The Los Angeles Chargers are a team with a rich history and a passionate fan base that stretches across generations. From their early beginnings in the American Football League to their current home in Los Angeles, the franchise has experienced dramatic relocations, iconic players, and defining moments. Behind the scenes, ownership has played a vital role in shaping the team’s identity and future. For fans curious about the business side of football, understanding who owns Los Angeles Chargers reveals the story of family control, leadership challenges, and the financial power driving the franchise today.
Los Angeles Chargers Profile
The Los Angeles Chargers began as part of the American Football League (AFL) in 1959. Their original owner was Barron Hilton, heir to the Hilton Hotels empire. He was awarded the franchise in Los Angeles. The team played its first season in Los Angeles in 1960, before moving to San Diego in 1961.
Over time, the Chargers have become an established NFL franchise. Key features today include playing in SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, sharing with the Rams. As of 2025, their head coach is Jim Harbaugh, general manager Joe Hortiz, and they are owned by the Spanos family.
Founders and Key Individuals
Barron Hilton: Barron Hilton founded the Chargers franchise in 1959. He selected the name “Chargers” through a fan contest and influenced early identity — colors, uniform, logo. Under his leadership in the AFL era, the Chargers became known for high-scoring offense and competitive success.
Sid Gillman: Sid Gillman was named the first head coach of the Chargers. He became general manager as well. Gillman built one of the earliest pass-heavy offenses and was influential in shaping the AFL’s competitive teams.
Spanos Family: After several ownership changes, Alex Spanos bought majority control in 1984. Later, his son Dean Spanos assumed operational leadership. In 2025, the Spanos family remain the controlling owners. Major decisions, including relocation and stadium share, have come under their tenure.
Major Milestones
- 1959: Barron Hilton is awarded the AFL franchise that becomes the Chargers.
- 1960: Team plays first season in Los Angeles; begins AFL competition and enjoys immediate success, winning the AFL Western Division.
- 1961: Moves to San Diego (Balboa Stadium), due in part to competition with Rams in L.A.; begins long San Diego era.
- 1963: Wins the AFL Championship, defeating the Boston Patriots.
- 1967: Moves into new stadium in San Diego (then called San Diego Stadium, later Jack Murphy Stadium, then Qualcomm) to accommodate growing fan base and improve facilities.
- 1978-1985: Under coach Don Coryell, the “Air Coryell” offense becomes famous. Multiple division titles, high passing yards, playoff appearances.
- 1994: The Chargers win the AFC Championship and make their first and only Super Bowl appearance (Super Bowl XXIX), losing to the San Francisco 49ers.
- 2000s–2010s: Periods of inconsistency. Many playoff misses; changes in coaching and management; efforts to secure new stadium facilities in San Diego.
- 2017: The Chargers relocate back to Los Angeles after 56 seasons in San Diego. Begin playing at temporary venues and then move into SoFi Stadium in 2020.
- 2020: SoFi Stadium opens; the Chargers share the stadium with the Los Angeles Rams.
- 2024: Chargers finish the season 11-6 under the first full season of head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz. They return to the playoffs (though lose in the Wild Card round).
- 2025: Coaching staff includes Jim Harbaugh, Greg Roman (offense), Jesse Minter (defense); team begins season with an eye toward overcoming defensive struggles, strengthening run game, and maintaining competitive status in AFC West.
Who Owns Los Angeles Chargers: Top Shareholders
The ownership of the Los Angeles Chargers in 2025 shows a mix of family control, minority investors, and new private equity involvement. Although the Spanos family remains the controlling owner, recent transactions have shifted parts of their equity to outsiders. These changes reflect both strategic financial moves and the resolution of internal family disputes. Below are the key people and entities involved, and how much influence and control each holds.
Below is a breakdown of the largest shareholders and their roles in the franchise as of September 2025:
| Shareholder / Entity | Ownership Stake | Role & Influence | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanos Family (Dean, Michael, Alexis Spanos Ruhl) | ~61% | Controlling owners with full decision-making power | Dean Spanos serves as chairman; family oversees football and business operations |
| Tom Gores | ~27% | Minority owner with no operational control | Purchased stake in 2024; also owner of the Detroit Pistons |
| Arctos Sports Partners | ~8% | Limited partner, financial investor only | Private equity firm approved by the NFL in 2025; no say in football or daily operations |
Spanos Family – 61%
The Spanos family continues to hold majority control of the Chargers, with Dean Spanos acting as chairman and controlling owner. Alongside his siblings, Michael Spanos and Alexis Spanos Ruhl, Dean oversees the strategic direction, financial management, and long-term planning of the franchise. Despite internal family disputes in recent years, the core Spanos ownership remains intact.
