The Indianapolis Colts have built a legacy that stretches from Baltimore to Indianapolis, with unforgettable stars and championship moments along the way. But behind the team’s success and identity lies a bigger question for many fans—who owns Indianapolis Colts and how has that ownership shaped the franchise over the years?
Indianapolis Colts Profile
The Colts are more than just an NFL team. They embody decades of football history, moving locations, producing legends, and influencing the culture of the sport. Their profile shows how origins, leadership, and key moments shaped what the Indianapolis Colts are today.
Founders and Origins
The Indianapolis Colts trace their roots back to 1953, when Carroll Rosenbloom founded the Baltimore Colts after acquiring the remnants of the failed Dallas Texans franchise. Rosenbloom quickly turned the team into a winner, guiding them to championships in the late 1950s.
In 1972, businessman Robert Irsay took control of the franchise through a swap deal with Rosenbloom. The Irsay family has remained the team’s owners ever since, making it one of the few NFL franchises with such long-standing family ownership.
Major Milestones
- 1953: Baltimore Colts officially founded by Carroll Rosenbloom after purchasing the defunct Dallas Texans.
- 1958: Colts win “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” the NFL Championship against the New York Giants.
- 1959: Colts repeat as NFL champions, cementing their dominance.
- 1968: Colts win the NFL Championship but suffer an upset loss in Super Bowl III to the New York Jets.
- 1970: Colts win Super Bowl V, defeating the Dallas Cowboys.
- 1972: Robert Irsay acquires the Colts through a franchise swap with Carroll Rosenbloom.
- 1977: Baltimore Colts make their last playoff appearance before relocation.
- 1984: Colts controversially relocate from Baltimore to Indianapolis under Robert Irsay.
- 1987: Colts win their first AFC East division title in Indianapolis.
- 1995: Colts reach the AFC Championship Game, falling one step short of the Super Bowl.
- 1997: Robert Irsay passes away, and his son Jim Irsay becomes the principal owner.
- 1998: Colts draft Peyton Manning as the first overall pick, marking the beginning of a new era.
- 2006: Colts win Super Bowl XLI, led by Peyton Manning and coach Tony Dungy.
- 2008: Lucas Oil Stadium opens as the new home of the Colts.
- 2010: Colts make another Super Bowl appearance but lose to the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLIV.
- 2012: Colts draft Andrew Luck as the first overall pick, beginning a new chapter after Manning’s departure.
- 2014: Carlie Irsay-Gordon temporarily assumes leadership when Jim Irsay is suspended.
- 2018: Andrew Luck leads the team back to the playoffs, signaling a rebound year.
- 2019: Andrew Luck abruptly retires, shaking the franchise’s future plans.
- 2025: Jim Irsay dies at age 65, with ownership transitioning to his daughters Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson.
Who Owns Indianapolis Colts: Major Shareholders
The Indianapolis Colts remain a family-owned franchise. Following Jim Irsay’s passing in 2025, ownership is divided equally among his three daughters. Each holds 33.3% of the team, making them co-owners with equal financial stakes. While their ownership percentages are identical, their roles and influence differ based on responsibilities and visibility.
- The Colts are one of the few NFL teams with uninterrupted family ownership for over five decades.
- Equal ownership shares (33.3% each) ensure that no single member can independently overrule decisions, although Carlie Irsay-Gordon, as chairwoman, holds operational leadership.
- The family’s ownership approach blends business management, philanthropy, and community engagement, making them highly active in both the league and Indianapolis.
| Shareholder | Percentage Ownership | Role/Title | Key Responsibilities & Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carlie Irsay-Gordon | 33.3% | Principal Owner & Chairwoman | Leads franchise decisions, represents Colts in NFL ownership meetings, oversees business strategy and football operations. |
| Casey Foyt | 33.3% | Co-Owner | Provides ownership oversight, involved in philanthropy and community-related activities, equal voting rights in family decisions. |
| Kalen Jackson | 33.3% | Co-Owner | Focuses on community engagement and charitable programs, strengthens Colts’ ties with Indianapolis, equal say in ownership matters. |
Carlie Irsay-Gordon – 33.3%
Carlie Irsay-Gordon owns 33.3% of the Colts and serves as the principal owner and chairwoman. Her equal share gives her the same financial stake as her sisters, but her leadership role gives her more authority in practice. Carlie oversees major business operations, represents the Colts in NFL ownership meetings, and is the final decision-maker on high-level matters.
Her blend of equal ownership and leadership makes her the most influential figure in the Colts’ ownership group.
