Which is the richest sports franchise in the world at the moment, and how much is it worth?

The value of sports franchises has increased over the years because of the massive investments by wealthy billionaires and other revenue-generating opportunities. Today, the richest sports franchise in the world is valued at $8 billion. So, what is the most profitable sports franchise on earth? Get more details below.

Every team has a business model that enables it to generate revenue. Some known income sources are advertising, sponsorship, royalties, ticket sales, and endorsements. Other teams also have investment projects that add more to their coffers.

Richest sports franchises 2023

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NHL

While soccer is the most popular sport globally, it is surprising that none of its franchises makes it into the top 10 Forbes' most valuable sports teams. American football, basketball, and baseball dominate the list. Here is a breakdown of the most valuable sports franchises, including their worth, owners and the latest revenue generated.

10. Los Angeles Lakers

The LA Lakers is a top brand because of its success and association with some of the best basketball players in history. They are among the most successful sides in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Shaquille O'Neal are among the famous athletes to play for the Lakers.

• League: NBA
• Sport: Basketball
• Value: $5.5 billion
• Owners: Jerry Buss Family Trusts, Todd Boehly, Mark Walter
• Year purchased: 1979, 2021
• Cost: $20 million; $5 billion
• Revenue: $316 million

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NHL

9. Washington Commanders

Founded in 1932, the Washington Commanders has grown into a wealthy franchise. The team generates millions of dollars annually in the National Football League (NFL).

• League: NFL
• Sport: Football
• Value: $5.6 billion
• Owners: Daniel and Tanya Snyder
• Year purchased: 1999
• Cost: $750 million
• Revenue: $544 million

8. Golden State Warriors

Golden State Warriors' growth rate (147%) between 2016-2020 is arguably the highest among teams globally. Their recent championship success has also led to an increase in their value.

• League: NBA
• Sport: Basketball
• Value: $5.6 billion
• Owner: Joe Lacob, Peter Guber
• Year purchased: 2010
• Cost: $750 million
• Revenue: $258 million

7. Chicago Bears

In 1920, George Halas purchased Chicago Bears for just $100, not knowing it would grow to $5.8 billion in value. His daughter, Virginia, inherited the team after his death in the early 1980s. Virginia's son, George Halas McCaskey, is the Chairman of the Bears.

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Cricket

• League: NFL
• Sport: Football
• Value: $5.8 billion
• Owner: McCaskey family
• Year purchased: 1920
• Cost: $100
• Revenue: $520 million

6. New York Knicks

The New York-based franchise overtook LA Angeles as the most valuable NBA team. Despite struggling in the league, the Knicks have generated more revenues, which has seen their value skyrocket in the past decade.

• League: NBA
• Sport: Basketball
• Value: $5.8 billion
• Owner: Madison Square Garden Company
• Year purchased: 1997
• Cost: $300 million
• Revenue: $298 million

5. New York Giants

The Giants rank as the fifth richest sports franchise in America and globally. Although the team has poor results on the pitch, they continue to generate high income. One of their primary sources is the MetLife Stadium, where the Giants own half of the venue through a joint venture with the New York Jets.

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Rugby

• League: NFL
• Sport: Football
• Value: $6 billion
• Owner: John Mara, Steve Tisch
• Year purchased: 1925, 1991
• Cost: $500, $150 million
• Revenue: $584 million

4. New York Yankees

Many people will recognize the Yankees for their rich history and famous logo. They are one of the richest sports franchises in North America and the only MLB side on the list.

• League: MLB
• Sport: Baseball
• Value: $6 billion
• Owner: Steinbrenner Family
• Year purchased: 1973
• Cost: $8.8 million
• Revenue: $482 million

3. Los Angeles Rams

Los Angeles Rams had a whopping 20% increase in value from 2020 to 2021 and a 107% increase over the last five years. They are owned by an American billionaire, Stanley Kroenke, who also owns the Arsenal football club.

• League: NFL
• Sport: Football
• Value: $6.2 billion
• Owner: E. Stanley Kroenke
• Year purchased: 2010
• Cost: $750,000,000
• Revenue: $628 million

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NBA

2. New England Patriots

The Patriots are the second richest sports franchise in the NFL and globally. Their six Super Bowls titles testify to their greatness on the pitch.

• League: NFL
• Sport: Football
• Value: $6.4 billion
• Owner: Robert Kraft
• Year purchased: 1994
• Cost: $172 million
• Revenue: $651 million

What is the richest sports franchise in the world?

NFL side Dallas Cowboys tops the list in what is the most profitable sports franchise on earth. It has held the position of the most valuable team since 2017 after dethroning Real Madrid.

1. Dallas Cowboys

According to Forbes, the Cowboys are the first franchise to reach $8 billion in value. Part of its success is the partnership with a cryptocurrency platform, Blockchain.com. The team makes more money despite failing to win the Super Bowl in over 26 years.

• League: NFL
• Sport: Football
• Value: $8 billion
• Owner: Jerry Jones
• Year purchased: 1989
• Cost: $150 million
• Revenue: $1.087 million

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Other Sports

Which sports franchise is the most successful?

Scottish side Rangers is considered the most successful sports team globally. The team plays in the Scottish Premiership and has won 55 league titles. Other successful franchises include the New York Yankees, Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Juventus.

Who is the richest sports owner in the world?

Although Jerry Jones owns the most valuable team worldwide, that does not make him the wealthiest sports owner. However, Steve Ballmer of the Los Angeles Clippers tops the list with a net worth of $83 billion. Below is a breakdown of the top 10 billionaires who own sports clubs.

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Football

Most valuable sports leagues

Sports is one of the most profitable ventures in the entertainment industry. While teams make money through their sources, leagues benefit equally. The National Football League tops the list with $16 billion in revenue, followed by Major League Baseball with $10 billion.

• National Football League - $16 billion
• Major League Baseball - $10 billion
• National Basketball Association - $8 Billion
• Indian Premier League - $7 Billion
• English Premier League - $5.3 Billion
• National Hockey League - $4.8 Billion
• La Liga Santander - $4.5 Billion
• Bundesliga - $4.3 Billion
• Serie A - $2.3 Billion
• UEFA Champions League - $2 Billion

As observed, the richest sports franchise on earth plays in the most valuable league, the National Football League clubs. Although American football is not widespread globally, it has generated more revenue than other sports.

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NBA

Sportsbrief also listed famous athletes who became politicians after retiring. While many athletes decide to relax and enjoy the fruits of their hard work post their careers, others choose to join politics in their home countries.

George Weah, Manny Pacquiao, and Singh Rathore are retired professional athletes who switched to politics. Follow the above link to learn more.