Team ownership costs soar as franchise values continue to rise
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 7:19 PM
Last updated Aug 17, 2026
Professional sports franchise values have escalated significantly, prompting an increased financial barrier for potential buyers. The value of teams in major American sports has surged, with the Los Angeles Lakers recently valued at $12.5 billion. Buyers now need a net worth of at least $6 billion for NFL ownership to cover purchase stakes and related expenses. Scarcity of franchises in tandem with rising demand has driven prices higher, making it necessary for prospective owners to maintain substantial liquidity while acquiring teams.
- •Lakers' ownership valued at $12.5 billion amid a liquidity crunch.
- •Dallas Cowboys and eight NFL teams valued over $10 billion.
- •Potential NFL owners need at least a $6 billion net worth.
- •Increasing demand for franchises correlates with rising values.
- •The Athletics have risen in value to $2 billion despite challenges.
- 7:19 PMYahoo Sports — How rich do you need to be to buy a professional sports team?
"As team values soar, being a regular old billionaire isn't enough anymore to own a professional sports franchise.
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