The Minnesota Vikings are one of the most recognized teams in the National Football League. Fans often wonder who owns Minnesota Vikings and how the franchise has evolved over the decades. The team’s ownership has a rich history tied to football growth and business leadership.
Key Takeaways
- The Minnesota Vikings are primarily owned by the Wilf family, with Zygi Wilf holding 60%, Mark Wilf 25%, and Leonard Wilf 15%, giving Zygi controlling authority over strategic decisions.
- Zygi Wilf serves as chairman and principal owner, while Mark Wilf manages day-to-day operations as team president, and Leonard Wilf supports long-term franchise vision.
- The Wilf family purchased the Vikings in 2005 for $600 million. As of September 2025, the franchise is valued at $6.8 billion, reflecting substantial growth in both value and brand.
- Their ownership has ensured stable leadership, major investments like U.S. Bank Stadium, strategic roster building, and strong fan engagement, contributing to the franchise’s long-term success.
Minnesota Vikings Profile
The Minnesota Vikings are a professional NFL team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They compete in the NFC North division.
As of 2025, they are entering their 65th season. Under the leadership of owner Zygi Wilf, with Mark Wilf as team president, the organization has shown stability. The coaching staff is led by Kevin O’Connell.
Their home stadium is the U.S. Bank Stadium, opened in 2016. Recent seasons have seen strong performances, including a 14–3 regular-season in 2024.
Founders
- The Vikings franchise was awarded in 1960 to a group of Minnesota businessmen: Max Winter, William “Bill” Boyer, and H. P. Skoglund.
- Bernard H. Ridder, Jr. and Ole Haugsrud were also part of the ownership group. Ole Haugsrud held a special agreement from earlier when he sold the Duluth Eskimos to the league, giving him a 10% stake in any future Minnesota team.
- The team was to begin in the American Football League (AFL), but the group relinquished that franchise and instead got an NFL franchise in January 1960. Playing began in 1961.
Major Milestones
- 1961 – Vikings play their first NFL game and beat the Chicago Bears 37–13 with rookie Fran Tarkenton leading the way.
- 1964 – The team records its first winning season at 8-5-1.
- 1967 – Bud Grant is hired as head coach, beginning a long era of success.
- 1969 – Vikings win the NFL Championship before the AFL-NFL merger by defeating the Cleveland Browns.
- 1970 – First season after the AFL-NFL merger, the Vikings reach Super Bowl IV.
- 1973 – Team reaches Super Bowl VIII after another strong playoff run.
- 1974 – Vikings advance to Super Bowl IX.
- 1976 – Fourth Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XI, though the team again falls short of a title.
- 1982 – The Vikings move into the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome.
- 1987 – Vikings make it to the NFC Championship Game but lose to Washington.
- 1998 – Franchise posts best-ever regular season record of 15-1 led by rookie Randy Moss, but lose NFC Championship in heartbreaking fashion.
- 2000 – Vikings return to the NFC Championship Game but lose to the New York Giants.
- 2005 – Zygi Wilf and his family purchase the franchise, bringing financial stability and long-term leadership.
- 2009 – Under Brett Favre, the Vikings reach the NFC Championship Game but lose to the New Orleans Saints.
- 2016 – U.S. Bank Stadium opens in Minneapolis, giving the team a state-of-the-art facility.
- 2017 – Vikings reach NFC Championship Game after the famous “Minneapolis Miracle” play by Stefon Diggs against the Saints.
- 2020 – Franchise continues strong drafting under GM Rick Spielman and establishes Justin Jefferson as a star wide receiver.
- 2022 – Kevin O’Connell is hired as head coach, bringing an offensive-minded approach.
- 2023 – Vikings win the NFC North with consistent playmaking from quarterback Kirk Cousins and star wideouts.
- 2024 – The Vikings finish 14-3, one of the best records in franchise history, and remain among the top teams heading into 2025.
Who Owns Minnesota Vikings: Top Shareholders
The Minnesota Vikings are owned by the Wilf family, who acquired the team in 2005 and continue to control it in 2025.
The ownership is family-led and shared among multiple Wilf family members. Zygi Wilf is the chairman and lead owner. Mark Wilf acts as president and handles most public and operational aspects. Leonard “Lenny” Wilf also holds ownership.