Their 61% ownership stake ensures full decision-making authority, meaning no other shareholder can outvote them on football or business matters. This makes the Spanos family the ultimate governing force behind the Chargers, including coaching hires, stadium deals, and league negotiations.
Tom Gores – 27%
Tom Gores, billionaire businessman and owner of the Detroit Pistons, acquired a 27% stake in the Chargers in 2024. This purchase came after Dea Spanos Berberian, Dean’s sister, agreed to sell her 24% share along with a small additional portion from other family members.
Gores is a minority partner with no operational control over the Chargers. He does not influence football decisions or daily business operations but benefits financially from the team’s growing valuation and revenue. His investment also helped resolve a long-standing Spanos family ownership dispute.
Arctos Sports Partners – 8%
In 2025, the NFL approved private equity investments into franchises, paving the way for Arctos Sports Partners to buy an 8% stake in the Chargers. Arctos is a private equity firm specializing in sports team ownership and investments.
As a limited partner, Arctos does not participate in management decisions. Their role is strictly financial, providing capital in exchange for long-term equity growth. This sale reduced the Spanos family’s share slightly but left them with clear majority control.
Los Angeles Chargers Ownership History
The Los Angeles Chargers have had a fascinating ownership journey since their founding in 1959. From the early days under Barron Hilton to the long-standing stewardship of the Spanos family, the franchise’s control has shifted only a few times, but with lasting impact. Each ownership transition marked a new chapter in the team’s business and football strategy.
Below is a breakdown of how ownership evolved from its founding to the current structure in 2025:
| Period / Year | Owner(s) | Percentage Owned | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1959–1966 | Barron Hilton | 100% | Founder of the franchise, awarded AFL charter; moved team from Los Angeles (1960) to San Diego (1961); oversaw 1963 AFL Championship. |
| 1966–1984 | Multiple investors (including Gene Klein and other partners at different points) | Various minority and majority splits | Ownership shifted among groups of investors; financial instability and lack of long-term planning characterized this era. |
| 1984–1990s | Alex Spanos | Initially 60%, later increased to ~97% | Purchased majority stake in 1984 for $48.3M; brought financial stability and long-term family ownership. |
| 1990s–2020 | Alex Spanos & Spanos Family (Dean, Michael, Alexis, Dea) | ~97% | Alex stepped back due to health; Dean Spanos assumed control; family ownership fully consolidated. |
| 2020–2024 | Spanos siblings (Dean, Michael, Alexis, Dea) | Shared ~97% | Internal family disputes over control; Dea Spanos Berberian sought to sell her share, leading to legal conflict. |
| 2024–2025 | Spanos Family (Dean, Michael, Alexis) & Tom Gores | Spanos ~70%, Gores ~27% | Tom Gores, owner of the Detroit Pistons, bought Dea’s 24% stake plus small additional shares; became largest minority owner. |
| 2025–Present | Spanos Family, Tom Gores, Arctos Sports Partners | Spanos ~61%, Gores ~27%, Arctos ~8% | Arctos Sports Partners purchased 8% limited partner stake under new NFL private equity rules; Spanos family remains controlling owner. |
The Barron Hilton Era (1959–1966)
The Chargers were founded in 1959 by Barron Hilton, son of Hilton Hotels founder Conrad Hilton. Hilton was awarded one of the original American Football League (AFL) franchises and played the team’s first season in Los Angeles in 1960. He then moved the team to San Diego in 1961, where it stayed for more than five decades. Hilton presided over the franchise during its 1963 AFL Championship, the only league title in team history.
Ownership Changes and Hilton’s Exit (1966–1984)
By 1966, Barron Hilton sold his stake in the Chargers. The team then passed through a series of ownership changes, including small groups of investors. For much of the 1970s and early 1980s, the Chargers were run by these groups but lacked the financial stability to make the franchise as strong as other NFL teams.
The Alex Spanos Purchase (1984)
In 1984, real estate developer Alex Spanos purchased a controlling 60% stake in the Chargers for $48.3 million. Over time, he expanded that control to nearly 97% of the franchise. Under Spanos’s leadership, the team gained financial security and stability. His acquisition marked the beginning of the Spanos family dynasty that still governs the Chargers today.
