**Sports Empire Building: Miami Dolphins on the Verge of Historic Deal**
In a groundbreaking move, the Miami Dolphins are in advanced talks to sell a minority stake to private equity firm Ares Management and billionaire Joe Tsai, marking a significant shift in the sports industry. The deal, valued at $8.1 billion, would include Hard Rock Stadium, the operating rights for the Miami Grand Prix F1 race, and a portion of the Miami Open.
This monumental transaction would be the first private equity investment in the NFL since the league relaxed its finance rules in August. Ares Management would acquire 10% of the team, while Tsai, owner of the Brooklyn Nets, would purchase an additional 3% stake.
The Miami Dolphins, valued at $7.1 billion, would become the eighth most valuable team in the league. The deal would also grant Ares Management and Tsai a significant stake in the team’s lucrative revenue streams, including events held at Hard Rock Stadium.
Stephen Ross, the current owner of the Miami Dolphins, has been instrumental in building the team’s revenue, which reached $673 million in 2023. Ross, who also owns and operates the stadium, has been able to capitalize on events like the Miami Grand Prix and Miami Open tennis tournament.
The NFL’s decision to allow private equity firms to invest up to 10% in teams has opened the door for new revenue opportunities. Ares Management, which manages $450 billion in assets, was one of the four groups approved for investment in NFL teams.
Meanwhile, Joe Tsai has been rapidly expanding his sports empire, with ownership stakes in the Brooklyn Nets, New York Liberty, San Diego Seals, Las Vegas Desert Dogs, and Los Angeles FC. This deal would further solidify his position as a major player in the sports industry.
As the sports landscape continues to evolve, this historic deal could pave the way for more private equity investments in professional teams, changing the face of the industry forever.
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