America’s richest sports team owner in 2026 is Steve Ballmer, former Microsoft CEO, with a net worth of $156 billion. He tops the Forbes list for the 12th consecutive year but is currently suspended for a year by the NBA due to a salary cap violation involving secret sponsorship deals with star player Kawhi Leonard. The Los Angeles Clippers, which Ballmer purchased in 2014 for $2 billion, are now worth an estimated $7.5 billion, boosted in part by their new Intuit Dome arena that opened two years ago.

The combined wealth of the top 20 American sports team owners has grown to $666 billion, a 10% increase from 2025. These owners control stakes in 37 major teams across various leagues, including the NFL, NBA, MLS, NHL, and international soccer leagues. Stan Kroenke, ranked seventh with a net worth of $27.6 billion, owns six teams including the Los Angeles Rams and Arsenal FC, and recently acquired a majority stake in the Los Angeles Angels. Kroenke’s sports holdings have appreciated dramatically from an initial $2.4 billion investment to a current sports empire valued at around $22 billion.

Other notable billionaire owners include Rob Walton of the Denver Broncos, worth $132 billion from Walmart wealth, who is planning to build a $4 billion retractable-roof stadium in Denver, and Miriam Adelson, owner of the Dallas Mavericks at $33.5 billion, although she saw a decline in net worth this year. Robert Pera of the Memphis Grizzlies and David Tepper, who owns the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC, are also among the top owners, showing significant wealth growth driven by their business investments and franchise values.

Several owners faced challenges or controversies in 2026. Ballmer’s suspension follows the Clippers’ $30 million fine and loss of draft picks amid the salary cap scandal. Mark Walter, owner of the Lakers and Dodgers, agreed to sell the Lakers amid federal inquiries. Meanwhile, the Forbes list saw three newcomers—Dan Friedkin, Jimmy Haslam, and Peter Mallouk—join the exclusive group, while some previous members like Antony Ressler and Micky Arison fell off due to net worth dips below the $12.2 billion cutoff. The list reflects the expanding financial power and complexity of sports ownership in America.