Transition to Dean Spanos (1990s–2010s)
As Alex Spanos grew older and his health declined, day-to-day control of the team shifted to his son, Dean Spanos, in the 1990s. Dean took over as chairman and controlling owner, handling team operations, stadium negotiations, and football decisions. This era included the Chargers’ Super Bowl appearance in 1995 and the controversial relocation from San Diego back to Los Angeles in 2017.
Internal Family Dispute (2020–2024)
After Alex Spanos’s passing, ownership was shared among his four children: Dean, Michael, Alexis, and Dea. However, disagreements over financial management led to a legal battle in 2020. Dea Spanos Berberian sought to force a sale of the team, arguing the family could no longer manage the franchise effectively. This dispute created uncertainty over the Chargers’ ownership until it was resolved in 2024.
Sale to Tom Gores (2024)
In late 2024, a resolution was reached when Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores purchased Dea Spanos Berberian’s 24% stake, along with a small additional portion from other Spanos family members, giving him 27% of the team. This sale ended the legal conflict and allowed the Spanos family to retain majority control.
Entry of Arctos Sports Partners (2025)
In 2025, the NFL approved private equity sales for the first time. Arctos Sports Partners, a private equity firm specializing in sports investments, purchased an 8% limited partner stake in the Chargers. This deal slightly reduced the Spanos family’s majority but still left them with about 61%, ensuring full control.
Current Ownership in 2025
As of 2025, the Chargers are majority-owned by the Spanos family, with Dean Spanos as chairman. Tom Gores is the largest minority shareholder with 27%, while Arctos Sports Partners owns 8%. This structure keeps the team under family control while welcoming outside investment for financial growth.
Dean Spanos Net Worth
Dean Spanos is the controlling owner and chairman of the Los Angeles Chargers. He inherited much of the family business and grew the value of the franchise. His wealth partly comes from real estate and partly from the rising value of the Chargers. In 2025, his financial standing reflects both his personal stake and the broader family holdings.
Family Net Worth vs Personal Net Worth
- The Spanos family as a whole is estimated to be worth around $2.4 billion in 2025. PFSN+2PFSN+2
- Dean Spanos’s personal net worth is lower, estimated at about $1 billion. Celebrity Net Worth+2PFSN+2
The difference comes from the fact that much of the wealth is shared among family members and held in family-owned businesses like real estate ventures.
Key Sources of Wealth
- Ownership of the Chargers
Dean’s majority control over the Chargers is a major asset. The franchise’s valuation has increased significantly over the years, especially after the move back to Los Angeles and the development of SoFi Stadium. College Transitions+2PFSN+2 - Real Estate & Development (A.G. Spanos Companies)
The Spanos family made its initial fortune via real estate. The A.G. Spanos Companies, especially in apartment development, remain a foundational wealth source. Dean benefits from this legacy. Wikipedia+2PFSN+2 - Other Investments & Minority Ownership Stakes
Beyond the Chargers and real estate, there are smaller stakes, possibly shared stock, trust assets, and minority investments. Also, the family structure causes wealth to be divided among siblings and trusts. PFSN+1
Value Growth & Recent Transactions
- The sale of a 27% stake of the Chargers to Tom Gores in 2024 provided liquidity and reduced part of the family’s stake. Reuters+1
- In 2025, the Chargers’ valuation had risen to about $5.1 billion. This means even minority shares are worth a lot. College Transitions+2Los Angeles Business Journal+2
- Because Dean Spanos retains majority control, the increasing franchise value improves his net worth significantly. PFSN+2PFSN+2
Financial & Public Ranking
- Among NFL owners, the Spanos family is ranked with one of the more valuable ownership groups, though not among the very top richest. PFSN+2College Transitions+2
- Dean’s personal fortune (≈ $1 billion) puts him in a different tier than the family’s total wealth. It reflects his direct control, actions, and responsibilities with the team.
Los Angeles Chargers Net Worth
The Los Angeles Chargers have steadily grown into one of the NFL’s most valuable franchises. Their relocation to Los Angeles, entry into one of the world’s biggest sports markets, and tenancy at the state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium have all fueled this rise. As of September 2025, the Chargers are valued at an estimated $6 billion, underscoring the financial strength of the team and its prominent place in the league.
