Stan Kroenke has it all. The man is living every sports fan’s dream, possessing not just wealth but a remarkable portfolio filled with some of the most recognized sports franchises globally.
Kroenke is the owner and chairman of Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, a conglomerate that has amassed a staggering valuation of $21.17 billion, according to CNBC. This gives him the distinction of owning the world’s richest sports empire. He oversees franchises in the NFL, NBA, NHL, and the Premier League, with standout teams such as the Los Angeles Rams, Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, and Arsenal.
His portfolio is not just about figures on a balance sheet; it’s also an embarrassment of riches when it comes to championships. The period from February 2022 to June 2023 was unprecedented for Kroenke, during which time he celebrated the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory, followed by the Avalanche clinching the Stanley Cup, and finally, the Nuggets winning the NBA Finals.
The success extends beyond these major leagues, as Kroenke also boasts ownership of the Colorado Mammoth, a successful National Lacrosse League team, and the Colorado Rapids from MLS. In total, his sports franchises have secured two Super Bowl titles, two Stanley Cups, one NBA championship, one MLS Cup, two NLL titles, and seven English women’s football championships with Arsenal WFC. However, the one glaring omission from his trophy case remains a Premier League title with Arsenal, a goal that eludes him and his loyal fan base.
In the realm of sports ownership, Kroenke ranks above all others, with the second-richest franchise belonging to Jerry Jones and his family, who hold a valuation of $15.53 billion, mostly tied to the Dallas Cowboys.
The financial success of sports franchises correlates directly with winning. This is a truth that’s evident across the board. As Jeanie Buss recently demonstrated by selling the Los Angeles Lakers for a record-breaking $10 billion, winning leads to lucrative returns through ticket sales, merchandise, and media rights deals.
Kroenke is widely regarded as one of the most successful team owners, though his tenure hasn’t been without its controversies. Fans in St. Louis still harbor resentment over the Rams’ relocation, and some Arsenal supporters have voiced their dissatisfaction with his long-term strategies. Yet, many recognize his impact on the franchises he leads, underscoring the complexity of ownership in professional sports.
What’s noteworthy about the Kroenke approach is their patience in decision-making regarding coaches, general managers, and overall team construction. Stan’s son and vice chairman, Josh Kroenke, has emphasized the importance of patience. “Winning at the highest levels is not a linear process,” he told the Los Angeles Times. This understanding reflects their commitment to long-term success.
Employees within the organization attest to this, including Kevin Demoff, who recently transitioned from chief operating officer of the Rams to president of KSE’s North American teams and media. Demoff has noted that the Kroenkes prefer empowering their front offices rather than making drastic managerial changes when teams fall short.
In a world where many sports owners prioritize their financial returns over team success, the Kroenke family stands out as a group genuinely committed to winning. It’s this blend of strategic mindset and a palpable passion for sports that sets them apart in the crowded landscape of sports ownership.
