SANTA CLARA, Calif. – In a significant move poised to reshape the landscape of NFL ownership, the San Francisco 49ers are finalizing the sale of over 6% of their team’s ownership to three prominent Bay Area families. According to sources, this development follows months of interest from potential buyers, with negotiations reportedly occurring weekly. The York family, which currently holds 97% of the 49ers, is working to complete the transaction, valuing the team at over $8.5 billion – a record valuation for any sports franchise. The prospective buyers include the Kholsla family, who will acquire 3.1%; the Deeter family, securing 2.1%; and the Griffith family, taking ownership of 1%, as reported by The Athletic. This deal is expected to be formally approved by the NFL at the upcoming spring owners’ meetings in Minneapolis next week.

The 49ers have declined to comment on the specifics of the sales. Jed York, the team’s owner, previously indicated that his family was considering a sale of up to 10% of their stake, framing it as a strategic "family asset allocation decision" influenced by the evolving needs of family members. York emphasized a desire to find "the right people" who could contribute to the team’s growth, both on and off the field, suggesting a willingness to partner with individuals who could enhance the 49ers’ operations. This move comes as the NFL continues to evolve, with increasing interest in private investment within professional sports teams.

The prospective buyers bring significant venture capital expertise to the table – including Vinod Khosla, co-founder of Sun Microsystems and founder of Kholsa Ventures, Byron Deeter, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners, and William Griffith, partner at Iconiq Capital – underscores a deliberate effort to inject new perspectives and resources into the 49ers organization. The transaction’s success hinges on NFL approval, slated for discussion at the spring owners’ meetings. Simultaneously, the Los Angeles Chargers are also seeking approval to sell an 8% stake to a private investment firm, Arctos, a move that highlights the broader trend of franchise sales and investment within the league. This activity is creating a dynamic environment within the NFL, potentially impacting team valuations and strategic direction.

The York family's decision to explore a sale reflects a broader trend of strategic asset management within wealthy sports franchises, demonstrating a willingness to adapt to changing market conditions and explore opportunities for growth and diversification. The impending approval at the owners’ meetings will undoubtedly be closely watched, signaling a pivotal moment for the 49ers and the NFL as a whole. The involvement of established venture capital firms signals a commitment to innovation and strategic growth, aligning with the demands of a modern and competitive sports landscape. Ultimately, this transaction represents a significant step in the ongoing evolution of NFL ownership, driven by both strategic family considerations and the pursuit of enhanced operational capabilities.