| Year | Franchise Valuation (US$ Billion) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $1.5 billion | Based in San Diego; valuation limited by smaller market and older stadium. |
| 2016 | $1.9 billion | NFL valuation rises as LA relocation discussions progress; franchise value increases. |
| 2017 | $2.1 billion | Official relocation to Los Angeles announced; future stadium revenues anticipated. |
| 2018 | $2.3 billion | First full season in LA (StubHub Center); market size boosts team worth despite small venue. |
| 2019 | $2.6 billion | Construction of SoFi Stadium progresses; sponsorship deals increase valuation. |
| 2020 | $2.9 billion | COVID-19 pandemic impacts revenues but long-term stadium deal supports growth. |
| 2021 | $3.5 billion | SoFi Stadium opens; Chargers benefit from shared revenues with Rams. |
| 2022 | $4.2 billion | NFL media deals expand; Los Angeles presence strengthens franchise appeal. |
| 2023 | $5.1 billion | Chargers move into top half of NFL valuations; brand value grows. |
| 2024 | $5.6 billion | Stake sale to Tom Gores boosts liquidity; NFL approves private equity rules. |
| 2025 | $6.0 billion | Franchise valuation hits $6 billion, reflecting strong market, stadium revenues, and global NFL growth. |
Key Drivers of Net Worth
Being based in Los Angeles, the second-largest media market in the country, provides the Chargers with advantages that smaller-market teams cannot match. Access to millions of fans, global media exposure, and corporate partnerships all contribute to the team’s strong valuation.
Media Rights and Revenue Sharing
The NFL’s lucrative national media and streaming deals are a core source of income for the Chargers. Each team receives an equal share of these contracts, ensuring consistent growth in revenue regardless of individual performance on the field.
Stadium and Facilities
SoFi Stadium is one of the most advanced and expensive sports venues in the world. As co-tenants with the Los Angeles Rams, the Chargers benefit from shared operational costs while generating revenue from premium seating, luxury suites, naming rights, and sponsorships. This boosts their bottom line significantly.
Brand Value and Merchandise
The Chargers’ brand has become iconic, thanks to their lightning bolt logo and famous powder-blue uniforms. These elements resonate strongly with fans and drive merchandise sales. Recent success in growing their Los Angeles fan base and attracting younger audiences has strengthened the team’s brand appeal even further.
Revenue and Operating Income
In 2025, the Chargers are expected to generate around $600 million in annual revenue from ticket sales, broadcasting, and sponsorships. Their operating income is estimated at $110 million, showing that the franchise is not only valuable on paper but also profitable in operations.
Year-Over-Year Growth
The Chargers’ valuation has seen remarkable growth in recent years. From around $5.1 billion just a few years ago, the team’s net worth has risen to $6 billion in 2025. This upward trend reflects the broader growth of the NFL but also highlights the advantages of playing in Los Angeles and the revenues tied to SoFi Stadium.
Comparison with Other NFL Franchises
With an estimated valuation $6 billion, the Los Angeles Chargers are ranked in the upper half of all NFL franchises in terms of financial worth. While not at the very top of the list, their placement highlights the strength of their market, brand, and stadium presence in Los Angeles.
In comparison, the Dallas Cowboys remain the most valuable franchise in the league, valued at over $12 billion. The Cowboys benefit from unmatched branding power, a loyal national fan base, and ownership of AT&T Stadium, which generates record revenues. The Chargers, while highly valuable, still have room to grow before reaching this level.
The New York Giants and the Los Angeles Rams also outrank the Chargers in terms of valuation. Both franchises leverage massive media markets and strong histories to attract sponsorships and high ticket sales. The Rams, in particular, share SoFi Stadium with the Chargers, but their valuation is higher due to stronger fan engagement and their recent Super Bowl victory, which boosted their brand significantly.
Despite these differences, the Chargers hold an advantageous position. Their value is well above the league’s median and continues to rise steadily each year. This upward trend reflects the overall strength of the NFL as a business and signals that the Chargers could move further up the rankings if their on-field performance improves and their fan base continues to expand in Los Angeles.
Who Controls the Los Angeles Chargers?
While the Los Angeles Chargers have multiple shareholders, the question of control rests on who makes the critical decisions about the franchise. Control involves not just ownership percentage, but also management authority, voting rights, and the ability to influence long-term strategy. In 2025, control of the Chargers remains firmly with the Spanos family, though new minority investors play a supporting role.
