The Arizona Cardinals are one of the oldest teams in the National Football League. Many fans often ask who owns Arizona Cardinals and how the team’s control is structured. Ownership has played a big role in shaping the franchise’s history, direction, and legacy.
Arizona Cardinals Profile
The Arizona Cardinals are a historic franchise in the National Football League (NFL). They are based in the Phoenix metropolitan area in Arizona. As of 2025, they are in their 106th season in the league and have been in Arizona for 38 seasons. They play their home games at State Farm Stadium.
Recent years have seen changes in management and performance, but the Cardinals remain one of the NFL’s oldest continuously operating teams.
Founders and Early History
The Cardinals trace their roots back to 1898. They started as a neighborhood club in Chicago called the Morgan Athletic Club. Their earliest owner/founder is Chris O’Brien, a local painting and decorating contractor.
Some early name changes include: the Normals, Racine Cardinals, and later, the Chicago Cardinals. In 1920, they became a charter member of the American Professional Football Association (which later was renamed the NFL).
In 1932, ownership passed to Charles W. Bidwill, starting what became almost a century of Bidwill family control.
Major Milestones
- 1898: Team founded as the Morgan Athletic Club in Chicago by Chris O’Brien. Considered the oldest continuously operating professional football team.
- 1901: The Team renamed the Racine Normals, then later the Racine Cardinals after acquiring used red jerseys.
- 1920: Became a charter member of the American Professional Football Association, which was later renamed the NFL.
- 1925: Claimed the NFL Championship during a controversial season involving the Pottsville Maroons.
- 1932: Purchased by Charles Bidwill, beginning the Bidwill family’s long-standing ownership.
- 1947: Won the NFL Championship, defeating the Philadelphia Eagles.
- 1960: Relocated from Chicago to St. Louis, becoming the St. Louis Cardinals.
- 1970: Joined the NFC East division after the AFL-NFL merger.
- 1974: Under head coach Don Coryell, the team earned back-to-back playoff appearances, nicknamed the “Cardiac Cardinals” for dramatic late-game wins.
- 1988: Relocated from St. Louis to Phoenix, renamed the Phoenix Cardinals.
- 1994: Changed team name to the Arizona Cardinals to represent the whole state.
- 1998: Earned first playoff victory in 51 years, defeating the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card round.
- 2006: Opened State Farm Stadium in Glendale, providing a modern home with a retractable roof and field.
- 2008: Won NFC Championship and reached Super Bowl XLIII, losing narrowly to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
- 2015: Won the NFC West under head coach Bruce Arians and reached the NFC Championship game.
- 2017: Legendary wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald surpassed 1,000 career receptions and continued cementing his Hall of Fame career.
- 2019: Drafted quarterback Kyler Murray with the No. 1 overall pick, ushering in a new era.
- 2021: Began season 7-0, the best start for the franchise since its St. Louis days, finishing 11-6 and returning to the playoffs.
- 2022: Ended season 4-13. Head coach Kliff Kingsbury was fired and general manager Steve Keim stepped down.
- 2023: Jonathan Gannon hired as head coach, and Monti Ossenfort as general manager, signaling a rebuild.
- 2024: Cardinals earned their 600th franchise win and finished 8-9.
- 2025: Entered their 106th NFL season and 38th season in Arizona under Michael Bidwill’s ownership, Jonathan Gannon as head coach, and Monti Ossenfort as GM.
Who Owns Arizona Cardinals: Largest Shareholders
Michael Bidwill is the principal owner, chairman, and president of the Arizona Cardinals. He inherited full control of the franchise in 2019 following his father’s passing. Under his leadership, the Bidwill family remains the major, if not sole, controlling interest in the team. His ownership involves both business and football operations oversight.
| Shareholder / Entity | Estimated Ownership % | Role / Position | Notes on Control & Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael J. Bidwill | 40%–80% | Principal Owner, President, Chairman | Controlling owner; makes all major business and football decisions; public face of the franchise; holds both economic and voting power. |
| Bill Bidwill Estate / Family Trusts | 10%–40% | Estate holdings / trust | Holds residual economic interest; preserves wealth for heirs; voting power typically structured to allow Michael control; used for estate and tax planning. |
| Named Siblings (William Jr., Patrick, Tim, Nicole) | 5%–30% (combined) | Family minority holders | Likely small individual stakes; mostly passive ownership; may hold voting rights through family agreements but not publicly active in operations. |
| Family Trusts / LLCs | 5%–25% | Legal / estate planning vehicles | Hold shares for tax and succession purposes; voting rights may be controlled by Michael via agreements; separates legal ownership from actual decision-making. |
Michael J. Bidwill — Principal Owner and Controlling Shareholder
Michael Bidwill is the principal owner, president, and chairman of the Arizona Cardinals. He has led the franchise since formally assuming control after his father’s passing in 2019. Michael oversees all aspects of the organization, including business operations, team management, and long-term strategic planning.
