The World's Most Valuable Sports Empires of 2024

According to Forbes, in 2024, the 15 most valuable sports empires in the world will boast a combined enterprise value of $216 billion (or an average of $8.6 billion), marking a remarkable 24% increase from the previous year. The driving force behind this surge? The steadfast growth of team valuations.

Last November, the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System acquired a 5% stake in Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE), the parent company of the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs, the NBA's Toronto Raptors, and MLS's Toronto FC.

This strategic move included the purchase of a 20% stake in Kilmer Sports from Larry Tanenbaum, valuing the entire enterprise at $8.4 billion. An executive from an NFL and MLS team expressed enthusiasm, stating to Forbes, "I love this deal. They (MLSE) got a majority stake valuation for a minority stake."

The Most Valuable Sports Empire of 2024

Forbes listed Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment in 10th place. Value: $8.47 billion | One-Year Change: 32%

Key Holdings:

• Toronto Raptors
• Toronto Maple Leafs
• Toronto FC
• Toronto Argonauts
• Toronto Marlies

Key Figure:
Cynthia Devine (President and CEO)

As team valuations continue to rise, driven by strategic investments and shrewd business moves, the landscape of the sports industry is evolving. Cynthia Devine's leadership at the helm of MLSE reflects a commitment to sustained success, positioning the Toronto-based sports empire as a powerhouse in the global sporting landscape.

With a staggering 32% one-year change in value, MLSE stands as a testament to the lucrative nature of the sports business, where savvy deals and strong management can elevate an empire to unparalleled heights.