Casey Foyt – 33.3%
Casey Foyt also holds 33.3% of the Colts franchise. Her equal share ensures she has the same financial and legal authority in ownership as her sisters. While she maintains a lower public profile, Casey plays a steady role in business oversight and philanthropic work connected to the team.
Her equal stake gives her veto power in family decisions, ensuring balance and shared control.
Kalen Jackson – 33.3%
Kalen Jackson owns the remaining 33.3% of the Colts. Like her sisters, her equal share grants her identical ownership rights. Kalen is heavily involved in community engagement, using her stake and influence to strengthen the Colts’ relationship with Indianapolis.
She is often seen leading charitable initiatives and public programs. Her ownership ensures the family maintains a strong cultural and local presence alongside business control.
Indianapolis Colts Ownership History
The Indianapolis Colts’ ownership story spans more than seven decades, shaped by bold moves, family legacy, and generational transitions. From the founding of the franchise in Baltimore to its current stewardship under the Irsay sisters, each chapter in ownership has influenced the team’s direction and identity.
| Owner(s) | Period of Ownership | Percentage Stake | Role/Title | Key Contributions & Legacy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carroll Rosenbloom | 1953 – 1972 | 100% | Founder & First Owner | Founded the Baltimore Colts, oversaw three NFL championships (1958, 1959, 1968), built early dynasty. |
| Robert Irsay | 1972 – 1997 | 100% | Owner | Acquired franchise by swapping Rams ownership, moved team from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984, ensured franchise stability. |
| Jim Irsay | 1997 – 2025 | 100% | Owner & CEO | Youngest NFL owner at takeover, drafted Peyton Manning, won Super Bowl XLI (2007), built Lucas Oil Stadium (2008). |
| Carlie Irsay-Gordon | 2025 – Present | 33.3% | Principal Owner & Chairwoman | Represents Colts at NFL ownership meetings, oversees business and football operations. |
| Casey Foyt | 2025 – Present | 33.3% | Co-Owner | Focuses on family legacy, philanthropy, and supports key organizational decisions. |
| Kalen Jackson | 2025 – Present | 33.3% | Co-Owner | Leads community initiatives, strengthens ties with Indianapolis, equal say in ownership matters. |
Carroll Rosenbloom Era (1953–1972)
The Colts were founded in 1953 when Carroll Rosenbloom established the Baltimore Colts by acquiring the defunct Dallas Texans franchise. Under Rosenbloom, the Colts quickly rose to prominence, winning NFL championships in 1958, 1959, and 1968. His leadership solidified the Colts as one of the NFL’s first true dynasties.
Robert Irsay Acquisition (1972–1997)
In 1972, businessman Robert Irsay acquired the Colts in a landmark deal by swapping ownership of the Los Angeles Rams with Rosenbloom. Robert Irsay’s tenure was marked by one of the most controversial moves in sports history—the relocation of the Colts from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984.
Despite backlash in Baltimore, the move provided the franchise with long-term stability in Indianapolis. Robert remained the owner until his death in 1997.
Jim Irsay Era (1997–2025)
When Robert Irsay passed away in 1997, ownership of the Colts transitioned to his son, Jim Irsay. Jim became the youngest NFL owner at the time and quickly established himself as a strong figure in the league.
His era brought unprecedented success to the Colts, highlighted by drafting Peyton Manning in 1998, winning Super Bowl XLI in 2007, and building Lucas Oil Stadium in 2008. Jim was known for his passionate, hands-on leadership style and remained the owner until his death in May 2025.
Transition to the Irsay Sisters (2025–Present)
After Jim Irsay’s passing in 2025, ownership transitioned to his three daughters: Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. Each inherited an equal 33.3% stake in the franchise. Carlie was named principal owner and chairwoman, taking on the role of representing the team at NFL meetings and guiding major business and football decisions.
Casey and Kalen continue to support as co-owners, focusing on philanthropic and community initiatives while maintaining equal control.
Irsay Family Net Worth
The Indianapolis Colts are valued at $5.9 billion as of September 2025, placing them among the top franchises in the NFL. This valuation forms the foundation of the Irsay sisters’ billionaire status.
After Jim Irsay’s passing, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson each inherited a one-third ownership stake, making them equal co-owners of the team and instant billionaires. Their personal fortunes are not only tied to the Colts’ market value but also to the family’s inheritance, investments, and philanthropic influence.
Combined Net Worth of the Irsay Family
Together, the Irsay sisters’ equal shares in the Colts amount to approximately $5.9 billion.