Control is centralized within the Wilf group, though exact percentages of each share are not publicly disclosed. Their approach is often described as “multigenerational” ownership, with several family members involved in executive or oversight roles.
Ownership Structure and Control
The Wilfs have structured their ownership to keep control within the family. Zygi’s controlling 60% share allows him to direct key matters, but both Mark and Leonard have meaningful stakes that give them influence in governance. Together, they present a unified ownership front.
This structure has allowed them to maintain stability, fund large projects like U.S. Bank Stadium, and invest heavily in both the team and the surrounding Minneapolis community.
Below is an overview of the major shareholders of the Minnesota Vikings as of September 2025:
| Shareholder | Ownership Percentage | Role/Title | Key Responsibilities and Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zygi Wilf | 60% | Chairman, Principal Owner | Controls majority stake, final decision-maker on strategic and financial matters, oversees stadium projects, sponsorships, and long-term planning. |
| Mark Wilf | 25% | President, Co-Owner | Manages day-to-day business operations, partnerships, public relations, and represents the Vikings in NFL matters. |
| Leonard Wilf | 15% | Co-Owner | Provides input in governance, supports family decision-making, and maintains influence in ownership structure. |
Zygi Wilf – 60%
Zygi Wilf is the controlling owner of the Minnesota Vikings with an estimated 60% stake. He was the lead figure in the 2005 purchase of the franchise for around $600 million.
As chairman, Zygi oversees major financial and strategic decisions, including stadium deals, sponsorships, and long-term planning. While he is less involved in daily football operations, he has the final say on critical matters such as executive hires and organizational direction.
His majority stake ensures he has the strongest voice in ownership decisions.
Mark Wilf – 25%
Mark Wilf, Zygi’s younger brother, owns approximately 25% of the Minnesota Vikings. He is also the team’s president and manages the business operations of the franchise. His responsibilities include handling partnerships, public relations, and league representation. Mark is frequently the spokesperson for the team at events and league meetings.
While Zygi holds the majority stake, Mark’s ownership and executive role give him substantial influence in shaping the direction of the franchise.
Leonard Wilf – 15%
Leonard “Lenny” Wilf, a cousin of Zygi and Mark, holds around 15% of the Vikings. He is less visible publicly but is active in ownership discussions and governance.
His role is supportive but significant, providing an additional voice in family decision-making. Leonard’s ownership ensures the Vikings remain a family-operated franchise with collective influence across multiple members of the Wilf family.
Minnesota Vikings Ownership History
The Minnesota Vikings have transitioned through several ownership eras since being awarded an NFL franchise in 1960. From a founding group of Minnesota businessmen to wealthy investors and finally to the Wilf family, each phase of ownership has left its mark on the team’s growth, financial standing, and connection to fans.
Today, the Wilfs represent one of the most stable and influential ownership groups in the league, but it took decades of changes to reach this point.
| Period | Owner(s) / Group | Ownership Details & Control | Key Notes and Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1960–1970s | Max Winter, Bill Boyer, H. P. Skoglund, Bernard H. Ridder Jr., Ole Haugsrud | Founding owners; Haugsrud held 10% from prior NFL agreement | Oversaw franchise launch in 1961; guided team to multiple Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s. |
| 1970s–1980s | Max Winter (lead owner) | Emerged as dominant figure among original owners | Managed team through its golden era; later involved in disputes with partners over control. |
| 1986–1991 | Carl Pohlad and Irwin Jacobs (with Winter and others) | Acquired major stakes alongside original owners | Brought financial power but faced conflicts; short-lived stability due to disagreements. |
| 1991–1998 | Mike Lynn and investor group | Former GM Lynn led new ownership consortium | Controversial leadership; ownership lacked unity though team stayed competitive. |
| 1998–2005 | Red McCombs | Purchased team for $246 million | Popularized “Purple Pride”; struggled to secure new stadium; sold due to financial pressures. |
| 2005–Present (2025) | Zygi Wilf (60%), Mark Wilf (25%), Leonard Wilf (15%) | Wilf family-led ownership with Zygi as chairman | Purchased for $600 million; built U.S. Bank Stadium (2016); valuation reached $4.5 billion by 2025; brought long-term stability and investment. |
Founding Ownership (1960–1970s)
The franchise was first awarded to Minnesota businessmen Max Winter, Bill Boyer, and H. P. Skoglund in 1960. Bernard H. Ridder Jr., a publishing executive, later joined the ownership group.
