The most valuable sports teams in the world

The world’s 50 most valuable sports teams are worth a combined $256 billion in 2023, with the Dallas Cowboys retaining the top spot, followed by the New York Yankees and the Golden State Warriors. 

Forbes revealed this in its annual rankings of the world’s most valuable sports franchises. 

Forbes said the value of the top 50 teams rose 15% compared to a year ago. This was driven by the increased prices of franchises sold in the past year. 

For example, the NFL’s Washington Commanders were sold for $6.05 billion in July, and the NBA’s Phoenix Suns were purchased for $4 billion. 

American teams dominate the rankings, with only nine teams coming from outside the United States and NFL franchises taking up 30 places in the rankings. 

However, the fastest-growing sport, in terms of value, is football, with football clubs from around Europe growing 114% in the past five years, led by Paris Saint-Germain. 

Teams in the English Premier League also saw significant increases in value. Liverpool grew by 173% and Manchester City by 102%. 

Success plays a significant role in the value of sports franchises, with the fastest-growing football teams consistently finishing in the top three of their leagues and playing in the Champions League. 

Formula 1 is the fastest-growing sport in the world in terms of value, with an eye-watering growth rate of 232% over the last five years. 

The world’s premier motorsport only has two teams in the top 50, represented by Ferrari and Mercedes – worth $3.9 billion and $3.8 billion respectively. 

Compared to 2022, no team from cricket’s most lucrative league, the Indian Premier League, managed to crack the top 50. 

The Mumbai Indians are the most valuable cricket team in the world, worth $1.3 billion. 

Top 10 most valuable franchises

The table below lists the top 10 franchises, with their value and owners.