The combined wealth of football’s richest club owners now tops $925 billion. Newcastle United’s owner, the Public Investment Fund, sits at the top of this remarkable list of billionaire investors who have altered the map of the beautiful game.
Football clubs used to depend on ticket sales and merchandise revenue. Today’s ownership tells a completely different story. Sheik Mansour’s $22 billion investment has changed Manchester City’s fortunes. Jim Ratcliffe’s recent $1 billion stake in Manchester United shows how billionaires continue to pour massive amounts into their clubs.
Let me show you 2025’s top 10 richest football club owners and their impressive net worth. These powerful figures, ranging from state-owned wealth funds to self-made entrepreneurs, are writing football’s next financial chapter. Their investments continue to shape the sport’s future dramatically.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Richest Football Club Owners in 2025
Public Investment Fund (Newcastle United)
Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), leads our list of the wealthiest football club owners. PIF bought Newcastle United in October 2021. The Magpies now have incredible financial backing that reaches way beyond the reach and influence of match results.
Public Investment Fund net worth and global reach
The world’s fifth-largest sovereign wealth fund, PIF now controls assets worth INR 79339.56 billion (approximately $950 billion). The fund’s wealth keeps growing, with an increase of INR 13804.64 billion since December 2023. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman leads PIF, which wants to double its assets to over INR 90.29 trillion by 2025 and reach INR 227.83 trillion by 2030.
PIF’s investments spread worldwide, with 20% of its holdings in international markets. The fund owns major stakes in several blue-chip companies including:
- Technology giants: Disney, Tesla, Uber
- Industrial leaders: Boeing
- Entertainment & sports: LIV Golf, Newcastle United
- Infrastructure: Potential 49% stake in Newcastle Airport
The fund’s investment strategy has produced a 10-year annualized return of 6.9%, beating the sovereign wealth fund average of 5.7%.
Impact of PIF on Newcastle United’s transformation
Newcastle United struggled near the Premier League’s bottom before PIF bought an 80% stake, which has now grown to about 85%. The fund and its minority partners have spent over €450 million across six transfer windows. This investment brought talented players like Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimarães, and Sven Botman to the club.
Eddie Howe’s appointment as manager proved brilliant. He led Newcastle from relegation fears to Champions League qualification in his first complete season. The club also won its first major trophy in decades—the English Professional League Cup.
The investment goes beyond football. Newcastle’s home region, North East England, has the UK’s lowest life expectancy and child poverty rates 50% higher than the national average. PIF officials have promised to invest in the region, helping Newcastle become “an actor on the world stage again”.
PIF’s multi-club ownership strategy
PIF broadened its football portfolio in June 2023 by buying 75% ownership stakes in four Saudi Pro League clubs: Al-Ahli, Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Nassr. This approach brought global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar to Saudi football.
Each club claims to operate independently, but this ownership structure raises concerns. The Asian Football Confederation might face legal challenges after overlooking its regulations that prevent majority owners from controlling multiple clubs in the same competition.
Future ambitions for Newcastle and Saudi football
Newcastle’s future under PIF includes plans for a state-of-the-art training center by expanding Darsley Park facilities. The club serves as a key part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to broaden its economy beyond oil.
Saudi Arabia wants its Pro League to rank among the world’s top 10, planning to increase revenues from SAR450 million to over SAR1.8 billion by 2030. The kingdom has also bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, with plans for 11 new stadiums.
Sports should contribute up to 10% of Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2030, with PIF leading the transformation of both Newcastle United and Saudi football’s global position.
Mark Mateschitz (Red Bull Clubs)
Mark Mateschitz stands out as Europe’s richest millennial in football’s wealthy owner landscape. He controls an impressive portfolio of clubs through Red Bull’s innovative multi-club ownership model.
Mark Mateschitz inheritance and Red Bull empire
31-year-old Mark Mateschitz inherited a 49% stake in Red Bull GmbH after his father Dietrich Mateschitz passed away in October 2022. This inheritance made him incredibly wealthy. Forbes estimates his net worth at INR 3341.47 billion ($40 billion) in 2024, making him the world’s 31st richest person. Mark received his first dividend payment of INR 51893.98 million ($615 million) in late 2023 as a shareholder, not an employee.