Ole Haugsrud, a former high school coach and businessman, received a 10% share due to a previous agreement with the NFL dating back to when he sold the Duluth Eskimos franchise in the 1920s.
The founding group oversaw the team’s entry into the NFL in 1961, guided its early competitive years, and witnessed the Vikings’ rise as one of the dominant franchises in the 1970s, highlighted by multiple Super Bowl appearances.
Max Winter Era (1970s–1980s)
By the 1970s, Max Winter had become the leading figure in the Vikings’ ownership group. He was deeply involved in the team’s management and played a pivotal role in shaping its identity during its golden era. However, as the years went on, Winter’s relationships with his partners became strained.
Legal disputes and disagreements over the direction of the team surfaced, creating uncertainty within the organization. Despite this internal turmoil, the Vikings remained a playoff contender, thanks largely to Bud Grant’s coaching and the success of the “Purple People Eaters” defense.
Pohlad and Jacobs Involvement (1986–1991)
In 1986, Carl Pohlad, owner of the Minnesota Twins, and businessman Irwin Jacobs acquired significant stakes in the Vikings. Their involvement marked the first time ownership moved outside of the original group.
Pohlad brought deep financial resources, while Jacobs was known for his aggressive business style. Despite their wealth, their partnership with Winter and others was rocky, with frequent disagreements on control and team management. This instability led to further reshuffling, eventually paving the way for another ownership transition.
Mike Lynn and Investor Group (1991–1998)
In 1991, Mike Lynn, the Vikings’ former general manager, put together an ownership group that took over the franchise. The group included several prominent investors who hoped to modernize the business side of the team. However, Lynn’s leadership was controversial, as many fans viewed him as self-serving due to previous disputes over player contracts and control of the team.
While the Vikings continued to perform reasonably well on the field, the ownership group was never truly united, which limited its long-term effectiveness.
Red McCombs Era (1998–2005)
Red McCombs, a billionaire businessman from Texas, purchased the team in 1998 for $246 million. McCombs brought charisma and enthusiasm, branding the Vikings as “Purple Pride.” He was passionate about the team and invested in improving its profile nationally.
However, his biggest challenge was securing a new stadium deal to replace the aging Metrodome. Despite years of lobbying, he was unsuccessful in gaining political and financial support for a new facility. Frustrated by these challenges and the rising costs of NFL ownership, McCombs eventually decided to sell the franchise.
Wilf Family Ownership (2005–Present)
In 2005, Zygi Wilf and his family purchased the Minnesota Vikings for approximately $600 million. Zygi, along with his brother Mark and cousin Leonard, brought long-term vision, deep financial resources, and a commitment to the community.
One of their most significant achievements was securing the construction of U.S. Bank Stadium, which opened in 2016 and transformed the team’s financial outlook.
Under the Wilfs, the Vikings have consistently ranked among the most valuable franchises in the NFL, reaching an estimated $6.8 billion valuation as of September 2025. The Wilfs have also emphasized stability, investing in both business operations and player development. Their family-run model has ensured the team remains privately held and firmly under their control.
Zygi Wilf Net Worth
Zygi Wilf’s personal net worth in 2025 is around $1.3 billion. He ranks in the middle tier of NFL owners in terms of wealth. His fortune is spread across real estate, sports holdings, and business ventures, which provide both steady income and asset growth.
Sources of Wealth
The core of Zygi’s wealth comes from real estate. The Wilf family’s company, Garden Homes, along with Garden Commercial Properties, owns more than 100 shopping centers and nearly 90,000 apartment units across the United States.
This portfolio provides him with continuous cash flow and long-term asset value. Another major source is the Minnesota Vikings franchise, which he and his family bought in 2005 for $600 million.
As of September 2025, the team is valued at $6.8 billion, making it one of the most valuable assets in his portfolio. Zygi has also invested in other sports ventures, including stakes in soccer teams, which further add to his financial profile.