This makes the Irsay family one of the wealthiest ownership groups in the NFL. Beyond the team, the family estate includes real estate holdings, family trusts, and other financial assets inherited from Jim Irsay’s $4+ billion fortune prior to his death in 2025. The sisters’ collective wealth secures the Colts’ long-term stability as a family-run franchise.
Carlie Irsay-Gordon Net Worth
Carlie Irsay-Gordon, the principal owner and chairwoman, holds a one-third stake in the Colts valued at approximately $1.97 billion. She is the most public face of the team and represents the franchise at NFL ownership meetings. In addition to her financial position, Carlie plays a vital leadership role, overseeing both business and football operations. Her wealth is largely tied to her ownership stake, but she also benefits from the family trust and inherited assets.
Casey Foyt Net Worth
Casey Foyt’s one-third stake in the Colts is also valued at around $1.97 billion. While she remains less involved in daily football operations than Carlie, she actively contributes to the family’s philanthropic and charitable efforts. Her wealth is almost entirely Colts-based, but she shares in the inheritance of her father’s estate. Casey’s position ensures she maintains equal voting power in family decisions related to the franchise.
Kalen Jackson Net Worth
Kalen Jackson, like her sisters, owns one-third of the Colts with an estimated value of $1.97 billion. She has carved out a unique role by leading community engagement and philanthropic initiatives for the organization. Kalen’s influence extends beyond financial holdings, as she focuses on the Colts’ public image and relationship with Indianapolis. Her wealth comes not only from ownership but also from her share of the broader Irsay inheritance.
Other Income Sources and Assets
Although the majority of the sisters’ wealth is tied to the Colts, the Irsay family also benefits from trust funds, real estate, and diversified investments. Jim Irsay had previously accumulated wealth through both the franchise and personal ventures, much of which transferred to his daughters.
The family owns multiple properties, including residences in Indianapolis and other U.S. locations, as well as investment portfolios that support their billionaire status.
Philanthropy and Influence
A defining characteristic of the Irsay family wealth is its impact on philanthropy. The sisters continue their father’s legacy of charitable giving, particularly in the fields of mental health, community development, and addiction recovery initiatives. Kalen Jackson, in particular, spearheads many of these programs, ensuring the wealth is used for both business growth and social good.
Comparison With Other NFL Owners
With a combined franchise valuation of $5.9 billion, the Irsay sisters collectively rank among the wealthiest ownership groups in the NFL.
Their personal fortunes, each near $2 billion, place them behind mega-owners like Jerry Jones (Dallas Cowboys) and Stan Kroenke (Los Angeles Rams) but ahead of many single-stake minority owners. Their equal ownership structure is unique, as most NFL franchises are controlled by a single dominant figure rather than evenly divided siblings.
Indianapolis Colts Net Worth
The Indianapolis Colts are valued at $5.9 billion as of September 2025, a figure that reflects decades of growth, strong market positioning, and the enduring impact of family ownership. This valuation places the Colts among the most valuable franchises in the NFL, showcasing the financial strength of the team beyond the football field.
Revenue Streams
The team generates income through multiple channels:
- Game-day revenues: Ticket sales, parking, and concessions at Lucas Oil Stadium remain a cornerstone.
- Media rights: A significant portion of revenue comes from the NFL’s national television and streaming deals, which continue to rise.
- Sponsorships and partnerships: Corporate sponsorships with local and global brands add to the financial strength of the franchise.
- Merchandising and licensing: Sales of Colts-branded merchandise worldwide contribute to long-term brand value.
Historical Growth in Net Worth
The franchise’s valuation has risen dramatically over the decades:
- In 1984, after the relocation from Baltimore, the Colts were valued at less than $80 million.
- By the early 2000s, with Peyton Manning at quarterback and Lucas Oil Stadium in development, valuations exceeded $500 million.
- In 2010, the Colts crossed the $1 billion mark, reflecting stadium revenues and consistent playoff success.
- In 2020, the team’s value rose to around $3 billion amid growing NFL media rights deals.