Red Bull’s influence reaches way beyond the reach and influence of beverages. The company’s sponsorship payments grew over INR 84.38 billion ($1 billion) in 2022. That same year, they sold more than 11 billion cans worldwide and reached net revenue of INR 812.77 billion ($9.68 billion). Red Bull puts almost a quarter of its turnover into marketing initiatives, which includes its football clubs.
Red Bull’s football branding strategy
Red Bull created a groundbreaking content-led marketing approach centered on sports ownership. Their football journey began in 2005 when they bought Austria Salzburg and completely changed the club’s identity:
- Renamed to FC Red Bull Salzburg
- Changed traditional purple and white colors to red and white
- Replaced club badges with Red Bull logo
- Rebranded stadium as Red Bull Arena
This complete transformation matched Red Bull’s Formula One racing teams approach. Traditional supporters formed their own club called Austria Salzburg due to strong resistance. Yet the strategy created a consistent global brand identity across all Red Bull sports properties.
Success stories: RB Leipzig and Salzburg
RB Leipzig showcases Red Bull’s biggest football success. The club started in German football’s fifth tier in 2009 and earned four promotions in just eight years to reach the Bundesliga. Ralf Rangnick joined in 2012 and developed a unique playing philosophy focused on young talent.
FC Red Bull Salzburg has ruled Austrian football by winning eight league titles in 11 seasons. The club became famous for developing exceptional talent. Players like Sadio Mané, Erling Haaland, and Takumi Minamino thrived before moving to bigger clubs.
Both teams have made big profits through player transfers. Salzburg earned €218 million over five seasons and serves as a development hub for RB Leipzig. Leipzig generated €117 million in net transfer balance over five years.
Red Bull’s global football footprint
Red Bull built one of the first multi-club ownership structures that now spans multiple continents. Their current football portfolio has:
- RB Leipzig (Germany)
- FC Red Bull Salzburg (Austria)
- New York Red Bulls (USA)
- Red Bull Bragantino (Brazil)
- Omiya Ardija (Japan) – acquired in 2024
- Leeds United (England) – minority stake
- Paris FC (France) – pending acquisition
This worldwide network creates powerful synergies with coordinated player development pathways and consistent playing styles across clubs. Red Bull’s steadfast dedication to football showed when they appointed former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp as Global Head of Soccer in January 2025.
Red Bull’s multi-club model has become the blueprint for other ownership groups worldwide. Today, 134 multi-club ownership groups control 366 clubs globally.
Sheik Mansour (Manchester City)
Sheik Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s 2008 purchase of Manchester City revolutionized English football. His impact on the team stands out among the world’s richest football club owners.
Sheik Mansour’s net worth and oil wealth
Sheik Mansour ranks as one of the wealthiest football club owners globally with a personal fortune estimated at INR 2531.41 billion ($30 billion). His influence reaches beyond sports as a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family and UAE’s vice president and deputy prime minister.
The UAE’s oil and gas sector forms the backbone of Mansour’s wealth. He chairs the International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) that manages the emirates’ vast oil resources. His financial empire includes:
- Chairman of two UAE sovereign wealth funds (Emirates Investment Authority and Mubadala Investment Company)
- Board member of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
- Ownership of Abu Dhabi Media Investment Corporation
- Various investments in banking, energy, real estate, and technology
Manchester City’s rise under Mansour
Mansour has invested more than £1.45 billion into the club since buying Manchester City for £210 million in September 2008 through his Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG). This massive financial backing turned City from a mid-table team into one of football’s powerhouses.
The club’s success story under Mansour shows impressive results:
- First trophy: 2011 FA Cup, ending a 35-year silverware drought
- First Premier League title: 2012, secured with Sergio Agüero’s legendary last-minute goal
- Recent achievements: Seven Premier League titles total, plus the historic 2023 Champions League victory completing the treble
Mansour’s strategy created both financial stability and sporting excellence. City now reports consistent profits after posting football’s record £197 million loss in 2010-11, with record £500.5 million turnover in 2018.