Liabilities and Legal Matters
Zygi Wilf’s net worth has occasionally been affected by legal disputes. In 2013, he and his family were found liable in a civil racketeering-related case in New Jersey. Although damages were later reduced on appeal, this case highlighted the risks tied to large-scale property investments. Despite such challenges, his fortune has continued to grow.
Net Worth Growth Over Time
When Wilf bought the Vikings in 2005, his wealth was far less diversified in sports assets. The surge in NFL franchise values, combined with steady growth in real estate, significantly increased his net worth. From a $600 million franchise acquisition to a $6.8 billion valuation in 2025, the growth in team value alone has multiplied his fortune many times over.
Minnesota Vikings Net Worth
As of September 2025, the Minnesota Vikings are valued at approximately $6.8 billion. This figure places the Vikings among the most valuable franchises in the NFL. The dramatic rise in value reflects the team’s strong market position, successful business operations, and continued fan engagement.
| Year | Minnesota Vikings Franchise Value | Zygi Wilf Net Worth | Wilf Family Net Worth | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $2.0 billion | $0.9 billion | $3.0 billion | Opening of U.S. Bank Stadium; franchise value jumps significantly. |
| 2017 | $2.2 billion | $0.95 billion | $3.1 billion | Strong season ticket sales and media deals; real estate continues steady growth. |
| 2018 | $2.5 billion | $1.0 billion | $3.3 billion | Franchise valuation increases due to NFL-wide revenue growth. |
| 2019 | $2.8 billion | $1.05 billion | $3.5 billion | Increased sponsorship deals and stadium revenues. |
| 2020 | $3.1 billion | $1.1 billion | $3.7 billion | Pandemic impacts revenue slightly, but long-term assets remain strong. |
| 2021 | $3.5 billion | $1.15 billion | $4.0 billion | NFL media rights surge; franchise revenue rebounds. |
| 2022 | $4.0 billion | $1.2 billion | $4.2 billion | High-profile player acquisitions boost brand and value. |
| 2023 | $4.8 billion | $1.25 billion | $4.5 billion | Steady growth in sponsorship and real estate holdings. |
| 2024 | $5.8 billion | $1.28 billion | $4.7 billion | NFL franchise values surge; team recognized as one of the league’s most valuable. |
| 2025 | $6.8 billion | $1.3 billion | $5.0+ billion | Latest valuation; Wilf family continues long-term stability and expansion of assets. |
Drivers of Value Growth
Several key factors have driven the Vikings’ franchise valuation upward.
First, revenues from ticket sales, sponsorships, merchandising, and media rights continue to grow year‐over‐year in the NFL and for the Vikings in particular.
Second, the quality and modern amenities of their home facility, U.S. Bank Stadium, enhance revenue from premium seating, events, and sponsorship.
Third, the team’s competitive performance, including strong regular seasons and player investment, has helped maintain fan demand and financial leverage.
Finally, the broader NFL market inflation and increased demand for team ownership push franchise values upward across the league, which also lifts the Vikings’ value.
Comparison to Purchase Price and Historical Value
When the Wilf family bought the Vikings in 2005, the purchase price was about $600 million.
Over the ensuing 20 years, that represents a more than tenfold increase in team value. Historical valuations (from sources like Forbes) in earlier years ranged in the low billions, but never near the current $6+ billion mark; so the growth has accelerated, especially in the last decade.
Revenue and Financial Metrics Impacting Value
The Vikings’ revenue streams help explain why they are valued so high. Their commitments to free agent contracts, salary cap usage, and operational performance are among the top in the NFL.
In 2025, for example, the Vikings committed about $265 million in free agent contracts, which is the second-highest in the league.
This type of spending indicates the team is aggressively investing in performance, which feeds into both revenue growth (through wins, fan engagement) and brand value.
Also, the team manages roster and cap metrics in ways that maximize competitiveness, which in turn supports fan loyalty and financial stability.
Risks & Challenges to Valuation
Despite the strong valuation, there are risks that could affect future worth. These include fluctuations in media rights deals, changes in sponsorship or attendance (for example, during economic downturns), increased player salary obligations or injury risks that affect team performance, and potential costs of stadium maintenance or upgrades.
