The Miami Dolphins are one of the most iconic teams in professional football, known for their loyal fan base, historic moments, and unique culture tied to South Florida. Since its founding in 1966, the franchise has gone through different eras of leadership, ownership, and competitive success. Fans often wonder about the people behind the team’s growth and direction. Understanding who owns Miami Dolphins today provides a clearer picture of how the franchise operates, makes decisions, and continues to remain one of the NFL’s most valuable organizations.
Miami Dolphins Profile
The Miami Dolphins are one of the NFL’s most historic franchises, representing South Florida with a legacy of success, innovation, and cultural impact. Since their establishment in the mid-1960s, the Dolphins have grown from an AFL expansion team to a global brand.
Known for achieving the league’s only perfect season, the Dolphins have created a lasting identity tied to resilience and excellence. Their history is marked by visionary founders, championship triumphs, and transformative ownership decisions that continue to shape the franchise today.
Founders and Early Years
The Miami Dolphins were founded in 1965 when the AFL awarded an expansion franchise to attorney and businessman Joe Robbie and entertainer Danny Thomas.
Robbie was the driving force behind the creation of the team. He invested heavily, negotiated stadium deals, and managed football operations, establishing the foundation for Miami’s first professional football franchise.
Danny Thomas, a well-known actor and comedian, provided initial funding support and celebrity influence, helping bring attention to the team during its earliest years. Thomas later sold his share to Robbie, leaving Robbie as the principal owner and the figure most credited with building the Dolphins into a recognized NFL franchise.
The team played its first season in 1966 at the Orange Bowl under head coach George Wilson, beginning what would become a storied journey in professional football.
Major Milestones
- 1965: Franchise awarded to Joe Robbie and Danny Thomas, marking the birth of professional football in Miami.
- 1966: Dolphins play their first AFL season at the Orange Bowl under head coach George Wilson.
- 1970: Following the AFL-NFL merger, the Dolphins officially join the NFL as members of the AFC East.
- 1970: Don Shula is hired as head coach, beginning one of the most successful coaching tenures in NFL history.
- 1971: Dolphins make their first Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl VI.
- 1972: Dolphins complete the only perfect season in NFL history (17–0) and win Super Bowl VII.
- 1973: Dolphins win back-to-back championships by capturing Super Bowl VIII.
- 1982: Team wins the AFC Championship and plays in Super Bowl XVII.
- 1983: Quarterback Dan Marino is drafted, later becoming one of the greatest passers in NFL history.
- 1984: Marino leads the Dolphins to Super Bowl XIX after setting passing records.
- 1990: Passing of founder Joe Robbie leads to an ownership transfer within his family, sparking financial challenges.
- 1994: Wayne Huizenga, founder of Blockbuster Video, purchases the Dolphins and their stadium, modernizing team operations.
- 1996: Team moves into the newly renamed Pro Player Stadium, later evolving into Hard Rock Stadium.
- 2000: Dan Marino retires after 17 seasons, leaving a lasting legacy as the franchise’s most celebrated player.
- 2008–2009: Stephen M. Ross purchases controlling interest in the team from Wayne Huizenga, becoming majority owner.
- 2013: The Dolphins unveil a redesigned logo and uniforms to modernize the franchise’s image.
- 2017: Hard Rock Stadium undergoes major renovations, transforming into a world-class multipurpose venue.
- 2020: The Dolphins become active in social justice initiatives, reflecting Ross’s emphasis on community impact.
- 2023: Dolphins score 70 points against the Denver Broncos, the most in an NFL game since 1966.
- 2024: Ross sells a 13 percent minority stake in the Dolphins, with the deal valuing the team at over $8 billion.
- 2025: Dolphins remain among the top ten most valuable NFL franchises, with a global brand presence and a growing fan base across international markets.
Who Owns Miami Dolphins: Major Shareholders
Ownership of the Miami Dolphins has evolved over the decades, but today the franchise is controlled by billionaire developer Stephen M. Ross, who holds the vast majority of the team.
Alongside him, a group of celebrity and minority investors holds small stakes that contribute to the Dolphins’ brand visibility rather than football operations.
