The San Francisco 49ers, one of the National Football League's most storied franchises, are reportedly exploring the sale of a minority stake in the team. According to Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams of Sportico, this move could see the team valued at a record-breaking $8.5 billion.
🚨🏈 BREAKING: @49ers to sell nearly 6% stake at record sports team valuation. The owners of the San Francisco 49ers have reached an agreement to sell about 6% of the NFL franchise to a trio of Bay Area families at a valuation higher than $8.5 billion. pic.twitter.com/B1ttamxNml
— Sportico (@Sportico) May 15, 2025
This development positions the 49ers potentially among the world's most expensive sports franchises, which, as they noted, is "the highest valuation ever for a global sports team in a transaction."
While initial reports suggested a stake of nearly 6%, more recent information indicates the York family, who currently owns approximately 97% of the team with Jed York serving as CEO, may be considering selling up to 10%. Such a sale, at the mooted $8.5 billion valuation, would mean a 10% share could command a price of around $850 million.
This potential sale to a trio of Bay Area families is being considered for several reasons, including providing liquidity for family members and generating capital for future investments. These investments could be directed towards stadium enhancements or other strategic ventures.
Notably, reports suggest that funds from a potential sale could also be used to further the 49ers' interests in other sports, particularly soccer. The team's investment arm, 49ers Enterprises, already owns English soccer club Leeds United and has reportedly shown interest in Scottish club Rangers FC.
The move comes at a time when NFL franchise valuations are soaring, and the league has recently approved measures allowing private equity firms to invest in its teams. Several other NFL franchises, including the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, and Philadelphia Eagles, have either explored or completed similar minority stake sales. T
The highest sale ever for an NFL team was the Washington Commanders, purchased for $6.05 billion in July 2023. A $8.5 billion valuation for the 49ers would significantly surpass this.
Recent valuations from financial news outlets like CNBC and Forbes placed the 49ers' value at $7.4 billion and $6.8 billion (as of August 2024) respectively, making the $9 billion target an ambitious one. However, the value of an NFL team is ultimately determined by what a buyer is willing to pay, and the 49ers boast a strong history, a dedicated fanbase, and a modern home in Levi's Stadium.
The York family's ownership dates back to 1977 when Edward DeBartolo Sr. purchased the team for $13 million. The franchise has since won five Super Bowls and remains a prominent force in the league.
As deliberations are reportedly ongoing, potential buyers could include private equity firms, wealthy individuals, or family offices.
No final decision on a sale or the specific terms has been announced by the 49ers.