City Football Group’s global expansion
City Football Group (CFG), established in 2013, stands as Mansour’s most innovative contribution to football ownership. This pioneering multi-club model now includes 13 clubs across five continents, marking a radical alteration in global football investment.
CFG’s network makes shared scouting, player development pathways, and resources possible across all clubs, which creates major operational benefits. The group’s total squad value exceeds €1.5 billion and attracts over 1 billion followers worldwide.
Youth development and infrastructure investments
Mansour kept his promise to build “a structure for the future, not just a team of all-stars”. The £200 million City Football Academy opened in 2014 as a state-of-the-art training complex with:
- 16 football pitches (indoor and outdoor)
- State-of-the-art medical and rehabilitation facilities
- Dedicated youth development spaces
- Educational facilities and accommodation blocks
This strong infrastructure has produced talents like Phil Foden and helped about 50,000 youth yearly through community programs. Mansour’s impact goes beyond winning trophies. He created a lasting model that combines commercial success, infrastructure growth, and global brand expansion.
Jim Ratcliffe (Manchester United)
Britain’s richest man Sir Jim Ratcliffe joined football’s most exclusive ownership club in 2023. He brought his sharp business sense to one of sport’s most legendary clubs.
Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS empire and net worth
Ratcliffe founded INEOS Group in 1998 and built it into a chemical industry giant that generates turnover of INR 3712.74 billion. His wealth stands at INR 2362.65 billion (£21.2 billion), placing him as the world’s 31st richest person. The INEOS empire now covers oil and gas, chemicals, and renewable energy sectors. Unlike others on this list who inherited wealth or manage sovereign funds, Ratcliffe made his fortune through industrial expertise.
Manchester United investment and controversies
Ratcliffe bought a 25% stake in Manchester United for INR 135.01 billion (£1.25 billion) on Christmas Eve 2023. He later increased his share to 28.94%. The Glazer family keeps majority ownership, but INEOS now runs football operations. His investment included INR 25314.14 million (£237 million) for better infrastructure. The money moved from his Isle of Man-based company Trawlers to INEOS.
Long-term vision for United’s revival
Ratcliffe named his plan “Project 150” to make Manchester United Premier League champions by 2028—the club’s 150th anniversary. He brought in CEO Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox, then hired Ruben Amorim as manager. Former United coach Rene Meulensteen doubted the plan’s success, saying simply: “They’re miles away”.
Fan reactions and cost-cutting measures
Ratcliffe’s budget cuts caused strong negative reactions:
- A flat £66 ticket price without discounts for children or pensioners
- About 450 staff lost their jobs in two rounds of cuts
- Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2 million yearly ambassador role ended
- Less money went to former players’ charitable groups
A Manchester United Supporters’ Trust survey showed 65% of fans disliked Ratcliffe’s approach. The survey revealed 95% thought ticket changes would push away younger fans. Angry protests broke out at Old Trafford, with fans chanting: “Just like the Glazers, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c***”.
Ratcliffe defended these tough decisions. He said United would have “run out of money by Christmas” without these changes. The club lost over £300 million in three years. This could have broken Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules.
David Tepper (Charlotte FC)
David Tepper, a hedge fund legend, brings his financial expertise to Major League Soccer. His path to football club ownership stands unique among the world’s wealthiest sports investors.
David Tepper’s hedge fund background
David Tepper’s personal fortune stands at approximately INR 1771.99 billion ($21 billion). He ranks among his generation’s most successful hedge fund managers. He founded Appaloosa Management in 1993 and specialized in distressed debt investments and bankruptcy situations. His exceptional investment strategies yielded remarkable returns. A INR 84.38 million original investment with Appaloosa would have grown to INR 15272.86 million over 20 years. His firm’s average annual return exceeded 25% since its creation.