In 2024, Ross completed a landmark deal selling a minority portion of the team to private equity investors, marking the first such arrangement approved by the NFL. This created a new ownership structure that blends traditional majority control with modern financial backing, ensuring both stability and long-term growth.
Below is a list of the largest shareholders of the Miami Dolphins as of September 2025:
| Shareholder / Group | Ownership Stake | Role & Control | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephen M. Ross | ~82% | Majority owner, full control | Billionaire real estate developer, owner since 2009, oversees all operations, stadium projects, and major franchise decisions. |
| Ares Management | 10% | Private equity investor, no operational control | First institutional investor approved by NFL to own part of a franchise; provides financial backing and growth capital. |
| Other Private Equity Investors | ~3% | Passive minority investors | Small group of institutional investors holding combined stake; financial partners only, no decision-making authority. |
| Venus Williams | <1% (minority) | Celebrity minority owner | Tennis legend, Miami native, adds cultural and brand value to the franchise. |
| Serena Williams | <1% (minority) | Celebrity minority owner | Global tennis superstar, involved as brand ambassador, part of Ross’s effort to diversify ownership. |
| Gloria Estefan | <1% (minority) | Celebrity minority owner | Internationally known singer and Miami icon, enhances cultural ties to South Florida. |
| Marc Anthony | <1% (minority) | Celebrity minority owner | Latin music star, adds to Hispanic fan base engagement and community presence. |
| Fergie (Stacy Ferguson) | <1% (minority) | Celebrity minority owner | Singer and entertainer, contributes to team’s brand visibility and marketing reach. |
Stephen M. Ross – Majority Owner
Stephen Ross is the principal and controlling owner of the Miami Dolphins. He acquired majority control in 2009 and today holds around 82% of the franchise. As chairman of Related Companies, Ross has used his vast real estate fortune to transform both the team and Hard Rock Stadium. His leadership brought in record investments, global partnerships, and increased franchise value. Ross remains the final decision-maker in all football and business matters, making him the most influential figure in the Dolphins’ direction.
Ares Management – Private Equity Investor
In 2024, the Dolphins became the first NFL franchise to approve an institutional investor when Ares Management purchased a 10% stake. Ares does not influence day-to-day operations or football decisions but plays an important financial role. Their investment strengthens the Dolphins’ balance sheet, provides stability for future projects, and showcases how private equity can enter the NFL market while preserving majority control with Ross.
Other Private Equity Investors
Alongside Ares, smaller private equity firms and institutional investors acquired approximately 3% of the Dolphins in 2024. These minority shareholders are purely financial partners, contributing additional capital while holding no operational power. Their presence highlights the team’s high valuation and appeal to large-scale investors looking for long-term growth in sports franchises.
Venus Williams – Minority Owner
Venus Williams, the seven-time Grand Slam champion and Miami native, holds a minority stake in the Dolphins. Her ownership role is symbolic rather than operational, serving to represent the city’s culture and diversity. She often participates in team events and is recognized as one of the prominent celebrity partners helping promote the Dolphins brand worldwide.
Serena Williams – Minority Owner
Serena Williams, one of the greatest athletes in sports history, is also a minority shareholder in the Dolphins. Along with her sister Venus, she joined the ownership group to support South Florida’s only NFL team. Her global reach and iconic status add marketing value and reinforce the Dolphins’ cultural influence.
Gloria Estefan – Minority Owner
Gloria Estefan, the world-renowned Cuban-American singer and Miami icon, became a minority owner in 2009. Her connection to South Florida’s Hispanic community strengthens the Dolphins’ ties to one of their largest fan bases. While her stake is small, Estefan’s role as a cultural ambassador brings visibility to the team both locally and internationally.
Marc Anthony – Minority Owner
Marc Anthony, the Grammy-winning Latin music star, also purchased a minority stake in the Dolphins. His ownership adds to the team’s appeal within the Hispanic market and the South Florida community. While not involved in team operations, Anthony’s presence as an owner highlights Ross’s strategy of bringing in influential figures to expand the franchise’s global reach.