Under his leadership, the Cardinals have made key executive hires, including head coach Jonathan Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort, shaping the football operations for sustained growth. Michael also manages major stadium decisions, sponsorships, and community engagement programs.
As the public face of the team, he represents the franchise in league meetings, media interactions, and negotiations, ensuring the Cardinals maintain a strong reputation both in Arizona and across the NFL.
Bill Bidwill Estate / Family Trusts
Following the death of Bill Bidwill in 2019, a portion of the team is held within family trusts and estate structures. These trusts were established to preserve the franchise’s long-term legacy and ensure its continuity within the Bidwill family. While these holdings retain a portion of the team’s economic interest, they do not interfere with day-to-day operations.
The estate and trusts also provide financial stability, allowing the team to invest in modern facilities, training programs, and fan engagement initiatives. By keeping the franchise under family control, these structures help protect the Cardinals’ heritage and maintain the Bidwill family’s historical connection to the NFL.
Named Siblings — William Jr., Patrick, Tim, Nicole
Several Bidwill family members, including Michael’s siblings William Jr., Patrick, Tim, and Nicole, hold minority stakes in the franchise. Their involvement helps maintain the team as a true family-owned organization.
While they are not active in daily operations, their ownership ensures that strategic decisions remain aligned with the family’s vision and values.
These family members participate in high-level discussions on major franchise matters, contributing insights based on years of association with the team. Their collective presence strengthens continuity, honors the team’s long history, and supports Michael Bidwill in preserving the legacy of the Cardinals.
Family Trusts and LLCs
Additional shares are held through legal entities such as family trusts and LLCs. These vehicles are designed to safeguard the franchise’s value, support long-term financial planning, and protect ownership across generations.
Although these trusts and LLCs hold a portion of the team’s equity, they operate in the background. The voting and operational control remains centralized under Michael Bidwill. These structures allow the family to ensure the Cardinals remain a stable, well-managed, and family-owned team, while also providing flexibility for estate planning and future succession.
Arizona Cardinals Ownership History
The Arizona Cardinals are one of the oldest teams in professional football, and their ownership history reflects more than a century of changes and family stewardship. From a small neighborhood club in Chicago to a modern NFL franchise in Arizona, the team has passed through several generations of leadership.
Today, the Cardinals are controlled by Michael Bidwill, continuing a family legacy that spans nearly 100 years.
| Owner | Period | Role / Position | Key Contributions / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris O’Brien | 1898–1920 | Founder / Local Owner | Founded the Morgan Athletic Club in Chicago; led the team during its early neighborhood and professional football years; oversaw initial operations and local growth. |
| Charles W. Bidwill | 1932–1947 | Principal Owner | Purchased the team; professionalized operations; guided the team through the Great Depression; established long-term family ownership. |
| Violet Bidwill | 1947–1972 | Principal Owner | Managed team after Charles’s death; maintained family control; oversaw stability and prepared the franchise for transfer to next generation. |
| Bill Bidwill | 1972–2019 | Principal Owner | Led the franchise for nearly five decades; moved team from St. Louis to Phoenix in 1988; developed stadium and community programs; strengthened team infrastructure. |
| Michael J. Bidwill | 2019–Present | Principal Owner, President, Chairman | Current controlling owner; oversees football and business operations; responsible for major hires, stadium decisions, and strategic direction; maintains family legacy and modernizes franchise operations. |
Founding and Early Ownership (1898–1932)
The franchise began in 1898 as the Morgan Athletic Club in Chicago, founded by Chris O’Brien. Originally a neighborhood team, it quickly grew into one of the early professional football clubs. During this period, the team went through several local owners and name changes, including the Racine Cardinals, as it established itself in the early NFL.
Ownership at this time was closely tied to the founders and local supporters who managed team finances and operations on a small scale.
Charles W. Bidwill Era (1932–1947)
In 1932, businessman Charles W. Bidwill purchased the team. Charles recognized the potential of professional football and invested heavily to ensure the team’s stability. Under his leadership, the Cardinals became a more structured organization, setting the foundation for long-term family ownership.
