Owning a sports team is no small feat, requiring both deep pockets and a forward-thinking vision. In powerhouse leagues like the NFL and NBA, team valuations have soared past the $3 billion mark, making ownership an exclusive club for the ultra-wealthy. Yet, the 2026 rankings reveal an intriguing trend: many of the richest team owners amassed their fortunes in industries like tech, retail, finance, and luxury goods before venturing into the sports arena.
This year's rankings have seen a significant shake-up. Bernard Arnault now claims the top spot after his club's promotion to Ligue 1, nudging former leader Steve Ballmer down the list. Meanwhile, Rob Walton has surged into second place, buoyed by a substantial increase in wealth.
The combined wealth of the top 25 owners has reached a staggering $903 billion, a notable leap from last year. Each of the top 10 now boasts over $20 billion in net worth. While soccer dominates the list, the NFL and NBA maintain a strong presence, illustrating the global and business-centric nature of modern sports ownership.
10. David Tepper
Net Worth: $23.7 billion
Source: Hedge funds
David Tepper oversees both the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC. Since purchasing the Panthers in 2018, Tepper has seen the team make the playoffs for the first time last season, finishing 8-9 and clinching the NFC South. Despite a late loss ending their run, there's hope that stability under coach Dave Canales could be on the horizon.
9. Daniel Gilbert
Net Worth: $27.9 billion
Source: Rocket Mortgage
As the owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Dan Gilbert has kept his wealth steady, despite Rocket Companies’ stock not reaching previous highs. The Cavaliers, however, have been on an upswing, finishing as a top seed last season, though a playoff loss still lingers. The team is eager for a comeback.
8. François Pinault
Net Worth: $29.5 billion
Source: Luxury goods
François Pinault, owner of Stade Rennais FC, has seen his wealth grow thanks to a mild recovery by his company, Kering. Rennes has improved on the field too, now sitting fifth in Ligue 1-a significant leap from last season.
7. Henry Samueli
Net Worth: $30.8 billion
Source: Semiconductors
Henry Samueli, owner of the Anaheim Ducks, has benefited from a surge in demand for AI chips, boosting Broadcom stock and his fortune. Purchased for $70 million in 2005, the Ducks are now valued at $1.4 billion, with a $1 billion arena upgrade in the works.
6. Robert Pera
Net Worth: $31.7 billion
Source: Wireless networking
Robert Pera, who owns the Memphis Grizzlies, has seen his wealth double this year, thanks to strong growth at Ubiquiti. The Grizzlies are in a rebuilding phase, having traded key players, and a playoff spot seems out of reach this season.
5. Idan Ofer
Net Worth: $34.6 billion
Source: Shipping
Idan Ofer controls FC Famalicão and holds a stake in Atlético Madrid. His wealth has surged recently, with his shipping company operating around 250 vessels. Famalicão is performing well, sitting in sixth place and eyeing a top-five finish.
4. Miriam Adelson
Net Worth: $37.5 billion
Source: Casinos
Miriam Adelson, along with Patrick Dumont, is the majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks. A blockbuster trade in 2025 involving Luka Doncic sparked backlash, but fortune smiled on the Mavericks when they snagged the No. 1 draft pick against 1.8% odds, bringing in Cooper Flagg as the new face of the franchise.
3. Steve Ballmer
Net Worth: $126 billion
Source: Microsoft
Steve Ballmer, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, saw a slight rise in wealth despite an uneven performance by Microsoft stock. Off-court issues have surfaced with an investigation into a deal linked to Kawhi Leonard, though the team denies any wrongdoing.
2. Rob Walton
Net Worth: $146 billion
Source: Walmart
Rob Walton, owner of the Denver Broncos, experienced a 33% jump in wealth, propelling him to second place. The Broncos have shown rapid improvement under his ownership, achieving the best AFC record last season, though an injury to Bo Nix impacted their playoff journey. Walton also holds a 10% stake in the Arizona Diamondbacks.
1. Bernard Arnault
Net Worth: $171 billion
Source: LVMH
Bernard Arnault, at the helm of Paris FC, takes the top spot this year following the club's promotion to Ligue 1. Historically overshadowed by PSG, Arnault aims to change that, with Red Bull and Jürgen Klopp driving their global football ambitions.
Paris FC sits mid-table, but the long-term vision is ambitious. Arnault is also expanding LVMH's footprint in sports, highlighted by a $1 billion Formula 1 deal.
Conclusion
The landscape of sports ownership is evolving rapidly, with many owners building wealth outside sports before investing in teams. While soccer leads the charge, the NFL and NBA remain formidable. Bernard Arnault's ascent underscores how even smaller clubs can wield significant global influence in the sports world.