The world of sports is not only full of emotions and rivalries, but also astronomical figures that reflect the economic power of the most successful franchises. By 2025, the most profitable sports teams are generating operating profits that defy the imagination and cement their position as true financial giants. This article explores the ranking of the 20 most profitable franchises in the world, the secrets behind their success and the trends shaping this lucrative sector.
Absolute dominance of the NFL
The Dallas Cowboys top the list as the most profitable sports team in the world. With estimated operating income at u$s564 million in 2023the team owned by Jerry Jones makes a significant difference compared to its closest competitor. Not only are the Cowboys the most valuable, with a valuation of US$10.1 billionbut also a model of business success thanks to its ability to generate local income close to the US$800 million. This figure includes ticket sales, merchandise and sponsorship, and far exceeds any other NFL franchise.
The Cowboys’ business model also includes full control of their stadium, AT&T Stadium, allowing them to maximize revenue from non-sporting events, such as concerts. This strategy is also replicated in other NFL teams, which dominate the ranking with nine franchises in the top 20.
The Los Angeles Ramswith operating income of u$s286 millionand the New England Patriotswith US$261 millioncomplete the podium. Both franchises also stand out for their ability to generate local revenue and take advantage of the NFL’s television rights agreements, which guarantee each team u$s323 million annually.
NBA Impact
Five teams of the NBA They also managed to position themselves among the most profitable in the world. The Los Angeles Lakers They lead the segment with operating income of u$s199 million. Owned by the Buss family and other investors, the Lakers have capitalized on their history, iconic brands and the Los Angeles market to remain a sporting and financial benchmark.
He Madison Square Garden Sportsowner of the New York Knicksalso has reasons to celebrate. With income of u$s182 millionthe Knicks continue to be a magnet for fans and sponsors, despite their inconsistency on the court.
Europe and the Premier League
At the international level, the English Premier League It stands out as the most represented league outside the United States. He Manchester United leads European teams with operating income of u$s187 million. The club’s global brand, along with lucrative sponsorship deals and television rights, place it as one of the most profitable in the world.
Other Premier League teams in the ranking include Tottenham Hotspurwith u$s161 millionand at Manchester Citywhich recorded u$s148 million in operating income. Unlike other European leagues, the Premier League has managed to maintain a more equitable management of television rights income, which benefits teams like these.
The NHL and its surprises
Three teams of the NHL They also appear in the top 20. Edmonton Oilers They occupy fourth place overall with u$s213 million in operating income, a surprise that reflects the power of ice hockey in specific markets in Canada. The Los Angeles Kings and the Montreal Canadiens They also stood out, with u$s143 million and u$s142 millionrespectively.
Global figures and trends
Together, the 20 most profitable franchises generated u$s3.9 billion in operating income during the most recent season. This represents an increase of 12% compared to the previous year, underscoring the growing importance of sports teams as financial assets.
One of the reasons for the sustained success of these franchises is cost control. Leagues like NFLthe NBA and the NHL They use salary caps to maintain financial competitiveness. This contrasts with the European model, where transfer fees and salaries can spiral out of control, affecting the profitability of clubs like Barcelona or PSG.
In the MLB (Major League Baseball), the situation is even more complex. Equipment like the New York Mets recorded operating losses of u$s292 million in 2023 due to luxury taxes and high wage costs, making them the least profitable team in the world.
The 20 most profitable teams in the world
- Dallas Cowboys (NFL) – US$564 M
- Los Angeles Rams (NFL) – US$286 M
- New England Patriots (NFL) – US$261 M
- Edmonton Oilers (NHL) – US$213 M
- Los Angeles Lakers (NBA) – US$199 M
- New York Giants (NFL) – US$190 M
- Manchester United (Premier League) – US$187 M
- New York Knicks (NBA) – US$182 M
- Houston Texans (NFL) – US$164 M
- Tottenham Hotspur (Premier League) – US$161 M
- Houston Rockets (NBA) – US$160 M
- Washington Commanders (NFL) – US$160 M
- Dallas Mavericks (NBA) – US$158 M
- Philadelphia Eagles (NFL) – US$158 M
- Manchester City (Premier League) – US$148 M
- Indianapolis Colts (NFL) – US$146 M
- San Francisco 49ers (NFL) – US$144 M
- Los Angeles Kings (NHL) – US$143 M
- Golden State Warriors (NBA) – US$142 M
- Montreal Canadiens (NHL) – US$142 M
Promising future
The future of sports franchises seems more promising than ever. With the increase in television rights, international expansion and the integration of technologies such as streaming, sports teams are well positioned to continue growing. In particular, the NBA could lead this new era thanks to its television deals and its focus on attracting institutional investors.
For fans, the financial success of these teams also ensures investments in talent, modern stadiums and increasingly sophisticated entertainment experiences. In the competitive world of sports, winning on the field is important, but winning on the books is what ensures long-term sustainability.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
