Owning a sports team isn’t just about cheering from the sidelines—it’s a high-stakes game of wealth, strategy, and global influence. In 2025, the world’s richest sports team owners are not only shaping their franchises but also redefining the business of sports. From tech titans to retail heirs, these billionaires wield their fortunes to build empires that extend far beyond the field. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of the 25 wealthiest sports team owners, their net worths, and the legacies they’re crafting.
Why Sports Ownership Matters in 2025
Sports ownership has become a status symbol for the ultra-wealthy, blending passion with profit. These owners don’t just buy teams—they invest in cultural icons, global brands, and lucrative revenue streams. In 2025, the combined net worth of the top 25 sports team owners is a staggering $607 billion, a testament to the soaring value of sports franchises.
The Evolution of Sports as a Business
Gone are the days when owning a team was a local passion project. Today, it’s a global enterprise driven by media deals, sponsorships, and fan engagement. Owners leverage their wealth to fund state-of-the-art stadiums, sign megastar athletes, and tap into emerging markets like China and India.
The Financial Stakes
The financial rewards are immense. For example, the Dallas Cowboys, owned by Jerry Jones, are valued at $10.1 billion, generating $564 million in profit in 2025 alone. This profitability stems from smart investments in stadium ownership, merchandising, and global branding.
The Top 10 Richest Sports Team Owners in 2025
The 2025 Forbes World’s Billionaires list highlights the crème de la crème of sports team owners. Below, we explore the top 10, their net worths, teams, and sources of wealth, with insights into their impact on the sports world.
1. Steve Ballmer – $118 Billion
Team: Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)
Source of Wealth: Microsoft
Citizenship: United States
Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO, tops the list with a net worth of $118 billion. His purchase of the Clippers in 2014 for $2 billion was a game-changer, and the team’s value has since soared to $4.65 billion. The opening of the Intuit Dome in 2024, a high-tech arena hosting over a million fans annually, underscores his vision for transforming the franchise.
2. Rob Walton – $110 Billion
Team: Denver Broncos (NFL)
Source of Wealth: Walmart
Citizenship: United States
Walmart heir Rob Walton trails closely with $110 billion. His 2022 purchase of the Broncos for $4.65 billion set a record, and the team’s value has climbed to $5.5 billion. Walton’s wealth surged by $32.6 billion in 2024, driven by Walmart’s stock doubling, proving his financial acumen extends beyond retail.
3. Miriam Adelson – $32.1 Billion
Team: Dallas Mavericks (NBA)
Source of Wealth: Casinos
Citizenship: United States
Miriam Adelson, widow of casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, entered sports ownership in 2023 with the Mavericks. Her tenure began controversially with the trade of Luka Doncic, but her $32.1 billion fortune ensures she’s a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.
4. Daniel Gilbert – $27.8 Billion
Team: Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA)
Source of Wealth: Mortgage Lending
Citizenship: United States
Daniel Gilbert, founder of Rocket Companies, owns the Cavaliers, valued at $3.95 billion. Despite market fluctuations, his $27.8 billion net worth reflects his knack for turning investments into gold, keeping the Cavs competitive in the post-LeBron era.
5. Idan Ofer – $22.5 Billion
Team: FC Famalicão (Portuguese Primeira Liga)
Source of Wealth: Shipping
Citizenship: Israel
Israeli shipping magnate Idan Ofer joined the list with his ownership of FC Famalicão and a stake in Atlético Madrid. His $22.5 billion fortune grew 42% in 2024, bringing stability to the Portuguese club, though it’s yet to challenge for top honors.
6. François Pinault – $21.7 Billion
Team: Stade Rennais FC (Ligue 1)
Source of Wealth: Luxury Goods
Citizenship: France
Luxury goods titan François Pinault has owned Stade Rennais since 1998. Despite a 31% drop in his net worth to $21.7 billion, his commitment to the club remains unwavering, even if Ligue 1 titles have eluded them.