- In 2025, the valuation has nearly doubled again to $5.9 billion.
| Year | Franchise Valuation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $1.95 billion | Strong brand after Peyton Manning era, Andrew Luck emerging as franchise QB. |
| 2016 | $2.25 billion | NFL-wide revenue growth; Colts remain a stable mid-market team. |
| 2017 | $2.40 billion | Despite struggles on the field, franchise value grows with TV deals. |
| 2018 | $2.65 billion | Andrew Luck’s return and playoff appearance boosts excitement and value. |
| 2019 | $2.75 billion | Luck’s sudden retirement impacts momentum, but franchise value holds steady. |
| 2020 | $3.00 billion | National media rights deals and NFL revenue-sharing increase valuations. |
| 2021 | $3.25 billion | Expansion of sponsorships and continued league-wide growth. |
| 2022 | $3.80 billion | Post-pandemic recovery; Colts’ brand remains strong in Indianapolis. |
| 2023 | $4.35 billion | NFL valuations surge; Lucas Oil Stadium continues to host high-profile events. |
| 2024 | $5.10 billion | Growth fueled by rising broadcasting deals and team stability. |
| 2025 | $5.90 billion | Colts reach record valuation; among the top 10 most valuable NFL franchises. |
Lucas Oil Stadium and Market Impact
Lucas Oil Stadium, which opened in 2008 at a cost of $720 million, is a central driver of the Colts’ valuation. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 67,000 and features a retractable roof and state-of-the-art amenities, making it one of the NFL’s most versatile venues.
It not only provides a premier home field for the Colts but also attracts high-profile events such as the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four, Big Ten Football Championship, concerts, and conventions. Each event boosts local tourism and contributes millions annually to both the team and Indianapolis’ economy.
The Colts benefit from being the flagship NFL team in a dedicated midwestern market with no direct professional football competition.
This allows for strong brand loyalty in central Indiana and surrounding states, which translates into stable ticket sales and a committed fan base. The partnership between the Colts and the City of Indianapolis also ensures long-term financial benefits, as the stadium remains a key regional economic driver.
Comparison With Other NFL Teams
At $13 billion, the Dallas Cowboys remain the undisputed leader in franchise value. Their worth is more than double that of the Indianapolis Colts, driven by unmatched brand recognition, global sponsorship deals, and revenue from AT&T Stadium. Compared to the Colts’ $5.9 billion, the Cowboys operate on an entirely different financial level.
The New England Patriots are valued at around $9 billion, placing them well above the Colts by more than $3 billion. Decades of dominance under Bill Belichick and Tom Brady built a lasting brand that continues to fuel ticket sales, merchandise, and broadcasting strength even after their legendary quarterback’s departure.
The Los Angeles Rams sit at approximately $10.5 billion, again far ahead of Indianapolis. Their prime Los Angeles market, combined with SoFi Stadium and major media exposure, ensures they operate in the top echelon of NFL valuations. In comparison, the Colts trail by over $4 billion, highlighting the market advantage enjoyed by Los Angeles teams.
The San Francisco 49ers, valued at $8.6 billion, also surpass the Colts significantly. With deep roots in California, a history of Super Bowl victories, and a massive tech-driven fan base in the Bay Area, the 49ers’ brand power translates directly into financial strength. The Colts, while strong in a dedicated midwestern market, remain nearly $3 billion behind.
The Colts’ $5.9 billion valuation secures their place among the NFL’s most valuable franchises, but it also underscores the gap between mid-market teams and the financial giants of the league. Their worth is impressive, yet still well short of the multi-billion-dollar juggernauts dominating larger markets.
Brand Value and Community Impact
Beyond financial numbers, the Colts’ worth is deeply tied to their brand equity and community role. The team maintains one of the most loyal fan bases in the league, rooted in Indianapolis’ identity since the 1984 relocation. The Colts are not only a sports team but also a symbol of the city’s national recognition as a professional sports hub.
The Irsay family has heavily invested in philanthropic programs, particularly in mental health awareness, addiction recovery, education, and youth sports development. These initiatives strengthen the Colts’ relationship with their community, creating goodwill that enhances their long-term brand value. Sponsorships with major corporations also benefit from this strong public image, ensuring the Colts remain a desirable partner for local and national businesses.
Indianapolis Colts Leadership
The Colts’ leadership is organized around ownership, front‐office executives, and football operations. Since Jim Irsay’s death in May 2025, there has been a formal transition. The new structure balances family ownership roles with experienced professional management. Key figures include the Irsay sisters, the general manager, and the head coach.
Owner & CEO – Carlie Irsay-Gordon
Carlie Irsay-Gordon became the principal owner and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in 2025, following her father’s death. Her role makes her the chief decision‐maker for both business and football matters.
She had been involved with the franchise in different capacities prior, such as organizing brand initiatives and participating in NFL committees. In her new capacity, Carlie handles league relations, major sponsorship and deal approvals, and the overall strategic direction for the Colts. She also represents the team publicly, including in owner meetings and community engagements.
