Topline
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is interested in buying the Washington Commanders NFL franchise, according to multiple reports, citing a source close to him, after embattled owner Dan Snyder said Wednesday he is exploring a possible sale.
Jeff Bezos looks on from the sidelines before kickoff between the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles … [+]
Key Facts
It’s not clear at this point if Snyder, who owns 100% of the franchise, plans to sell the whole team or just a minority stake.
Bezos has been interested in purchasing an NFL team since at least 2019, according to CBS Sports, and already has investments in the D.C. area through real estate and his ownership of the Washington Post.
People was the first to report the news Thursday.
Forbes Valuation
Bezos would become by far the wealthiest NFL owner if he buys the team—Forbes estimates his net worth to be $113.4 billion, making him the fourth-richest person in the world.
Key Background
Snyder announced Wednesday he hired Bank of America to work on a potential sale, after coming under increasing pressure to sell the team following a series of scandals, including numerous reports of sexual misconduct involving himself and team executives, which has prompted a Congressional investigation. Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay said last month that NFL owners have privately discussed taking the unprecedented step of removing Snyder as owner, which would require a vote of support from 24 of the league’s 32 owners.
Big Number
$5.6 billion. That’s how much Forbes estimates the Commanders are worth, making them the sixth most-valuable NFL franchise. Snyder purchased the team, then called the Redskins, in 1999 for $750 million.
Further Reading
Jeff Bezos Is ‘Looking Into Buying’ Washington Commanders: Source (People)
Dan Snyder Hires Bank Of America To Sell Washington Commanders (Forbes)
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicholasreimann/2022/11/03/jeff-bezos-considering-bid-for-washington-commanders-possibly-with-jay-z/