Charlotte FC’s rapid MLS rise
Tepper launched Charlotte FC in 2022 after buying an MLS expansion team in December 2019 for INR 27423.65 million. The club’s commercial success came quickly. Charlotte FC now ranks 10th among 28 MLS teams with an estimated value of INR 52737.78 million. This is a big deal as it means that the value almost doubled from its original investment. The club’s inaugural season showed impressive results:
- Generated profits of INR 337.52 million on revenue of INR 5822.25 million
- Achieved one of MLS’s most successful first seasons in merchandise sales
- Finished second in league attendance, averaging 35,244 fans per match
The momentum stays strong in 2025, with 51,002 fans attending their home opener against Atlanta United.
Tepper’s sports investment portfolio
Tepper built his sports holdings strategically. He started by buying a 5% stake in the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2009. He then bought the NFL’s Carolina Panthers for INR 185.64 billion in 2018—setting an NFL record bid at that time. His combined sports empire, Tepper Sports & Entertainment, now has Charlotte FC, Carolina Panthers, Bank of America Stadium, and Crown Legacy FC (Charlotte’s MLS Next Pro team).
Future of American soccer under Tepper
Tepper sees Charlotte becoming an international soccer destination. He called Charlotte “an international soccer city” while pushing for the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup. His INR 67504.36 million stadium renovation project (2025-2030) will modernize Bank of America Stadium with new seating, updated video systems, and expanded concessions.
Tepper’s vision reaches beyond Charlotte FC’s success. The club secured four matches in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, showing his growing influence in American soccer’s development. Charlotte FC’s general manager Zoran Krneta points to the city’s “sheer passion for soccer” as their foundation to accelerate future growth.
Philip Anschutz (LA Galaxy)
Philip Anschutz, a media-shy billionaire, has become a key figure among the richest football club owners. His vision and financial backing have helped change American soccer since MLS began.
Anschutz’s entertainment empire and net worth
Philip Anschutz is the 45th richest person globally with a net worth of INR 1426.03 billion. His entertainment group AEG is so big it includes sports teams, venues, and entertainment properties worldwide. Besides LA Galaxy, he owns 50% of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings and used to have stakes in the Los Angeles Lakers. He also runs major venues like Crypto.com Arena and the O2 Arena. AEG ranks as the second-largest concert promoter after Live Nation. The company’s impressive portfolio has more than 25 music festivals, and Coachella leads the pack.
LA Galaxy’s legacy and star signings
LA Galaxy became MLS’s most successful team under Anschutz’s leadership with:
- Record six MLS Cup championships and four additional final appearances
- First MLS team to turn a profit (2003)
- Second most valuable MLS club at approximately INR 40502.62 million
Anschutz brought David Beckham to the Galaxy in 2007, which put MLS in the global spotlight. The club now makes INR 3712.74 million yearly, the highest in MLS. Recent big signings Joseph Paintsil and Gabriel Pec cost INR 767.86 million and INR 843.80 million.
Anschutz’s role in MLS development
Anschutz stands with Lamar Hunt as one of American soccer’s true pillars. MLS Commissioner Don Garber put it simply: “without Phil Anschutz, there’s no MLS today”. The league almost went bankrupt in 2000, but Anschutz stepped in and owned six different teams at once. Many people call him “the man who saved MLS”. His work earned him the National Soccer Hall of Fame’s Medal of Honor.
Stadiums and global brand building
Anschutz led the way for soccer-specific stadiums in America by building Dignity Health Sports Park. This stadium became the model for other soccer facilities across the country. U.S. Soccer now uses it as their national team training base. The stadium shows Anschutz’s commitment to building strong foundations for American soccer’s future.
Shahid Khan (Fulham FC)
Pakistani-American billionaire Shahid Khan stands out as a self-made success story among the richest football club owners. He built his fortune through automotive state-of-the-art solutions before venturing into sports ownership.
Shahid Khan’s automotive empire
Khan’s journey to becoming one of football’s wealthiest investors started at Flex-N-Gate, an automotive manufacturing company where he worked during his university years. He launched Bumper Works in 1978 with a modest INR 4.22 million loan. A major breakthrough came in 1980 when he bought Flex-N-Gate from his former employer and combined it with Bumper Works.