Also, league policies and revenue sharing can shift, affecting profitability. Moreover, real estate and venue revenue are partially subject to local zoning, regulation, and public financing issues, which can increase costs or limit upside.
Net Worth Comparison With Other NFL Teams
As of September 2025, the Minnesota Vikings are valued at $6.25 billion, according to Forbes. This positions them among the mid-tier franchises in the NFL, reflecting a strong market presence and consistent performance. Here’s how the Vikings compare to other NFL teams:
- Dallas Cowboys: Valued at $13 billion, the Cowboys remain the most valuable NFL franchise, benefiting from a massive stadium deal and extensive brand reach.
- Los Angeles Rams: With a valuation of $10.5 billion, the Rams rank second, bolstered by their state-of-the-art stadium and successful team performance.
- New England Patriots: Valued at $8.76 billion, the Patriots continue to leverage their historic success and loyal fan base.
- Chicago Bears: Recently valued at $8.8 billion, the Bears’ valuation has increased following a stake repurchase, underscoring their strong market position.
- San Francisco 49ers: Valued at $8.6 billion, the 49ers’ valuation reflects their success on the field and strategic market positioning.
- Green Bay Packers: Valued at $6.65 billion, the Packers maintain a strong financial position despite being in a smaller market.
- Minnesota Vikings: Valued at $6.25 billion, the Vikings’ valuation reflects their consistent performance and strong fan engagement.
- Los Angeles Chargers: Valued at $6.2 billion, the Chargers benefit from the Los Angeles market and a modern stadium.
- Philadelphia Eagles: Valued at $6.6 billion, the Eagles’ valuation is supported by their recent success and loyal fan base.
- New York Jets: Valued at $6.9 billion, the Jets’ valuation is bolstered by their presence in the New York market.
Minnesota Vikings Leadership
The Minnesota Vikings operate under a structured leadership model that blends family ownership with professional management.
At the helm is the Wilf family, whose members hold key ownership and executive positions. Beneath them, a team of seasoned executives oversees various facets of the organization, from business operations to football performance.
This hierarchical approach ensures a balance between strategic vision and day-to-day operations, fostering both stability and adaptability within the franchise.
Ownership
Zygi Wilf – Owner/Chairman: Zygi Wilf enters his 21st season as Owner/Chairman of the Minnesota Vikings in 2025. Since the Wilf family purchased the team in 2005, Zygi has been instrumental in transforming the organization, leading initiatives such as the construction of U.S. Bank Stadium and overseeing the team’s growth into a nationally recognized franchise.
Mark Wilf – President: Mark Wilf serves as the President of the Minnesota Vikings, overseeing all aspects of the team’s operations and contributing to the franchise’s strategic direction. His leadership has been pivotal in expanding the Vikings’ brand and community engagement efforts.
Leonard Wilf – Owner: Leonard Wilf is an Owner of the Minnesota Vikings, working alongside his family to support the team’s growth and success. His involvement ensures continuity in the franchise’s long-term vision and objectives.
Executive Leadership
Andrew Miller – Chief Operating Officer: Andrew Miller enters his seventh season as Chief Operating Officer of the Minnesota Vikings in 2025, having been named to the position on Aug. 12, 2019.
As COO, Miller collaborates with Vikings ownership and executive leadership to develop the organization’s vision and strategy for all business departments. His role encompasses overseeing operations, marketing, and community relations, ensuring the franchise’s objectives align with its operational capabilities.
Steve Poppen – Executive Vice President & Chief Business Administration Officer: Currently in his 27th season with the Vikings in 2025, Steve Poppen serves as the team’s Executive Vice President & Chief Business Administration Officer.
In his role, Poppen works with the accounting and finance, security, facilities, and IT departments, along with the financing and operations of U.S. Bank Stadium and Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center. His extensive experience contributes to the efficient management of the team’s business operations.
Rob Brzezinski – Executive Vice President of Football Operations: Rob Brzezinski enters his 33rd season in the NFL and 27th with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025.
