Brazil in action during an International Friendly match between Brazil and Senegal at Estadio Jose Alvalade on June 20, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal.

He further expressed, “There’s no better way to surpass the competition than to acquire it.” This strategic move allows Roc Nation Sports International to solidify its position in the industry while leveraging the expertise and network of TFM to enhance its capabilities.

Currently ranked seventh on Forbes‘ list of North America’s most valuable sports agencies, Roc Nation Sports International’s estimated $2.6 billion in active athlete contracts showcases its substantial influence and success.

Frederico Pena, the founder of TFM, will spearhead a new Roc Nation Sports International office in Brazil, amplifying the agency’s presence in this crucial market.

With this acquisition, Roc Nation Sports International has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to providing exceptional representation and support to its clients while strategically expanding its global footprint. The fusion of talent, resources, and expertise from both entities promises an exciting future for Roc Nation Sports International as it continues to reshape the landscape of sports management.