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Forbes is renowned for its annual evaluation of sports franchises’ financial standings, providing insights into the economic landscape of global sports teams. Their 2023 report unveils the latest rankings of the most valuable sports teams, reflecting the intricate balance of brand value, media rights, sponsorships, and fan engagement.
This financial scoreboard not only serves as a barometer of a team’s monetary clout but also mirrors the cultural and emotional investments of fans worldwide. As we dive into the specifics of these celebrated franchises, we explore not just the numbers that define their worth but also the stories, the stadiums, and the supporters that underscore their prominence in the world of sports.
1. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys, hailing from the United States and playing American football, have secured the top spot with an impressive valuation of $9.20 billion. Known as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys boast a dedicated global fanbase and play their home games at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, a state-of-the-art venue opened in 2009. The team’s financial success is attributed to their consistent performance, lucrative sponsorship deals, and a significant presence in merchandising.
2. New York Yankees
America’s beloved baseball team, the New York Yankees, sits at a valuation of $7.10 billion. Their iconic home ground, Yankee Stadium, located in the Bronx, New York City, is a pilgrimage site for baseball fans. The Yankees have won 27 World Series championships, more than any other MLB team, contributing to their massive and loyal fanbase both domestically and internationally.
3 (Tied). Golden State Warriors
Basketball’s Golden State Warriors, valued at $7.00 billion, share third place. Playing out of the state-of-the-art Chase Center in San Francisco, the Warriors have cemented their place in basketball history with multiple NBA championships in recent years, led by star players like Stephen Curry. The team’s success in recent years has bolstered their worth and expanded their fanbase significantly.
3 (Tied). New England Patriots
Tied for third place with the Golden State Warriors are the New England Patriots, valued at $7.00 billion. They play their home games at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Patriots have a storied history with six Super Bowl titles, largely under the stewardship of coach Bill Belichick and former quarterback Tom Brady.
5. Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams, valued at $6.90 billion, are known for their vibrant fanbase and historic contribution to American football. The team returned to their roots in Los Angeles in 2016, and their home games are now played at the SoFi Stadium, a world-class venue in Inglewood, California. The Rams’ value surged following their recent Super Bowl win and the opening of their new high-tech stadium.
6. New York Giants
The New York Giants, with a value of $6.80 billion, are a cornerstone franchise of the NFL. Their home games are played at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, which they share with the New York Jets. With a fiercely loyal fan base stretching across the New York metropolitan area and beyond, the Giants boast a storied history with four Super Bowl titles to their name. Notable for their significant contributions to the sport, the Giants have been home to legendary figures like Lawrence Taylor and Eli Manning. The team’s resilience and knack for dramatic postseason runs have secured their place in the heart of their supporters.
7. Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears, holding a value of $6.30 billion, are one of the NFL’s oldest and most celebrated teams. The Bears play their home games at Soldier Field, the league’s oldest stadium, located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Known for their defensive prowess, epitomized by the iconic 1985 team’s Super Bowl win, the Bears have a loyal fan base that braves the Windy City’s elements to support their team. The franchise’s rich heritage includes pioneering the T-formation, the career of the legendary Walter Payton, and a strong community presence in Chicago.
8. Las Vegas Raiders
Valued at $6.20 billion, the Las Vegas Raiders are a franchise that has experienced a renaissance since relocating to the Entertainment Capital of the World. Playing out of the state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium, with its sleek, modern design, the Raiders have captivated a new legion of fans while retaining their long-standing Raider Nation following. The team’s history is rich with iconic figures like Al Davis and John Madden, and their commitment to “Just Win, Baby” continues to resonate throughout the league.
9 (Tied). New York Knicks
The New York Knicks, tied at a valuation of $6.10 billion, are one of the NBA’s marquee franchises. Their home court, Madison Square Garden, is often referred to as “The Mecca of Basketball” and is situated in the heart of Manhattan. Despite a championship drought, the Knicks have maintained a robust, passionate fan base. The team’s legacy is adorned with the greatness of players like Willis Reed and Patrick Ewing, and it remains an integral part of New York City’s vibrant sports culture.
9 (Tied). New York Jets
The New York Jets, also valued at $6.10 billion, share the MetLife Stadium with the Giants and have a dedicated following, known for their enthusiastic and sometimes boisterous support. The Jets’ historical 1969 Super Bowl victory under quarterback Joe Namath remains a highlight of their legacy. Despite recent struggles, the franchise’s commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing has kept hopes alive for their loyal fan base.
