NFL Approves Minority Stake Sales in Giants, Patriots, 49ers at Record Valuations

The NFL has approved minority ownership stake sales in three teams: the New York Giants, New England Patriots, and San Francisco 49ers, marking record-breaking valuations in sports franchise sales. Julia Koch and her family purchased a 10% stake in the Giants at a valuation exceeding $10 billion, the highest ever for an NFL minority sale, while the Mara and Tisch families retain control of the team. The Patriots sold a combined 8% stake to billionaire Dean Metropoulos and private equity firm Sixth Street Partners, with the Kraft family maintaining majority ownership. The 49ers welcomed Pete Briger Jr. and the Briger family as minority investors, with Jed York and the York family retaining control. These investments highlight a growing trend of outside investors joining established family ownership groups in the NFL, bringing fresh capital and perspectives without altering existing leadership structures. The total valuations involved underscore the surging financial value and investor appeal of professional sports franchises.