Fergie (Stacy Ferguson) – Minority Owner
Fergie, the singer and entertainer best known as a member of the Black Eyed Peas, joined the Dolphins’ ownership group in 2009. Her role is largely symbolic, designed to boost the Dolphins’ brand recognition and connect with a younger fan base. Like other celebrity owners, Fergie holds a very small equity share and no operational influence, but she adds entertainment industry star power to the ownership group.
Miami Dolphins Ownership History
The ownership of the Miami Dolphins has played a central role in shaping the franchise’s direction and identity. From its early days under visionary founder Joe Robbie to its current leadership under Stephen Ross, each ownership era has brought changes in management style, financial stability, and long-term vision. Understanding this history provides insight into how the Dolphins evolved into one of the NFL’s most valuable teams.
| Owner / Ownership Group | Years of Ownership | Ownership Stake / Role | Key Contributions & Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Robbie & Danny Thomas | 1965 – late 1960s | Founders, AFL expansion rights | Managed team after Joe Robbie’s passing; financial struggles and family disputes led to the sale. |
| Joe Robbie (sole owner) | Late 1960s – 1990 | Principal owner | Oversaw perfect 1972 season, two Super Bowl wins, and construction of Joe Robbie Stadium in 1987. |
| Robbie Family | 1990 – 1994 | Inherited ownership | Blockbuster Video founder; modernized team operations, acquired full stadium control, raised the franchise’s commercial profile. |
| Wayne Huizenga | 1994 – 2008 | 100% owner | First institutional investors approved by the NFL; passive role providing financial strength while Ross retains control. |
| Stephen M. Ross | 2008 – Present | Majority owner (currently ~82%) | Purchased majority stake from Huizenga; invested over $500M in Hard Rock Stadium; brought in celebrity minority owners and sold 13% stake to private equity in 2024. |
| Ares Management & Private Equity Partners | 2024 – Present | 13% combined stake (10% Ares, ~3% others) | First institutional investors approved by NFL; passive role providing financial strength while Ross retains control. |
Joe Robbie and Danny Thomas Era (1965–1987)
The Dolphins were awarded as an AFL expansion franchise in 1965 to attorney Joe Robbie and entertainer Danny Thomas. Robbie served as the driving force, handling operations, financing, and team-building. Thomas was more of a silent partner who later sold his stake to Robbie, leaving him as the sole owner.
Under Robbie, the Dolphins became the only team to complete a perfect season in 1972 and won back-to-back Super Bowls in the early 1970s. He also oversaw the construction of Joe Robbie Stadium, which opened in 1987 as the team’s new home.
Transition after Joe Robbie’s Passing (1990–1994)
When Joe Robbie passed away in 1990, ownership of the Dolphins transitioned to his family. However, disputes and financial pressures weakened stability. The Robbie family eventually decided to sell the team, leading to the next major ownership change.
Wayne Huizenga Era (1994–2008)
Wayne Huizenga, founder of Blockbuster Video and a successful entrepreneur, purchased the Dolphins in 1994. His acquisition also included the stadium and training facilities, giving him complete control over the team’s infrastructure. Huizenga focused on modernizing operations and strengthening the business side of the franchise.
While the team remained competitive, it did not return to Super Bowl glory during his tenure. Still, his leadership elevated the Dolphins’ commercial profile and prepared the team for the next transition.
Stephen Ross Era (2008–Present)
In 2008, billionaire developer Stephen M. Ross bought a 50% stake in the Dolphins from Huizenga, followed by the remaining 45% in 2009, giving him majority control. Ross invested heavily in Hard Rock Stadium, transforming it into a world-class venue for football, concerts, Formula 1 racing, and international soccer.
He also introduced minority celebrity owners, including Venus and Serena Williams, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, and Fergie, to strengthen the team’s cultural footprint.
In 2024, Ross sold 13% of the franchise to institutional investors led by Ares Management, a groundbreaking move that valued the team at over $8 billion. Despite this partial sale, Ross continues to control the Dolphins with the largest stake and remains the ultimate decision-maker as of 2025.
Stephen Ross Net Worth
Stephen M. Ross, the principal owner of the Miami Dolphins, has built an extraordinary fortune through real estate, sports ownership, and diversified investments. As of September 2025, his net worth is estimated at $17 billion, making him one of the wealthiest team owners in the NFL and a major figure in the global real estate industry.