The company’s growth story is remarkable:
- Sales soared from INR 1434.47 million in 1980 to INR 750.14 billion by 2020
- Toyota made the company its sole bumper supplier for pickups by 1987 and all U.S. models by 1989
- The company now runs 69 manufacturing plants in 8 countries with 25,000+ employees
Fulham’s revival under Khan
Khan bought Fulham FC from Mohamed Al Fayed for an estimated £150-200 million on July 12, 2013. He said at the time: “I do not view myself so much as the owner of Fulham, but a custodian of the Club on behalf of its fans”.
His tenure saw mixed results as Fulham went through three relegations and three promotions under eight managers. Some key appointments brought success:
- Slaviša Jokanović (2015) led Fulham to Premier League promotion in 2018
- Khan met Marco Silva (2021) in Portugal and called him “inspiring”
Stadium upgrades and long-term goals
Khan’s vision aims to revolutionize Craven Cottage through the ambitious Riverside Stand development. The 2019 project stretches into the River Thames and will boost capacity from 25,700 to nearly 30,000.
The costs have exceeded £120 million, but Khan backed the financing through his holding company. The new stand will offer:
- Premium dining with Michelin-star restaurants
- A rooftop “Sky Deck” that features a swimming pool and London skyline views
- Year-round riverside facilities that serve the local community
Khan’s multi-sport ownership model
Khan built a diverse sports portfolio worth INR 405.03 billion. His investments include:
- Jacksonville Jaguars NFL team, which he acquired in 2011
- All Elite Wrestling, launched in 2019 with his son Tony
- Real estate holdings including hotels and property near EverBank Stadium
Khan’s personal fortune stands at INR 1037.88 billion. He stays committed to making Fulham a stable Premier League club and says: “We’re a small club but we’re an ambitious club”.
Stan Kroenke (Arsenal FC)
Stan Kroenke built his empire differently than most American billionaires. He made his fortune in real estate development before venturing into sports ownership. Since becoming Arsenal’s sole owner in 2018, fans remain divided about his leadership style.
Kroenke’s sports empire and net worth
Kroenke’s personal wealth stands at INR 1426.03 billion. Forbes recognizes his collection of teams as “the world’s most valuable privately owned sports empire”. His company, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE), runs from Denver and includes:
- Los Angeles Rams (NFL) – moved from St. Louis in 2016
- Denver Nuggets (NBA)
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL)
- Colorado Rapids (MLS)
- Arsenal FC (Premier League)
His real estate portfolio spans about 60 million square feet, along with 1.6 million acres of ranches throughout the United States and Canada.
Arsenal’s financial backing and transfers
Arsenal’s 2023/24 financial results show Kroenke’s strong financial support for transfers. The club spent £200 million to bring in Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber, and Kai Havertz. The club’s strategic report states that “this investment would not have been possible without the support and commitment of the club’s ownership”.
The club’s debt structure shows an interesting pattern. Most of Arsenal’s £259 million debt belongs to KSE rather than outside lenders, with better interest rates.
Fan criticism and recent improvements
Kroenke faced heavy criticism when Arsenal joined the European Super League in 2021. Fans took to the streets with creative protests. Their signs read “Kroenke Out! Gunnersaurus In!” and “We Wouldn’t Wish Kroenke On Spurs”. Many called his leadership “rudderless” and said the club was “floating aimlessly”.
Things look better now under Mikel Arteta’s management. The bond between players, fans, and club feels “unbreakable” with “so many feel-good factors”.
Kroenke’s long-term vision for Arsenal
KSE wants to grow the Emirates Stadium to fit 80,000 fans by 2028. This project needs about £500 million. The plan follows their success with SoFi Stadium, which helped the LA Rams become the world’s seventh most valuable sports team.
Josh Kroenke, Stan’s son and Arsenal co-chair, promises more investment: “We are going to keep adding to the group”.
Nasser Al-Khelaifi (Paris Saint-Germain)
Nasser Al-Khelaifi is one of football’s most powerful figures. His leadership at Paris Saint-Germain shows just one aspect of his vast influence in global sports and media.