11. Real Madrid
Real Madrid, valued at $6.07 billion, is more than just a football club; it’s an institution with a global fan base and a reputation for excellence. The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, their prestigious home, is a site where countless memories have been forged, with 13 European Cup/UEFA Champions League titles won by the club. Real Madrid’s history is dotted with the careers of footballing legends, making them a pillar of the sport worldwide.
12. Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, are valued at $6.05 billion and have a rich history in the NFL, including three Super Bowl championships. The team plays at FedExField in Landover, Maryland, and has a devoted fan base that’s witnessed periods of great success and is eager for a return to prominence under their new moniker.
13 (Tied). Manchester United
Manchester United, tied with a value of $6.00 billion, is one of the most widely supported football clubs in the world. Playing at Old Trafford, which is known as “The Theatre of Dreams,” the Red Devils have a storied history with a record 20 English league titles and numerous other trophies. The club has been home to some of the greatest players ever to grace the field and is deeply ingrained in the fabric of English football.
13 (Tied). San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers, also valued at $6.00 billion, are synonymous with innovation and excellence within the NFL. Their home, Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, is renowned for its sustainable design and high-tech features. The 49ers’ history is highlighted by a dynasty era in the 1980s and 1990s, where they secured five Super Bowl titles with legends like Joe Montana and Jerry Rice.
15. Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers, with a valuation of $5.90 billion, are one of the most successful and celebrated franchises in NBA history. They play their home games at the Staples Center, shared with the Los Angeles Clippers and situated in the vibrant L.A. Live entertainment complex. The Lakers have won 17 NBA championships, tied for the most
16. Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), valued at $5.8 billion according to Forbes in 2023. Their home ground is the Lincoln Financial Field, affectionately known as “The Linc,” located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles boast a passionate fan base known for their intense loyalty and spirited enthusiasm, exemplified by their iconic cheer, “Fly Eagles Fly.” The Eagles have had their share of success over the years, including their memorable Super Bowl LII victory in 2018.
17. Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins, valued at $5.70 billion, are an esteemed NFL team with a unique history, boasting the only perfect season in the league. Their home games unfold at the Hard Rock Stadium, a venue that mirrors the vibrant culture of South Florida. With a loyal fanbase known for their spirited support, the Dolphins have a legacy highlighted by two Super Bowl wins and contributions to the community both on and off the field.
18. Barcelona
FC Barcelona, with a valuation of $5.508 billion, isn’t just a soccer club; it’s a symbol of Catalan identity and pride. Their stadium, Camp Nou, is one of the most famous soccer cathedrals globally, with a capacity that regularly sees over 90,000 fans echoing chants and cheers. Renowned for their “Mes que un club” philosophy, Barça has a trophy-laden history and a famed youth academy, La Masia, that continues to produce world-class talent.
19. Houston Texans
The Houston Texans, valued at $5.50 billion, are the NFL’s youngest franchise, making their debut in 2002. Playing at the NRG Stadium, they’ve quickly established a strong fanbase. While still chasing their first Super Bowl appearance, the Texans represent a new era of American football, committed to making their mark in the coming years.
20. Liverpool
Liverpool FC, with a value of $5.288 billion, reigns from the historic Anfield in Liverpool, England. Their storied past includes numerous domestic league titles and six European Cups. Known for their passionate supporters and the iconic “You’ll Never Walk Alone” anthem, Liverpool has a global fanbase and a reputation for exciting, attacking football.
21. Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos, valued at $5.10 billion, are renowned for their three Super Bowl victories. They play at the Empower Field at Mile High, where the altitude and their loyal ‘Orange Crush’ fanbase give them a home-field advantage as formidable as the Rocky Mountains that tower over Denver.
22. Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks, with a $5.00 billion valuation, have a fierce following known as the “12th Man,” due to the deafening support at Lumen Field. Their “Legion of Boom” defense carried them to a Super Bowl victory, solidifying their place among the NFL’s elite.
23. Manchester City
Valued at $4.99 billion, Manchester City has risen to become a powerhouse in English and European football. Playing at the Etihad Stadium, City’s investment in top talent and infrastructure has paid off with numerous Premier League titles and a robust, growing fanbase globally.
24. Bayern Munich
Germany’s FC Bayern Munich, valued at $4.80 billion, dominates the Bundesliga with a record number of league titles. The Allianz Arena, known for its illuminating facade, is a fortress where fans known as the “Red Wall” cheer on their team, renowned for their “Mia San Mia” (“We are who we are”) ethos.
25. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers, also valued at $4.80 billion, are a storied franchise in Major League Baseball with a rich history dating back to their Brooklyn days. The Dodgers call the iconic Dodger Stadium home, where fans enjoy the game in a venue with picturesque views of the Chavez Ravine and a team history of legendary players and World Series titles.