Real Estate Empire
Ross is the founder and chairman of Related Companies, the real estate development powerhouse he established in 1972. Over the decades, Related has grown into one of the largest privately held real estate firms in the world, with assets worth more than $60 billion.
Its most iconic project is Hudson Yards in New York City, a multi-billion-dollar development that has reshaped the Manhattan skyline with luxury residential towers, office spaces, shopping complexes, and cultural venues. Related also controls high-profile properties in Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and international markets. A significant portion of Ross’s wealth is tied directly to these large-scale developments.
Sports Ownership and Investments
Ross first invested in the Miami Dolphins in 2008 by purchasing a 50% stake and became the majority owner in 2009. His purchase valued the team at just over $1 billion at the time, but under his leadership, the Dolphins’ franchise value has skyrocketed to more than $8 billion in 2025.
Ross also owns Hard Rock Stadium, which has been transformed into a multi-use sports and entertainment complex. It now hosts concerts, Super Bowls, college football, international soccer matches, the Miami Open tennis tournament, and the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, creating new and diverse revenue streams.
These investments have not only increased his net worth but also cemented Miami’s reputation as a global sports hub.
Philanthropy and Education
Ross is known for his extensive philanthropic commitments. He has donated more than $650 million to the University of Michigan, where he studied accounting and law, making him the largest donor in the school’s history. His philanthropy extends to programs focused on urban revitalization, affordable housing, racial equality, and entrepreneurship.
In 2013, he signed The Giving Pledge, committing to donate the majority of his wealth to charitable causes during his lifetime. These efforts highlight his role not just as a businessman but also as a social influencer working to shape education and equity in the U.S.
Net Worth Fluctuations and Stability
Stephen Ross’s wealth has grown steadily, but it is still influenced by broader economic forces. Since much of his $17 billion fortune is tied to real estate assets, it rises and falls with property values, interest rates, and global market conditions. For example, fluctuations in the demand for urban office space during and after the COVID-19 pandemic briefly impacted valuations, though projects like Hudson Yards continue to anchor his wealth.
What keeps Ross’s fortune stable is his ownership of the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, which are appreciating assets largely immune to short-term economic volatility. The NFL’s rising broadcast rights deals and the growing popularity of live entertainment events ensure that Ross maintains both consistent cash flow and long-term appreciation of his holdings.
Standing Among NFL Owners
With his net worth at $17 billion, Ross is among the top five richest owners in the NFL, rivaling figures like Jerry Jones of the Dallas Cowboys and Stan Kroenke of the Los Angeles Rams. This immense fortune gives him substantial financial leverage to invest not only in his team but also in Miami’s broader sports and entertainment ecosystem.
His wealth also ensures that the Dolphins remain competitive in facilities, fan experience, and long-term organizational stability.
Miami Dolphins Net Worth
The Miami Dolphins are among the most valuable teams in the National Football League. As of September 2025, the franchise is valued at $7.5 billion, ranking it firmly within the league’s most valuable organizations. This valuation reflects the strength of the Dolphins’ brand, their diversified revenue streams, and the business empire developed around Hard Rock Stadium.
The Dolphins’ valuation has surged over the past decade. When Stephen Ross became the majority owner in 2009, the team was worth just over $1 billion.
Today, at $7.5 billion, the Dolphins have grown more than sevenfold in value. This rise has been fueled by the NFL’s booming financial ecosystem, increasing sponsorships, and Miami’s position as a global sports destination.