Al-Khelaifi’s media empire and QSI
Al-Khelaifi leads beIN Media Group, a sports entertainment giant that operates in 43 countries worldwide. His portfolio extends beyond PSG with leadership roles at MIRAMAX film studio, Digiturk (Turkey’s largest sports platform), and Premier Padel. He serves as a board member of Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund and as a Minister of State of Qatar. His journey with PSG began in 2011 when he became QSI’s Chairman after they bought the club.
PSG’s transformation post-2011
PSG had only two Ligue 1 titles before QSI stepped in. The club went through a transformation that many compared to “the French Revolution of 1789”. PSG’s trophy cabinet now boasts seven league titles and six French Cups. The club’s financial growth tells an impressive story—revenue jumped from less than €100 million to nearly €700 million in just a decade.
Mega signings and global branding
PSG aimed to become “the coolest brand in the world of soccer”. The club’s strategy focused on signing star players. They broke transfer records by paying €222 million for Neymar in 2017 and about €180 million for Kylian Mbappé. The club’s expansion went beyond player signings:
- Retail stores now dot North America, Asia, and the Middle East
- Brand partnerships flourished, highlighted by the Jordan Brand deal
- Social media presence soared to 160+ million followers, with Instagram accounting for 59.1 million
Champions League success remains elusive
PSG’s dominance at home hasn’t carried over to Europe. The club reached its first Champions League final in 2020, but success remains elusive. Fan frustration peaked when ultra supporters called for Al-Khelaifi to step down after Real Madrid eliminated PSG in 2022. The gap between QSI’s dreams and PSG’s European results persists, even as the club strives to become “one of the most recognized and most admired sports brands around the world”.
Nassef Sawiris (Aston Villa)
Egyptian industrial magnate Nassef Sawiris completes our list of the richest football club owners. His business expertise helped change Aston Villa from Championship strugglers to Champions League contenders.
Sawiris’ construction and telecom wealth
Sawiris stands as Africa’s wealthiest individual with a net worth exceeding INR 759.42 billion. He built his fortune through smart investments in businesses of all sizes, with a focus on construction and chemicals. As one of Egypt’s leading business figures, he leads OCI, which he grew into one of the world’s largest fertilizer producers. OCI closed two major deals worth more than INR 295.33 billion each between December 2023 and March 2024. Beyond his industrial empire, Sawiris owns stakes in the New York Knicks and New York Rangers.
Aston Villa’s financial turnaround
Sawiris has dramatically changed Aston Villa’s fortunes. He and co-owner Wes Edens pumped INR 148.2 million in equity funding last season. Their total investment now exceeds INR 600 million. This financial muscle pushed Villa to fourth place in the Premier League—an impressive feat given their INR 252 million wage bill ranked sixth highest in England. The club’s success shows in its numbers. Revenue jumped 27% year-over-year and grew 145% in the last decade. Commercial income surged by INR 24.2 million within two years.
European ambitions and infrastructure
Though the North Stand redevelopment plans were put on hold in late 2023, Sawiris kept investing in infrastructure. The ownership poured INR 16.4 million into capital projects last season, reaching INR 69.4 million since buying the club. Their current regeneration project features:
- A 3,500-seater venue for year-round entertainment
- Expanded areas outside the stadium
- A connecting plaza between stadium and club shop
Partnership with Wes Edens
Through their joint venture V Sports, Sawiris and Edens control all club decisions. They welcomed Atairos as a minority partner in 2023, bringing in extra capital from the INR 548.47 billion investment company. Their announcement stated: “This exciting partnership enhances the club’s financial footing and strengthens its ability to compete in England and in Europe”. This strategic collaboration marks another step toward breaking the traditional “big six” and creating what many call a “great eight”.
