Owning a sports team remains one of the clearest markers of global wealth, and the latest Forbes ranking of the richest sports team owners in 2026 shows a shift in profile.
Today’s leading figures among the richest sports team owners are not just sports investors; they are industrialists, financiers and tech figures who built fortunes elsewhere before entering the sector.
Bernard Arnault leads the list following Paris FC’s promotion to Ligue 1, which brought him into eligibility.
His emergence at the top displaces Steve Ballmer, while Rob Walton moves into second place, reflecting shifts in personal wealth and market performance.
The combined net worth of the 25 richest sports team owners rose to $903 billion, up from $607 billion in 2025.
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All those listed are worth at least $10 billion, underlining the scale of capital now required to join the ranks of the richest sports team owners.
Football remains the most represented sport, while the NFL and NBA continue to dominate in valuation.
The list also highlights increased cross-league ownership and the continued global expansion of sports investments.
Bernard Arnault tops the ranking with a net worth of $171 billion. He acquired a majority stake in Paris FC in 2024 through his family holding company, but only entered the list after the club’s promotion to Ligue 1 in 2025.
Paris FC remains outside the title race but stable in the league. Arnault has also expanded his presence in sports through LVMH partnerships, including a long-term deal with Formula 1.
Rob Walton ranks second with $146 billion. The Walmart heir acquired the Denver Broncos in 2022 and has overseen steady progress, including a strong regular-season performance.
He has also invested in baseball, acquiring a minority stake in the Arizona Diamondbacks. Operational control of the Broncos is handled by Greg Penner.
Steve Ballmer is third with $126 billion after a modest increase in wealth. His position was affected by fluctuations in Microsoft’s stock over the past year.
Off the court, Ballmer is linked to scrutiny over a fintech investment tied to an endorsement deal involving Kawhi Leonard. The NBA is investigating the matter, while the Clippers have denied wrongdoing.
Miriam Adelson ranks fourth with $37.5 billion. She controls the Dallas Mavericks alongside Patrick Dumont following the family’s takeover.
The franchise faced backlash after trading Luka Doncic but secured the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, adding Cooper Flagg as a key prospect.
Idan Ofer, worth $34.6 billion, owns FC Famalicão through Quantum Pacific Group. His wealth has expanded significantly through shipping.
The club is currently competing in Portugal’s top division and pushing for a higher league finish.
Robert Pera has a net worth of $31.7 billion, driven by his company Ubiquiti. His wealth grew sharply over the past year.
The Memphis Grizzlies are rebuilding after trading key players and are likely to miss the playoffs.
Henry Samueli, valued at $30.8 billion, owns the Anaheim Ducks. His wealth is tied to semiconductor firm Broadcom.
He has also invested in infrastructure, with plans to upgrade the team’s arena.
François Pinault, worth $29.5 billion, owns Stade Rennais FC. His fortune comes from the luxury group Kering.
The club has improved its league position and is currently competing near the top end of Ligue 1.
Daniel Gilbert has a net worth of $27.9 billion. He made his fortune through Rocket Companies.
The Cleveland Cavaliers remain competitive and are aiming for a stronger playoff performance.
David Tepper, worth $23.7 billion, owns teams in both the NFL and MLS. His investments reflect a multi-sport approach.
The Carolina Panthers returned to the playoffs but were eliminated early.
Steve Cohen, with $23 billion, owns the New York Mets. The team missed the playoffs despite high spending.
He has also secured approval for a major casino project near Citi Field.
Stanley Kroenke is worth $22.2 billion and owns several teams across different leagues. His portfolio includes Arsenal FC and the Los Angeles Rams.
His teams have recorded success in recent years, including major titles.
Jerry Jones, valued at $20.3 billion, owns the Dallas Cowboys. He remains one of the most influential figures in the NFL.
Despite the team’s high valuation, recent performances have been below expectations.
R. Budi Hartono and Michael Hartono have combined wealth exceeding $38 billion. They own Como 1907.
The club has risen through Italy’s divisions and now competes in Serie A.
Philip Anschutz, worth $19.4 billion, is a key figure in American sports ownership. He has investments in both the MLS and the NHL.
His teams have experienced mixed results in recent seasons.
Stephen Ross, with $17 billion, owns the Miami Dolphins and related assets. His wealth comes from real estate.
He has also been involved in stake sales linked to the franchise’s broader holdings.
Anders Holch Povlsen, valued at $16.9 billion, owns FC Midtjylland. His wealth is tied to fashion retail.
The club remains competitive in Denmark’s top division.
Peter Mallouk, worth $16.1 billion, recently acquired Sporting Kansas City. His wealth comes from wealth management.
He is also linked to minority ownership in baseball.
Shahid Khan, with $15 billion, owns teams in both the NFL and English football. His business background is in auto parts.
The Jaguars recently recorded one of their best seasons under his ownership.
Robert Kraft, worth $13.8 billion, is one of the most successful owners in NFL history.
The Patriots recently reached the Super Bowl but fell short.
Hasso Plattner, also valued at $13.8 billion, owns the San Jose Sharks. His wealth comes from software.
The team is working towards improved performance after recent struggles.
Joseph Tsai, worth $13.3 billion, owns teams in the NBA and WNBA. His wealth is tied to Alibaba.
He has invested in facilities and infrastructure to support his teams.
Tilman Fertitta, valued at $11.7 billion, owns the Houston Rockets. His wealth comes from hospitality and entertainment.
He has stepped back from business operations following a diplomatic appointment.
Dan Friedkin, with $11.4 billion, owns clubs in England and Italy. His wealth comes from automobile dealerships.
He acquired Everton in 2024, adding to his existing ownership of Roma.
Arthur Blank, worth $11.1 billion, owns teams in the NFL and MLS. He made his fortune through Home Depot.
He has recently made structural changes within the Falcons and continues to expand his sports portfolio.
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