| Name | Position | Area of Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Dean Spanos | Controlling Owner & Chairman | Oversees ownership decisions, strategic direction, and overall franchise leadership |
| A.G. Spanos | President of Business Operations | Manages business operations, marketing, sponsorships, fan engagement, and stadium deals |
| John Spanos | President of Football Operations | Oversees football operations, GM, scouting, player personnel, and salary cap strategy |
| Tom Telesco | General Manager | Handles roster building, trades, free agency, and NFL Draft strategy |
| Jim Harbaugh | Head Coach | Leads team performance, coaching staff, and on-field strategy |
| Fred Maas | Vice Chairman of the Board | Advises on strategic planning, real estate, and stadium-related initiatives |
| Jeanne Bonk | COO & CFO | Manages financial operations, budgeting, revenue streams, and organizational efficiency |
The Spanos Family as Controlling Owners
The Spanos family has maintained majority control of the Chargers since 1984, when Alex Spanos first purchased the franchise. Today, his son Dean Spanos serves as the controlling owner and CEO. The family collectively holds around 61% ownership of the team, giving them more than enough voting power to steer decisions. Despite minority investors joining in recent years, the Spanos family still holds ultimate authority.
Dean Spanos – Controlling Owner and CEO
Dean Spanos is the central decision-maker for the franchise. As controlling owner, he represents the team in NFL matters, votes on league issues, and oversees both the business and football operations. His leadership has been critical in major decisions such as the relocation to Los Angeles, the move into SoFi Stadium, and managing shareholder disputes within the family.
The Role of A.G. and John Spanos
Dean’s sons, A.G. Spanos (President of Business Operations) and John Spanos (President of Football Operations), play significant roles in day-to-day control. A.G. manages the corporate side, including sponsorships, marketing, and revenue, while John oversees player contracts, roster management, and team performance strategy. Their involvement ensures the family retains operational control as well as ownership authority.
Minority Shareholders’ Influence
In 2024, billionaire Tom Gores acquired a 27% stake in the Chargers, becoming the largest minority shareholder. While Gores does not have voting control, his financial involvement gives him influence in ownership discussions. Additionally, Arctos Sports Partners purchased an 8% stake in 2025 under new NFL rules allowing private equity investment. However, both remain non-controlling partners, with no authority to override the Spanos family decisions.
Final Words
The journey of the Los Angeles Chargers reflects more than just wins and losses on the field. It is also a story of legacy, vision, and family stewardship. From Barron Hilton’s founding in 1959 to Alex Spanos’s investment in the 1980s, and now Dean Spanos guiding the franchise into the future, ownership has been a constant force in shaping the team’s path. For fans wondering who owns Los Angeles Chargers, the answer lies in a dynasty of ownership that continues to influence not just the team’s direction but also its place in NFL history.
FAQs
What is the Los Angeles Chargers name origin?
The name “Chargers” was chosen by Barron Hilton, the team’s original owner, in 1959. Hilton liked the name because fans would shout “Charge!” during games, and it tied well with his business interests, including credit cards and the “Charge It” slogan.
Who is the Los Angeles Chargers owner?
As of 2025, the Los Angeles Chargers are owned by the Spanos family. Dean Spanos serves as the controlling owner and chairman, with his sons A.G. and John Spanos playing key roles in business and football operations.
Who bought 27 percent of the Chargers?
In 2020, members of the Spanos family sold a 27% stake in the Chargers to a consortium of outside investors, allowing liquidity for family members who wanted to sell. Despite this sale, Dean Spanos maintained controlling ownership and authority over team operations.
Do the Hiltons still own the Chargers?
No, the Hilton family no longer owns any part of the Chargers. Barron Hilton was the original owner in 1960, but he sold his majority stake in 1966.
Does Tom Brady own the Chargers?
No, Tom Brady does not own the Los Angeles Chargers. While he has pursued minority ownership opportunities in other sports franchises, he has no ownership ties to the Chargers.
Who owns SoFi Stadium?
SoFi Stadium, where the Chargers and Rams play, is owned by Stan Kroenke, who is also the owner of the Los Angeles Rams. The Chargers are tenants with a long-term lease agreement but do not own the stadium.
Are the Rams and Chargers owned by the same person?
No, they are not. The Rams are owned by Stan Kroenke, while the Chargers are owned by the Spanos family. They share SoFi Stadium under a joint-use agreement but are separate franchises with different owners.
How much is the Spanos family worth?
The Spanos family’s net worth is estimated at around $2.4 billion in 2025. Their wealth comes largely from real estate development, construction, and the Chargers franchise itself.
Who bought the Chargers originally?
The Chargers were originally bought by Barron Hilton, the hotel magnate, in 1959. He was awarded the franchise as part of the newly formed American Football League (AFL).
How much did Alex Spanos pay for the Chargers?
In 1984, Alex Spanos purchased a majority stake of the Chargers for $70 million. Over time, he and his family acquired nearly complete ownership of the franchise.