7. Steve Cohen – $21.3 Billion (Tie)
Team: New York Mets (MLB)
Source of Wealth: Hedge Funds
Citizenship: United States
Hedge fund mogul Steve Cohen made headlines with a $765 million contract for Juan Soto, showcasing his willingness to flex his $21.3 billion fortune. His plans for a Queens casino further cement his influence in New York sports.
7. David Tepper – $21.3 Billion (Tie)
Teams: Carolina Panthers (NFL), Charlotte FC (MLS)
Source of Wealth: Hedge Funds
Citizenship: United States
David Tepper’s dual ownership in the NFL and MLS highlights his $21.3 billion empire. While the Panthers struggle, Charlotte FC’s playoff appearances and strong attendance show his soccer venture’s success.
9. Henry Samueli – $19.7 Billion
Team: Anaheim Ducks (NHL)
Source of Wealth: Semiconductors
Citizenship: United States
Broadcom co-founder Henry Samueli’s $19.7 billion fortune grew 40% in 2024. His overhaul of the Ducks has sparked speculation about further NHL investments, showcasing his financial prowess.
10. Stephen Ross – $18.4 Billion
Team: Miami Dolphins (NFL)
Source of Wealth: Real Estate
Citizenship: United States
Real estate magnate Stephen Ross sold 10% of the Dolphins and related assets for $8.1 billion, boosting his $18.4 billion net worth by 82%. His strategic moves keep the Dolphins a financial powerhouse.
Comparing the Top Owners: Wealth and Impact
| Rank | Owner | Net Worth | Team(s) | Source of Wealth | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steve Ballmer | $118B | Los Angeles Clippers | Microsoft | Opened Intuit Dome in 2024 |
| 2 | Rob Walton | $110B | Denver Broncos | Walmart | Record $4.65B Broncos purchase |
| 3 | Miriam Adelson | $32.1B | Dallas Mavericks | Casinos | Acquired Mavericks in 2023 |
| 4 | Daniel Gilbert | $27.8B | Cleveland Cavaliers | Mortgage Lending | Cavs valued at $3.95B |
| 5 | Idan Ofer | $22.5B | FC Famalicão | Shipping | 42% wealth increase in 2024 |
Pros and Cons of Sports Ownership
Pros:
- Brand Building: Owning a team enhances personal and corporate brand visibility.
- Financial Returns: Teams like the Cowboys and Clippers show massive ROI.
- Cultural Influence: Owners shape fan experiences and community pride.
Cons:
- High Risk: Teams like the Mets face losses due to high payrolls.
- Fan Pressure: Poor performance can lead to backlash, as seen with Tepper’s D- rating.
- Regulatory Hurdles: Projects like Cohen’s casino face zoning challenges.
The Global Reach of Sports Ownership
Sports ownership in 2025 is a global phenomenon, with owners hailing from the U.S., Israel, France, and beyond. Basketball leads with 13 teams (11 NBA, 2 WNBA), followed by soccer (12 teams) and the NFL (8 teams). Notably, only one MLB owner, Steve Cohen, made the list, reflecting baseball’s financial challenges.
The Rise of Soccer Ownership
European soccer clubs like FC Famalicão and Stade Rennais highlight the growing appeal of soccer for billionaires. The inclusion of MLS and Women’s Super League teams shows the sport’s expanding footprint, driven by global fanbases and media deals.
American Dominance
The NFL and NBA dominate due to massive TV contracts and sponsorships. The Cowboys’ $10.1 billion valuation and the Lakers’ $7.1 billion underscore the financial might of American sports franchises.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Who is the richest sports team owner in 2025?
Steve Ballmer, with a net worth of $118 billion, is the richest sports team owner, thanks to his ownership of the Los Angeles Clippers and his Microsoft fortune.
How much is the Dallas Cowboys’ owner worth?
Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, has a net worth of $16.6 billion. His team’s $10.1 billion valuation makes it the world’s most valuable sports franchise.
Why are there no Indian owners on the 2025 list?