Comparison Table
Owner/Group | Net Worth (2025) | Club(s) Owned | Main Source of Wealth | Notable Investments/Achievements | Year of Acquisition |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Public Investment Fund | $950 billion | Newcastle United, 4 Saudi Pro League clubs | Saudi Sovereign Wealth Fund | Champions League qualification, English League Cup victory | 2021 |
Mark Mateschitz | $40 billion | RB Leipzig, RB Salzburg, NY Red Bulls, Red Bull Bragantino | Red Bull inheritance | Multi-club ownership model, 11 billion Red Bull cans sold each year | 2005 (first club) |
Sheik Mansour | $30 billion | Manchester City + 12 CFG clubs | UAE oil wealth, investments | 7 Premier League titles, 2023 Champions League, CFG global network | 2008 |
Jim Ratcliffe | £21.2 billion | Manchester United (28.94%) | INEOS chemicals empire | Project 150 revival plan, £237m infrastructure commitment | 2023 |
David Tepper | $21 billion | Charlotte FC | Hedge fund (Appaloosa) | Second highest MLS attendance in first season | 2019 |
Philip Anschutz | NA | LA Galaxy | Entertainment, real estate | 6 MLS Cup championships, MLS financial rescue | NA |
Shahid Khan | $12.4 billion | Fulham FC | Automotive manufacturing | Riverside Stand development, three EPL promotions | 2013 |
Stan Kroenke | $17 billion | Arsenal FC | Real estate development | Emirates Stadium expansion plans, £200m transfer investment | 2018 (full ownership) |
Nasser Al-Khelaifi | NA | Paris Saint-Germain | beIN Media Group, QSI | 27 trophies since 2011, €700m yearly revenue | 2011 |
Nassef Sawiris | $9 billion | Aston Villa | Construction, chemicals | Fourth place EPL finish, £500m+ total investment | NA |
Conclusion
Billionaire football owners now control combined assets of $1.1 trillion, which has altered the map of competitive football. These owners’ wealth comes from various sources – Saudi Arabia’s sovereign fund to Red Bull’s beverage empire – each bringing a unique perspective to club development.
Trophy hunting no longer drives these billionaire owners. They focus on building their clubs through major infrastructure projects. Examples include Manchester City’s £200 million training complex, Newcastle’s planned facility improvements, and Arsenal’s stadium expansion. These investments show their steadfast dedication to long-term growth.
Modern football’s business structure now follows the multi-club ownership models that Red Bull and City Football Group created. Owners can build global talent pipelines, pool resources, and establish worldwide brand recognition through this approach.
The sport’s wealthiest owners have created entertainment empires that make use of information beyond traditional match-day revenue and local support. This shift becomes clear through PSG’s Jordan Brand partnership, Charlotte FC’s record-breaking attendance, and Aston Villa’s commercial growth.
These influential figures will revolutionize football’s future. They continue to invest in infrastructure, technology, and global expansion. Their impact reaches beyond match results and changes how clubs operate, compete, and engage with fans worldwide.
Read more:
- Top 10 Highest Paid Football Managers in the World in 2025
- List of Highest Paid Footballers in the World in 2025
FAQs
Who is currently the richest football club owner?
The Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Newcastle United, is currently the wealthiest football club owner with an estimated net worth of $950 billion as of 2025.
How has Manchester City changed under Sheik Mansour’s ownership?
Since Sheik Mansour’s acquisition in 2008, Manchester City has transformed from a mid-table club to a dominant force, winning seven Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League. The club has also seen significant infrastructure improvements and global expansion through the City Football Group.
What impact has Jim Ratcliffe had on Manchester United since his investment?
Jim Ratcliffe acquired a 28.94% stake in Manchester United in 2023, implementing a long-term revival plan called “Project 150”. He has made significant changes to the club’s management structure and pledged £237 million for infrastructure improvements, though some of his cost-cutting measures have faced fan backlash.
How successful has the Red Bull multi-club ownership model been in football?
Red Bull’s multi-club ownership model has been highly successful, with RB Leipzig rising from the fifth tier of German football to the Bundesliga in just eight years. Their clubs, including RB Salzburg, have developed a reputation for nurturing young talent and achieving consistent success across multiple leagues.
What are some of the challenges faced by these wealthy owners in achieving their football ambitions?
Despite their vast resources, many wealthy owners face challenges in achieving sustained success, particularly in European competitions. For example, Paris Saint-Germain, owned by Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has dominated domestically but struggled to win the Champions League. Additionally, owners often face scrutiny over financial fair play regulations and maintaining positive relationships with traditional fan bases.