Charles Bidwill guided the team through challenging economic times, including the Great Depression, and helped elevate the franchise’s competitive profile.
Violet Bidwill and Early Family Transition (1947–1972)
Following Charles Bidwill’s death, ownership passed to his widow, Violet Bidwill. She managed the team and maintained family control while ensuring the Cardinals remained viable in the NFL. During her tenure, the team experienced both on-field success and struggles, but family stewardship provided continuity.
Violet later transferred ownership stakes to her sons, establishing the path for the next generation of family leadership.
Bill Bidwill Era (1972–2019)
Bill Bidwill, Violet’s son, became the team’s principal owner in 1972. He managed both business and football operations for nearly five decades. Under Bill’s leadership, the franchise moved from St. Louis to Phoenix in 1988, beginning its modern era as the Arizona Cardinals.
Bill was instrumental in expanding stadium facilities, strengthening community programs, and positioning the team for long-term success. He remained deeply involved in all aspects of ownership until his death in 2019.
Transition to Michael Bidwill (2019–Present)
After Bill Bidwill passed away, ownership transitioned to his son, Michael Bidwill. Michael assumed the role of principal owner, president, and chairman, consolidating family control under his leadership. Today, Michael oversees the team’s operations, football decisions, and business strategy.
Under his guidance, the Cardinals continue to build on their historic legacy while modernizing their approach to management, facilities, and fan engagement.
Continuity and Family Legacy
The Cardinals’ ownership history demonstrates a consistent family presence across generations. From Charles Bidwill’s initial purchase to Michael Bidwill’s current leadership, the franchise has remained under family stewardship for nearly a century.
This continuity has helped the team maintain stability, preserve its history, and strengthen its identity as a family-owned NFL franchise.
Michael Bidwill Net Worth
As of September 2025, Michael J. Bidwill, the principal owner, president, and chairman of the Arizona Cardinals, has an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion. The majority of his wealth comes from his ownership of the Cardinals, a franchise that has been in the Bidwill family since 1932.
His net worth reflects both the franchise’s increasing valuation and his personal investments in business and real estate.
Primary Source of Wealth: Arizona Cardinals Ownership
The Arizona Cardinals are valued at approximately $5.6 billion as of September 2025, reflecting a 17% increase from the previous year. As the controlling owner, Michael benefits from the appreciation of the franchise, including revenue from ticket sales, media rights, merchandise, sponsorships, and stadium operations.
Under his leadership, the team has modernized facilities, strengthened its fan base, and increased its overall market value. Michael’s ownership stake directly translates into a substantial portion of his net worth.
Additional Ventures and Investments
Beyond the Cardinals, Michael Bidwill has been active in business and civic activities in the Phoenix area. He has served on the boards of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and the Arizona Commerce Authority, contributing to regional economic growth.
He is also involved in philanthropy, supporting youth programs, educational initiatives, and health-related charities. Notably, his contributions to Georgetown Preparatory School led to the dedication of a stadium in honor of his father, Bill Bidwill. These ventures, while secondary to his NFL ownership, supplement his wealth and influence in the region.
Revenue Streams Contributing to Wealth
Michael’s net worth is supported by multiple revenue streams generated by the Cardinals and related business activities. These include:
- Team Operations: Ticket sales, merchandise, concessions, and sponsorships generate significant annual revenue.
- Media Rights: National and local broadcasting deals with NFL media partners provide a large recurring income.
- Stadium and Facilities: Revenue from State Farm Stadium, including events beyond football games, adds to its economic value.
- Investments: Real estate holdings, philanthropic projects with endowments, and minority stakes in local businesses further enhance his wealth.
Comparison with Other NFL Owners
Within the NFL, Michael Bidwill’s net worth is modest compared to the league’s richest owners. For example, David Tepper of the Carolina Panthers has an estimated net worth of $17.8 billion.
Despite this, Michael’s wealth positions him as a significant and influential owner, particularly in the context of team operations, league governance, and regional impact in Arizona. His leadership combines financial acumen with family legacy, ensuring that the Cardinals remain a competitive and valuable franchise.
Arizona Cardinals Net Worth
As of September 2025, the Arizona Cardinals are valued at approximately $5.6 billion, reflecting a significant increase from previous years. This valuation makes the team one of the more valuable franchises in the NFL, driven by strong revenue streams, valuable assets, and a loyal fan base.