Owners with Executive Roles – Casey Foyt & Kalen Jackson
- Casey Foyt serves as Owner & Executive Vice President. Her duties include overseeing internal operations, assisting in executive leadership decisions, helping guide business and financial planning, and maintaining continuity as part of the Irsay family’s management team.
- Kalen Jackson is Owner & Chief Brand Officer as well as President of the Indianapolis Colts Foundation. She leads the franchise’s branding, marketing strategy, fan engagement, and community programs. She also oversees philanthropic efforts through the Colts Foundation, particularly mental health initiatives and local outreach.
General Manager – Chris Ballard
Chris Ballard has been the General Manager since 2017. He is responsible for player personnel decisions—drafts, trades, free agency, scouting—and overall roster construction.
In 2025, Ballard continues to hold the role, indicating confidence from new owners in his ability. He also coordinates with the coaching staff to shape team identity. Under his management, the Colts have had mixed on‐field results; fans and leadership expect him to build upon the team’s foundation to reach the playoffs and compete for division titles.
Head Coach – Shane Steichen
Shane Steichen is the Head Coach as of 2025. This is his third season in that role. Steichen leads the coaching staff, game planning, player development, and in‐game decision-making.
He works closely with Ballard and the owners on setting performance expectations. With new ownership, there is interest in measuring how well he can deliver consistent success.
Supporting Front Office & Organizational Structure
The Colts have an Assistant General Manager and a set of directors overseeing player personnel, scouting (both college and pro), and football administration. These positions support Ballard by evaluating talent, managing the salary cap, and handling contract negotiations.
On the business side, leadership includes executives focused on brand, marketing, fan experience, operations, and foundation work. Kalen Jackson leads brand and foundation; other executives report into Carlie’s CEO role. This ensures that the operations off the field match the performance on it.
Decision-Making Dynamics
Many major decisions require coordination among the owners (Carlie, Casey, Kalen). Even though Carlie is CEO, the family ownership structure ensures that the sisters share input on strategy, financial investments, and organizational direction.
Chris Ballard and Shane Steichen work operationally under the oversight of ownership, but are given autonomy in their areas (football operations for Ballard; game execution and player coaching for Steichen). There is a clear expectation from ownership for accountability and results.
Recent Leadership Initiatives & Changes
After Jim Irsay’s death in May 2025, the Colts officially confirmed in June that Carlie, Casey, and Kalen would take on expanded leadership roles according to a long-planned succession. Carlie as CEO/principal owner; Casey as EVP; Kalen as Chief Brand Officer & head of the Colts Foundation.
Even with the ownership change, the Colts retained Chris Ballard as GM and Shane Steichen as head coach for the 2025 season. That continuity signals the new leadership’s desire for stability while expecting improvement.
Final Words
The Indianapolis Colts remain a family-owned NFL team under the leadership of Jim Irsay. From their early days in Baltimore to their successful years in Indianapolis, ownership has been central to shaping the team’s identity. Today, the Colts continue to build on their legacy with strong leadership and a dedicated fan base. Understanding who owns Indianapolis Colts provides insight into how tradition and family legacy shape the modern NFL.
FAQs
Who is the new owner of the Colts?
The new principal owner of the Indianapolis Colts is Carlie Irsay-Gordon, who became the team’s controlling owner and CEO in 2025 after the passing of her father, Jim Irsay.
Who are the owners of the Indianapolis Colts?
The franchise is owned by the Irsay family, specifically Jim Irsay’s three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. Carlie serves as the principal owner and CEO, while her sisters share ownership and executive responsibilities.
Who are the Colts’ new owners?
The Colts’ new owners are Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. Carlie has majority control and oversees daily operations, while Casey and Kalen hold significant stakes and leadership roles.
How did the Colts’ owner pass away?
Jim Irsay, the longtime Colts owner, passed away in May 2025 due to reported health complications. His death ended his more than two-decade tenure as principal owner of the franchise.
Who inherited the Colts?
Jim Irsay’s ownership of the Colts was inherited by his three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—in accordance with family succession plans.
How many guitars does Jim Irsay own?
Jim Irsay was famous for his passion for music and rare collectibles. By 2025, he had amassed a collection of more than 500 guitars, many of them historically significant instruments once played by iconic rock musicians.
Did Robert Irsay move the Colts to Indianapolis?
Yes. Robert Irsay, Jim Irsay’s father, moved the Colts franchise from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984. The move, executed overnight, remains one of the most dramatic and controversial relocations in NFL history.
When were the Colts founded?
The Colts were originally founded in 1953 as the Baltimore Colts. They later moved to Indianapolis in 1984 under Robert Irsay’s ownership.