As Executive Vice President of Football Operations, Brzezinski provides broad-based management expertise and the value of being one of the most experienced NFL executives in the modern (post-1992) Collective Bargaining Agreement era. His leadership is crucial in navigating the complexities of football operations and player management.
Jeff Anderson – Executive Vice President & Chief Communications Officer: Jeff Anderson enters his 23rd season with the Vikings in 2025 and his fourth as the team’s Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer. Anderson oversees the franchise’s communication strategies, media relations, and public image, ensuring consistent and effective messaging to fans and stakeholders.
Tyler Williams – Vice President of Player Health and Performance: Tyler Williams enters his fourth season with the Minnesota Vikings and third as Vice President of Player Health and Performance in 2025.
Williams is responsible for overseeing the health, fitness, and rehabilitation programs for players, ensuring they maintain peak physical condition throughout the season.
Football Operations
Kwesi Adofo-Mensah – General Manager: Kwesi Adofo-Mensah signed a multi-year contract extension with the Vikings in May 2025. Adofo-Mensah’s first three years as general manager featured two 13-win seasons in 2022 and 2023, highlighting his effective leadership in player acquisitions and roster management. His strategic approach has been instrumental in building a competitive team.
Kevin O’Connell – Head Coach: Kevin O’Connell enters his third season as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings in 2025. O’Connell’s leadership focuses on developing a dynamic offense and fostering a cohesive team culture. His coaching philosophy emphasizes adaptability and player development, aiming to elevate the team’s performance each season.
Conclusion
The question of who owns Minnesota Vikings brings us to the Wilf family, led by Zygi Wilf. Since 2005, their ownership has transformed the franchise into one of the NFL’s most stable and valuable organizations. With a modern stadium, a committed fan base, and strong financial backing, the Vikings are well-positioned for future success.
FAQs
Who are the owners of the Minnesota Vikings?
The Minnesota Vikings are owned by the Wilf family. Zygi Wilf holds a 60% controlling stake, Mark Wilf owns 25%, and Leonard Wilf owns 15%. The family collectively manages the franchise through a structured ownership and executive model.
What is the list of Minnesota Vikings owners?
The current owners of the Vikings are Zygi Wilf, Mark Wilf, and Leonard Wilf. Zygi is the principal owner and chairman, Mark serves as team president, and Leonard provides strategic support.
Who were the Minnesota Vikings’ past owners?
Since their founding in 1961, the Vikings have been owned by a group of Minneapolis businessmen led by Bill Boyer. Over the years, ownership transitioned, and in 2005, the Wilf family purchased the team from the previous owners.
Who owns the Minnesota Vikings stadium?
The Minnesota Vikings play at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The stadium is owned by the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, a public entity, but the Vikings have significant operational control and revenue agreements with the stadium.
Who are the Minnesota Vikings’ minority owners?
Mark Wilf and Leonard Wilf are minority owners compared to Zygi Wilf’s 60% controlling stake. Together, they play important roles in governance and strategic decisions but do not have ultimate control.
Does Randy Moss own the Vikings?
No, Randy Moss, the former wide receiver, does not own the Minnesota Vikings. He played for the team but has no ownership stake.
Who is the owner of the Minnesota Vikings?
The principal owner of the Minnesota Vikings is Zygi Wilf. He holds a 60% controlling stake and oversees major strategic, financial, and operational decisions for the franchise.
How did the Wilf family make their money?
The Wilf family built their wealth primarily through real estate. They founded and expanded Garden Homes and its affiliated commercial companies, owning thousands of residential units and millions of square feet of commercial properties across the U.S. Their fortune was later diversified through investments in professional sports, including the Vikings.
What companies does Zygi Wilf own?
Zygi Wilf owns and operates several real estate companies, including Garden Homes and Garden Commercial Properties. These companies manage residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments across multiple states. Additionally, Zygi has stakes in sports franchises beyond the Vikings, such as soccer clubs, which further contribute to his business portfolio.
How much did the Wilf family buy the Vikings for?
The Wilf family bought the Vikings for about $600 million in 2005.
Does Zygi Wilf own 100% of the Vikings?
No, Zygi Wilf is the principal owner, but the ownership is shared within the Wilf family, including Mark and Leonard Wilf.