| Year | Estimated Net Worth (Franchise Value) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $1.9 billion | Growth driven by NFL broadcasting deals and early Hard Rock Stadium renovations. |
| 2016 | $2.1 billion | Increased revenue from completed stadium upgrades and new sponsorships. |
| 2017 | $2.4 billion | NFL-wide surge in valuations due to booming TV rights; Dolphins continue steady climb. |
| 2018 | $2.6 billion | Hosting high-profile events at Hard Rock Stadium added revenue diversification. |
| 2019 | $2.9 billion | Franchise benefited from NFL’s 10-year, $110 billion broadcasting deal outlook. |
| 2020 | $3.1 billion | Despite COVID-19 impacts on attendance, media revenue kept values growing. |
| 2021 | $3.5 billion | Strong recovery year with stadium back at full capacity and new sponsorship growth. |
| 2022 | $4.6 billion | Big valuation jump fueled by rising NFL team sale prices (e.g., Broncos at $4.65B). |
| 2023 | $6.3 billion | NFL’s expanded streaming deals boosted valuations; Miami’s F1 Grand Prix added new income. |
| 2024 | $7.1 billion | Continued international growth and Miami’s status as global sports hub pushed valuation higher. |
| 2025 | $7.5 billion | Current valuation as of September 2025; Dolphins rank among top 10 NFL franchises. |
Revenue Streams
The Dolphins’ net worth is supported by multiple income sources. Beyond game-day ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorships, Hard Rock Stadium has become a multi-sport and entertainment hub. The venue hosts Super Bowls, international soccer matches, concerts, the Miami Open tennis tournament, and the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, generating millions annually. These diverse streams make the Dolphins more than a football team—they are a year-round business enterprise.
NFL Media and Broadcasting Impact
One of the biggest drivers of the Dolphins’ valuation is the NFL’s media rights deals. The league distributes billions of dollars in broadcasting revenue across all 32 franchises, ensuring a steady and growing income. With new streaming partnerships and global distribution, the Dolphins’ brand reaches beyond U.S. borders. This media income provides long-term financial stability regardless of team performance on the field.
Market Size and Location Advantage
Miami’s international reputation gives the Dolphins a distinct edge. The city’s diverse population, strong tourism industry, and global connections enhance the team’s reach and appeal. Hosting international events in Miami elevates the Dolphins’ visibility worldwide and helps fuel both brand value and franchise valuation.
Brand Strength and Fan Base
The Dolphins enjoy a rich history, highlighted by their perfect season in 1972, the only one in NFL history. This legacy, combined with a loyal fan base in South Florida and a strong national following, keeps the team’s brand powerful. Merchandise sales, fan engagement, and cultural recognition all contribute to the team’s high valuation.
Long-Term Outlook
Looking ahead, the Dolphins are well-positioned for continued growth. With media revenues rising, Hard Rock Stadium’s multipurpose events expanding, and Miami’s influence as a global sports capital growing, the franchise’s value is expected to climb further. Analysts project the Dolphins could surpass $10 billion in valuation by the early 2030s, cementing their place among the most valuable sports franchises worldwide.
Comparison with Other NFL Teams
The Dolphins’ valuation places them in the top 10 NFL franchises by net worth, reflecting both their historical importance and modern business success.
While teams like the Cowboys, Patriots, and Rams hold higher valuations, the Dolphins’ diverse revenue model, international presence, and strong ownership ensure continued upward momentum. If current growth trends continue, the Dolphins could close the gap with the Patriots and Rams within the next decade.
Who Controls the Miami Dolphins?
The Miami Dolphins operate under a structured ownership and management system. While Stephen M. Ross is the principal owner, day-to-day control and long-term strategy are influenced by executives, minority owners, and football operations leadership. This balanced structure ensures financial stability and competitive focus.
Majority Owner: Stephen Ross
Stephen Ross holds majority ownership of the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium. As the ultimate decision-maker, Ross has final authority over major financial moves, franchise direction, and stadium development projects. He is deeply involved in expanding the Dolphins’ brand globally and positioning the franchise as a sports and entertainment powerhouse.
Minority Owners and Stakeholders
While Ross is the controlling shareholder, several minority owners also hold stakes in the Dolphins. These include high-profile business leaders and celebrities such as Serena and Venus Williams, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, and others. Though they do not manage daily operations, they contribute to the Dolphins’ visibility and cultural presence, especially within Miami’s diverse community.
Executive Leadership: Tom Garfinkel
As Vice Chairman, President, and CEO, Tom Garfinkel is responsible for day-to-day business operations of the franchise. This includes sponsorships, marketing, stadium management, and global event planning. Garfinkel works closely with Ross to align business decisions with long-term franchise goals. His role effectively makes him the operational controller of the Dolphins’ business side.
