12 Sports Teams That Are Worth More Than Entire Countries
It’s hard to believe, but some sports teams are worth more than entire countries. Thanks to massive sponsorship deals, billion-dollar TV contracts, and global fan bases, these franchises have skyrocketed in value. In fact, teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Golden State Warriors are worth more than the economies of nations like the Bahamas or Fiji. Here’s a look at the teams sitting at the top of the financial food chain.
Dallas Cowboys – $10.1 billion
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No team in sports makes more money than the Dallas Cowboys. Owner Jerry Jones turned “America’s Team” into a global empire, fueled by billion-dollar TV deals, huge sponsorships, and one of the biggest fan bases in the world. AT&T Stadium alone brings in millions every year.
Golden State Warriors – $8.8 billion
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Winning championships brings trophies and money–lots of it. The Warriors’ success in the NBA turned them into one of the most valuable franchises in the world. They rake in cash from massive TV deals, record-breaking merchandise sales, and strong Silicon Valley partnerships. Their home arena, Chase Center, is a high-tech money-making machine.
Los Angeles Rams – $7.6 billion
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Moving to Los Angeles was a game-changer for the Rams. Their value skyrocketed after relocating, thanks in large part to SoFi Stadium—a $5 billion sports and entertainment palace. Major sponsorship deals, Super Bowl success, and the massive LA market keep the Rams among the richest teams in sports.
New York Yankees – $7.55 billion
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Baseball’s most famous team prints money. The Yankees’ legendary history and global brand recognition bring in cash from every angle—TV contracts, sponsorships, ticket sales, and an endless stream of merchandise. Their stake in the YES Network alone is worth billions and makes them one of the wealthiest franchises on the planet.
New York Knicks – $7.5 billion
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The Knicks haven’t won a championship since 1973, but that hasn’t stopped them from being a financial giant. Playing in Madison Square Garden guarantees massive revenue, and their presence in one of the NBA’s most valuable TV markets keeps them near the top in franchise worth.
New England Patriots – $7.31 billion
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Two decades of dominance under Tom Brady and Bill Belichick turned the Patriots into a dynasty—both on the field and financially. Even after Brady’s departure, the team remains a money-making machine due to packed stadiums, lucrative sponsorships, and one of the strongest brands in the NFL.
New York Giants – $7.3 billion
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The Giants have history, loyal fans, and the advantage of being in the country’s largest sports market. Their TV contracts, sponsorships, and merchandise sales keep them among the richest teams, and their success over the years only adds to their financial strength.
Los Angeles Lakers – $7.1 billion
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The Lakers are a global brand. They have a history of legendary players, multiple championships, and a worldwide fan base that helped them generate billions from TV deals, sponsorships, and merchandise. Their home, Crypto.com Arena, is a prime venue for both sports and entertainment.
New York Jets – $6.9 billion
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The Jets haven’t won a Super Bowl since 1969, but they’re still one of the most valuable teams in sports. Their presence in the New York market, massive media deals, and dedicated fan base ensure they stay financially strong—even without consistent success on the field.
Philadelphia Eagles – $6.6 billion
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The Eagles thrive on passionate fans and smart business moves. Their stadium, Lincoln Financial Field, generates millions every season, and the team’s recent Super Bowl win boosted its brand value even more. Strong sponsorships and a loyal fan base keep them flying high financially.
Real Madrid – $6.6 billion
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As one of the biggest soccer clubs in the world, Real Madrid dominates both on and off the field. They generate billions through sponsorships, massive broadcast rights, and a fan base that spans the globe. Their stadium, Santiago Bernabéu, is a revenue generator that ensures Madrid remains a financial giant.
Manchester United – $6.55 billion
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No soccer club has a brand quite like Manchester United. With a worldwide following, huge TV contracts, and endless sponsorship deals, they bring in billions every year. Their stadium, Old Trafford, remains one of the most iconic venues in the sport.
Chicago Bears – $6.4 billion
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Few NFL teams have as much history as the Chicago Bears, and that tradition keeps them among the league’s most valuable franchises. Their loyal fan base, strong media contracts, and the possibility of a new stadium all contribute to their soaring worth.
Las Vegas Raiders – $6.2 billion
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The Raiders’ move to Las Vegas was a financial jackpot. Allegiant Stadium is a major entertainment hub, hosting games, concerts, and huge events that bring in millions. With a die-hard fan base and a prime location in one of the country’s fastest-growing sports markets, the Raiders’ value keeps climbing year after year.
San Francisco 49ers – $6 billion
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Winning championships is one thing—turning that success into billions is another. The 49ers have done both. Their strong brand, deep history, and connection to Silicon Valley money make them one of the NFL’s richest teams. Levi’s Stadium, a state-of-the-art venue, brings in massive revenue from fans and major events.