The team’s growth has been influenced by both on-field performance and strategic business management, including stadium improvements, sponsorships, and enhanced media presence.
| Year | Estimated Value (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $1.8 billion | Ranked 28th in NFL team valuations. |
| 2016 | $2.0 billion | Continued steady growth in franchise value. |
| 2017 | $2.3 billion | Incremental increase reflecting positive financial trends. |
| 2018 | $2.5 billion | Consistent upward trajectory in team valuation. |
| 2019 | $2.65 billion | Continued growth amidst league-wide valuation increases. |
| 2020 | $2.8 billion | Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on valuations not yet fully realized. |
| 2021 | $3.0 billion | Recovery from pandemic effects; increased media rights deals. |
| 2022 | $3.4 billion | Enhanced revenue from expanded digital media presence. |
| 2023 | $3.8 billion | Significant growth driven by on-field performance and brand expansion. |
| 2024 | $4.3 billion | Continued upward trend; ranked 29th in NFL team valuations. |
| 2025 | $5.6 billion | 17% increase from previous year; ranked 29th in NFL team valuations. |
Team Operations and Revenue Streams
The Cardinals generate revenue through multiple channels that together support the franchise’s high valuation. Ticket sales from home games at State Farm Stadium remain a key source of income, supported by consistently high attendance and premium seating options such as suites and club-level tickets.
National and local media rights deals contribute substantial revenue, with the NFL’s national broadcasting contracts providing guaranteed income.
Sponsorships and partnerships with major corporations enhance financial stability and create marketing opportunities. Merchandise sales, including jerseys, hats, and other branded items, provide additional streams, boosted by a passionate and growing fan base.
The combination of game-day revenue, media contracts, and commercial partnerships ensures a steady and diversified income structure for the team.
Stadium and Real Estate Assets
State Farm Stadium is a significant contributor to the franchise’s value. Beyond hosting football games, the stadium is a multi-purpose venue that accommodates concerts, soccer matches, and other large events, generating additional revenue streams.
Recent renovations, including improved seating, hospitality areas, and technology upgrades, have enhanced the fan experience and increased the overall asset value of the stadium.
The stadium also benefits from naming rights deals, premium suites, and event hosting fees, all of which contribute directly to the team’s financial valuation. Ownership of this high-value real estate asset positions the Cardinals favorably compared to teams that lease or share stadium facilities.
Brand Value and Market Presence
The Cardinals’ brand is an important intangible asset that contributes significantly to the franchise’s net worth. The team maintains strong engagement with its local community through charitable programs, youth initiatives, and fan events, strengthening loyalty and expanding the fan base.
Nationally, media coverage of the Cardinals’ games and team activities increases recognition and attracts sponsorships. A growing presence on digital platforms, including social media, also boosts brand visibility and merchandise sales.
Consistent team performance and media exposure contribute to a positive perception of the franchise, adding value beyond tangible assets.
League Revenue Sharing
As part of the NFL, the Cardinals benefit from the league’s revenue-sharing system, which spreads income from national television contracts, licensing agreements, and NFL Ventures evenly among all teams.
This model ensures financial stability and reduces risk from regional market limitations. Revenue from NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and collective licensing deals adds a consistent and predictable income stream, supporting the team’s high valuation and contributing to its long-term financial growth.
Arizona Cardinals Leadership
The Arizona Cardinals’ leadership structure combines family ownership with experienced football and business executives. From Michael Bidwill overseeing overall franchise operations to coaches and specialized staff managing on-field performance, the team is guided by a coordinated and professional management team. This structure ensures strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and strong performance both on and off the field.
Michael J. Bidwill – Principal Owner, Chairman, and President
Michael J. Bidwill serves as the principal owner, chairman, and president of the Arizona Cardinals. He assumed ownership of the team in 2019 following the passing of his father, Bill Bidwill. Michael has been instrumental in overseeing the franchise’s operations and strategic direction, continuing the family’s legacy in professional football.
Monti Ossenfort – General Manager
Monti Ossenfort holds the position of General Manager for the Arizona Cardinals. He is responsible for player acquisitions, roster management, and overall team-building strategies. Ossenfort’s role is pivotal in shaping the team’s competitive edge through strategic decisions and player development.
Jeremy Walls – Chief Operating Officer
Jeremy Walls serves as the Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the franchise. His responsibilities include managing business operations, ensuring operational efficiency, and supporting the team’s strategic initiatives.
