Ilitch Companies invests in PWHL for Detroit franchise expansion
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 8:37 PM
Last updated Jun 22, 2026
The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) has secured an investment from Ilitch Companies, owners of the Detroit Red Wings and Tigers. This marks the league's first external investment since its launch in 2024, coinciding with the announcement of a new Detroit expansion team for the 2026-27 season. Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies, expressed pride in supporting women's professional hockey and highlighted the importance of engaging new fans and fostering the future of the sport. Financial details remain undisclosed, though reports indicate the investment may exceed $100 million. Alongside Ilitch, Kilmer Sports Ventures joins as a strategic partner, further solidifying the league's growth.
- •Ilitch Companies will support a new Detroit PWHL team for the 2026-27 season.
- •Investment details reportedly exceed $100 million, though not officially confirmed.
- •Chris Ilitch emphasizes broadening the sport and connecting with new fans.
- •Kilmer Sports Ventures also joins as a strategic partner in the league.
- 8:37 PMYahoo Sports — PWHL lands investment from Ilitch Companies. What we know
- 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — Ilitch Companies buys equity stake in PWHL with Detroit joining league
"Ilitch Companies, led by Christopher Ilitch, is adding to its vast sports portfolio with an investment in the PWHL, which starts Year 3 this fall.
"Ilitch Companies, led by Chris Ilitch, owns the Detroit Red Wings, Tigers and a plethora of entertainment venues across the city of Detroit.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 22, 2026, 8:37 PMPWHL lands investment from Ilitch Companies. What we know
Ilitch Companies, led by Chris Ilitch, owns the Detroit Red Wings, Tigers and a plethora of entertainment venues across the city of Detroit.
- Yahoo SportsJun 22, 2026, 12:00 PMIlitch Companies buys equity stake in PWHL with Detroit joining league
Ilitch Companies, led by Christopher Ilitch, is adding to its vast sports portfolio with an investment in the PWHL, which starts Year 3 this fall.
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