Who owns the Steelers? All the facts and details discussed

Who owns the Steelers? All the facts and details discussed

Grace Waruguru
November 26, 2023 at 5:10 AM

Who owns the Steelers? NFL franchise ownership is a lucrative business that has seen several families and corporations expand their financial portfolios. The Pittsburgh Steelers have enjoyed stability over the years, thanks to the management and ownership. Read on and find out the individuals behind this NFL team.

Steelers owners
Pittsburgh Steelers' Director of Business Development & Strategy, Daniel Rooney. Photo: Seb Daly (Modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

Who owns the Steelers football team? According to Forbes.com, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a market value of $4.625 billion, ranking 18th in the NFL after others like the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants. The owners purchased it in 1933 and have steered it to immense growth. Who owns the Steelers? Let us find out.

Who owns the Steelers?

The NFL outfit was founded in 1933 by Art Rooney, popularly known as ''The Chief.'' The American businessman and former sports personality bought the team at $2,500, then named it after Pittsburgh's dominant industry, steel. He died in 1988 but left a stable foundation for the franchise, which subsequent owners have maintained.

Who owns the Steelers now?

In the 1970s, Art Rooney's son, Dan Rooney, took over the team's ownership. Under his leadership, the club experienced improved performance. His impact was felt across the entire league as he advocated diversity and inclusivity. He is also remembered for the ''Rooney Rule,'' which states that teams should consider interviewing minority candidates for top coaching and managerial roles.

How much do the Rooneys own of the Steelers? Unfortunately, Dan Rooney passed away in 2017 but left behind a firm legacy and structure in the team. He served as the U.S. ambassador between 2009 to 2012, making him a voice in the team and beyond. Today, the team is managed by Rooney's children, who run various offices within the business. The media partners include KDKA-TV, Radio, and IHeart Media.

Steelers ownership percentage

Who owns the Steelers stadium
Rooney, team owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, looks on during a game against the Arizona Cardinals at the Super Bowl XLIII on February 1, 2009. Photo: Chris Graythen (Modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

Who currently owns the Steelers? The team's ownership has been handed down to generations in the Rooney family, who have maintained control over the club. There are several other stakeholders holding minority shares. These include:

  • Art Rooney II: Dan Rooney's son leads the team and owns a majority of the stake.
  • John Rooney, who passed away in November 2021. He owned 16% of the stake.

Who owns the Steelers stadium?

In 2022, the Steelers Stadium, known as Heinz Field, was renamed to Acrisure Stadium. The change followed a new stadium rights naming deal that went to Acrisure, a Michigan-based insurance firm. According to sportingnews.com, the Pittsburgh Steelers could not pay as much money as the insurance company to keep the stadium's naming rights. However, the two companies continued in partnership on different terms.

Who owns the Steelers and Giants?

who owns the Steelrs
Art Rooney II of the Pittsburgh Steelers before the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on October 23, 2022, in Miami Gardens, Florida. Photo: Eric Espada (Modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

Are the Steelers and the Giants owned by the same family? John Mara and Steve Tisch own the New York Giants franchise. John is the third generation to own the team, founded by his grandfather, Timothy James Mara. Steve Tisch is the chairman, co-owner, and executive vice chairperson. His family acquired a stake in 1991.

The Steelers owners have led the team to become one of the best in the NFL. Their success in the league, loyal fanbase and strong history have helped to keep the crew growing consistently. As they continue battling it out in the NFL, netizens will be keen to look out for new partnerships coming on board the team.

READ ALSO: Which NFL team has the biggest fan base?

Sports Brief published an article highlighting the NFL team with the biggest fan base. The football teams have attracted fans locally and abroad thanks to the sport's popularity. The fan base is determined by online following, match attendance, and merchandise sales. Which teams have the most fans?

Dallas Cowboys is the most valuable NFL franchise, boasting a fan base of approximately 8.5 million fans. The New England Patriots follow with a fan base of about 7 million fans. Check out the above article for the top 10 NFL teams with the most fans.

Authors
Grace Waruguru photo
Grace Waruguru
Grace has over 4 years of experience in article writing and digital media content creation for various local and global brands. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication (Public Relations) from Daystar University, Kenya.