David Koeninger – Chief Legal Officer
As Chief Legal Officer, David Koeninger manages the legal affairs of the organization. His role encompasses overseeing legal compliance, contract negotiations, and addressing any legal matters that arise, ensuring the franchise operates within legal parameters.
Shaun Mayo – Chief People Officer
Shaun Mayo holds the position of Chief People Officer, focusing on human resources functions within the organization. He leads initiatives related to workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion, and acts as a liaison for the team within the community on various civic initiatives.
Jonathan Gannon – Head Coach
Jonathan Gannon is the Head Coach of the Arizona Cardinals. He brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played a key role in leading the team to the Super Bowl. Gannon signed a five-year contract with the Cardinals, aiming to enhance the team’s defensive strategies and overall performance.
Drew Petzing – Offensive Coordinator
Drew Petzing serves as the Offensive Coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals. Under his guidance, the team’s offense has shown significant improvement, moving from 19th to 11th in yards and from 24th to 12th in points. Petzing’s leadership is crucial in developing the team’s offensive strategies and player performance.
Klayton Adams – Offensive Line Coach
Klayton Adams is the Offensive Line Coach for the Arizona Cardinals. In his two seasons with the team, Adams has been instrumental in achieving notable offensive success, including ranking seventh in rushing yards and eleventh in total offense during the 2024 season. His coaching is vital in developing the offensive line’s performance and cohesion.
Winston DeLattiboudere III – Defensive Line Coach
Winston DeLattiboudere III joined the Arizona Cardinals as the Defensive Line Coach in February 2025. Prior to his role with the Cardinals, DeLattiboudere was selected for the American Football Coaches Association’s 35 Under 35 program in 2024, recognizing his potential as a future leader in football coaching.
Alec Osborne – Defensive Quality Control Coach
Alec Osborne was hired by the Arizona Cardinals as the Defensive Quality Control Coach in February 2025. He previously served as the inside linebackers coach at the University of Louisiana Monroe and as a defensive quality control coach at Baylor, where he helped develop standout linebackers.
Final Thoughts
The Arizona Cardinals are one of the most historic teams in the NFL. Ownership has stayed within the Bidwill family for nearly a century, shaping its legacy and ensuring long-term vision. Michael Bidwill continues to guide the franchise with a mix of tradition and modern management. For fans wondering who owns Arizona Cardinals, the answer remains firmly tied to the Bidwill family, a name deeply connected with the team’s history and future.
FAQs
Who is the owner of the Arizona Cardinals?
The Arizona Cardinals are owned by Michael J. Bidwill, who serves as the principal owner, president, and chairman of the franchise. He assumed control in 2019 following the passing of his father, Bill Bidwill, and oversees both the business and football operations of the team.
What does the Bidwill family own?
The Bidwill family primarily owns the Arizona Cardinals NFL franchise. Beyond the team, they have historically maintained real estate holdings in Arizona and Chicago, family trusts, and estate assets, which support succession planning and preserve the family legacy.
How much did Bidwill buy the Cardinals for?
Charles W. Bidwill, Michael’s grandfather, purchased the team in 1932 for approximately $50,000. This was a significant investment at the time and marked the beginning of nearly a century of family ownership.
When did the Cardinals move to Arizona?
The Cardinals relocated from St. Louis to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1988. The team was later renamed the Arizona Cardinals in 1994 to reflect its statewide identity.
How long has the Bidwill family owned the Cardinals?
The Bidwill family has owned the franchise since 1932, making it one of the longest-running family-owned teams in NFL history—over 90 years of continuous ownership.
Who are Michael Bidwill’s wife and kids?
Michael Bidwill is married to Christy Bidwill. Together, they have two children, though their names are kept private to maintain family privacy. The family resides primarily in Phoenix, Arizona.
Who owns the Bidwill mansion?
The Bidwill family maintains several residences, with the main family home in Phoenix commonly referred to as the Bidwill Mansion. This property is owned by the family and serves as a private residence for Michael Bidwill and his immediate family.
How many airplanes do the Arizona Cardinals own?
The Arizona Cardinals operate at least one private team jet, which is used for transporting players, coaches, and staff to away games. Additional aircraft may be leased or chartered as needed, but the exact number of planes is not publicly disclosed.
Who owned the Cardinals before Busch?
Before Anheuser-Busch, which had minority involvement in some team sponsorships, the team was owned by the Bidwill family, with Charles W. Bidwill as the original purchaser in 1932. The Bidwills have retained controlling ownership throughout the franchise’s history.