Football Operations: General Manager and Head Coach
On the football side, decision-making is shared between the General Manager and the Head Coach, both of whom report to ownership. In 2025, Chris Grier serves as the Dolphins’ General Manager, handling roster management, contracts, and draft strategies. The Head Coach oversees team performance, player development, and on-field strategy. This football leadership team ensures that Ross’s financial investments are matched with competitive results.
Board and Advisory Influence
The Dolphins also rely on advisory input from business and community leaders connected to Ross and the minority owners. These voices provide perspective on marketing, community outreach, and branding initiatives, ensuring the Dolphins maintain strong ties to Miami’s cultural and economic environment.
Shared Control Model
Ultimately, control of the Miami Dolphins is shared between Stephen Ross as majority owner, Tom Garfinkel as CEO, and the football operations team led by Chris Grier and the coaching staff. This structure allows the franchise to function like a modern corporation, with Ross steering overall direction, Garfinkel leading business execution, and the football team focusing on competitive success.
Final Words
The Miami Dolphins are more than just a football team—they are a symbol of resilience, history, and community pride in South Florida. From Joe Robbie’s vision in the 1960s to Wayne Huizenga’s expansion efforts and Stephen Ross’s transformative investments, ownership has always shaped the identity and future of the franchise.
Today, Ross remains the driving force behind the team, supported by minority celebrity stakeholders and a strong executive team led by Tom Garfinkel. With a modern stadium, a growing global presence, and financial stability, the Dolphins are positioned not only as a top NFL franchise but also as a brand with enduring influence well beyond the football field.
FAQs
Who owns the Miami Dolphins?
The Miami Dolphins are majority-owned by Stephen M. Ross, a billionaire real estate developer and chairman of Related Companies. He controls the largest share of the team and Hard Rock Stadium.
What is the list of Miami Dolphins owners?
The Dolphins’ ownership group is led by Stephen Ross, but several minority celebrity owners hold stakes as well. These include Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, Fergie (Stacy Ferguson), and Jennifer Lopez (earlier but no longer active as of 2025). Together, they contribute to the team’s cultural influence, though Ross maintains controlling ownership.
Who were the original owners of the Miami Dolphins?
The Miami Dolphins were founded in 1965 by Joseph Robbie and Danny Thomas, an entertainer. Robbie later bought out Thomas’s share and became the controlling owner during the team’s early years.
Who are the new owners of the Miami Dolphins?
There are no new majority owners. Stephen Ross remains the controlling owner as of 2025. However, several celebrity investors joined as minority owners in the late 2000s and 2010s, including Serena and Venus Williams, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, and Fergie.
Is Serena Williams part owner of the Miami Dolphins?
Yes, Serena Williams is a minority owner of the Miami Dolphins. She and her sister Venus became part of the ownership group in 2009. Their investment was historic as they were among the first Black women to hold ownership stakes in an NFL team.
Is Dan Marino buying the Dolphins?
No, Dan Marino is not buying the Dolphins. Marino, the legendary Dolphins quarterback, serves as a special advisor to the franchise but does not hold any ownership stake.
What percentage of the Dolphins do Venus and Serena own?
The exact percentage of ownership for Serena and Venus Williams has not been disclosed publicly. It is generally considered to be a small minority stake, with Stephen Ross retaining controlling ownership of the team.
Does JLO own the Dolphins?
Jennifer Lopez was once part of the Dolphins’ celebrity minority ownership group alongside Marc Anthony. However, following her split from Marc Anthony, she no longer holds a stake in the team as of 2025.
What NBA team does Serena Williams own?
Serena Williams does not own an NBA team. Her only sports ownership stake is with the Miami Dolphins in the NFL.
What celebrities own the Dolphins?
Celebrity minority owners of the Miami Dolphins include Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, and Fergie. These celebrity partnerships have helped boost the Dolphins’ cultural profile and connection with Miami’s diverse community.
Who are the minority owners of the Miami Dolphins?
The minority owners of the Miami Dolphins include Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, and Fergie. Their combined influence brings entertainment, cultural diversity, and international recognition to the franchise.