While Mukesh Ambani topped the 2023 list with the Mumbai Indians, Forbes’ 2025 methodology focuses on first-tier leagues, excluding cricket-heavy owners.
What makes sports teams so profitable?
Lucrative TV deals, sponsorships, and stadium ownership drive profitability. For example, the Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium maximizes revenue through events and partnerships.
The Business Behind the Teams
Owning a sports team is a masterclass in business strategy. Owners like Ballmer and Walton don’t just rely on game-day revenue—they tap into:
- Media Rights: NFL and NBA teams benefit from multi-billion-dollar broadcast deals.
- Sponsorships: Global brands pay top dollar to align with iconic teams.
- Merchandising: Cowboys-branded gear is a global bestseller.
- Digital Ventures: NFTs and fan engagement apps are emerging revenue streams.
Case Study: Steve Ballmer’s Intuit Dome
Ballmer’s $2 billion investment in the Intuit Dome transformed the Clippers’ identity. Hosting over 100 events in its first year, the arena is a blueprint for how owners can diversify revenue while enhancing fan experiences. Learn more about the Intuit Dome.
Challenges and Risks of Sports Ownership
Despite the glamour, sports ownership isn’t all wins. Owners face:
- Financial Losses: The Mets’ $292 million operating loss in 2025 highlights the risks of high payrolls.
- Fan Backlash: Tepper’s low NFLPA rating shows how poor performance can strain fan relations.
- Regulatory Issues: Cohen’s casino project faces zoning hurdles, delaying potential revenue.
Navigating Fan Expectations
Owning a team means balancing business with passion. Fans expect wins, but owners like Pinault, whose Stade Rennais hasn’t won Ligue 1, face criticism despite their financial clout. A personal anecdote: I once attended a Clippers game and felt the electric atmosphere of Ballmer’s vision firsthand—proof that a great owner can elevate the fan experience.
Tools and Resources for Aspiring Owners
Want to dive into the world of sports ownership? Here are some tools and resources:
- Forbes Billionaires List: Track the wealthiest owners and their strategies. Forbes.com
- Sportico Valuations: Analyze team valuations and profitability. Sportico.com
- Financial Advisors: Firms like Goldman Sachs offer insights for high-net-worth individuals eyeing sports investments.
- Sports Management Courses: Programs at universities like NYU provide knowledge on running a franchise.
FAQ
How do sports team owners make money?
Owners profit through ticket sales, media rights, sponsorships, and merchandising. Stadium ownership, like the Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium, significantly boosts revenue.
Why is Steve Ballmer so wealthy?
Ballmer’s wealth stems from his Microsoft shares, amassed during his tenure as CEO from 2000 to 2014. His Clippers ownership adds to his brand but isn’t his primary wealth source.
Can anyone buy a sports team?
While anyone with enough capital can buy a team, the process involves intense scrutiny from leagues like the NFL or NBA, requiring financial stability and strategic vision.
Are sports teams good investments?
Yes, but they’re risky. The Cowboys’ value has soared, but teams like the Mets face losses due to high costs. Long-term growth often outweighs short-term risks.
What’s the most valuable sports team in 2025?
The Dallas Cowboys, owned by Jerry Jones, are valued at $10.1 billion, making them the world’s most valuable sports franchise.
The Future of Sports Ownership
As we look to 2030, sports ownership will evolve with digital trends like NFTs, AI-driven fan experiences, and global expansion. The Cowboys or Yankees could hit a $15 billion valuation, while owners like Ballmer continue to innovate. The game isn’t just on the field—it’s in the boardroom, where these billionaires are rewriting the rules of sports.
Final Thoughts
The world’s richest sports team owners in 2025 are more than just wealthy—they’re visionaries shaping the future of sports. From Ballmer’s high-tech arenas to Walton’s record-breaking purchases, their influence is undeniable. Whether you’re a fan dreaming of owning a team or just curious about the business behind the game, these titans offer a playbook for success. Stay tuned to Forbes for the latest updates on their empires, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll catch a glimpse of the next big move in sports.
