A Historic Deal in the Making: Miami Dolphins set to make NFL history off the field

Nothing captures the essence of South Florida quite like the iconic Miami Dolphins. From their bold aqua, orange, and white uniforms to their beloved mascot, the Dolphins are a symbol of everything that represents the Sunshine State.

The Miami Dolphins hold a special place in NFL history as the only team to complete a perfect season, going 17-0 in 1972. They have also claimed 13 AFC East division titles, five AFC championships, 25 playoff appearances, and two Super Bowl victories.

Financially, the Dolphins are thriving. Valued at $7.1 billion and generating $673 million in revenue, they rank as the eighth most profitable franchise in the NFL.

But this week, a game-changing development off the field could redefine the team’s value.

NFL Reshapes Ownership Rules

Last month, NFL owners voted to allow private equity firms to purchase up to a 10% stake in a team, provided they commit to a minimum six-year investment. Previously, private institutional ownership of NFL teams had been banned since the league’s founding in 1920.

Now, with this new rule in place, private firms can acquire a slice of their favorite NFL franchise—if the owner agrees.

The Dolphins May Lead the Private Equity Charge

The Miami Dolphins are an attractive investment, offering more than just team ownership. Stephen M. Ross, who bought the Dolphins for $1.1 billion in 2009, has seen the team’s value skyrocket nearly eightfold. According to sources familiar with the matter, Ross is in advanced talks to sell a minority stake.

Reportedly, Ares Management is poised to acquire a 10% stake—the maximum allowed under the new rules—while billionaire Joe Tsai, through his family office Blue Pool Capital, would purchase a 3% share.

This deal also includes a portion of Hard Rock Stadium, the Miami Grand Prix Formula 1 race rights, and about half of the Miami Open tennis tournament, valuing the entire package at around $8.1 billion.

Ares Management, a leading alternative investment firm, has already been pre-approved by the NFL, while Tsai, who owns the Brooklyn Nets (NBA) and New York Liberty (WNBA), is no stranger to sports ownership.

A Historic Deal in the Making

This isn’t the first time Ross has entertained offers for the Dolphins. Earlier this year, he turned down a $10 billion offer to buy the team and its related assets, preferring to keep them under family control.

If this new deal goes through, the Miami Dolphins will make NFL history as the first team with a private equity ownership stake.