Stephen Ross Sells Minority Stake in Dolphins at Record Valuation

Stephen Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins, has finalized the sale of a 2.1 percent stake in the team and its associated businesses to Chilean billionaire Jean Eric Salata. This transaction values the Dolphins at over $12.5 billion, marking a significant milestone in NFL franchise valuations.

This sale follows Ross's earlier agreement to sell a one percent stake to Lin Bin, also at a valuation of $12.5 billion. Salata's acquisition includes not only a share of the Dolphins but also interests in Hard Rock Stadium, the F1 Hard Rock Miami Grand Prix, and the Miami Open tennis event.

The increasing valuations highlight the growing financial allure of NFL franchises, regardless of their on-field performance. The trend indicates that wealthy investors are willing to invest substantial sums for a minority stake in these teams, viewing them as valuable assets.