CNBC’s Most Valuable Sports Empires 2026: Here’s how the world’s top 20 stack up

June 26, 2026 - 11:39

CNBC's Michael Ozanian appeared on "Squawk Box" to break down the network's latest ranking of the most valuable sports empires in the world for 2026. The list, which tracks the top 20 sports organizations globally, shows a continued surge in valuations driven by massive media rights deals, global fan engagement, and stadium infrastructure investments.

Ozanian noted that the top spots remain dominated by American football and soccer franchises, with the Dallas Cowboys retaining the number one position. The Cowboys' valuation has crossed the $10 billion mark, fueled by their lucrative AT&T Stadium naming rights and a national fan base that rivals any team in professional sports. Close behind are European soccer giants like Real Madrid and Manchester United, which have seen their values climb due to expanding international markets and digital content strategies.

A key trend in this year's ranking is the rise of Formula 1 teams. With the sport's exploding popularity in the United States, teams like Ferrari and Mercedes have entered the top 20 for the first time. Ozanian explained that F1's shift toward a more entertainment-focused model, combined with the success of the Netflix series "Drive to Survive," has dramatically increased team valuations.

The list also highlights the growing influence of private equity in sports ownership. Several teams on the list have recently sold minority stakes to investment firms, providing cash for stadium upgrades and player acquisitions. Ozanian emphasized that sports empires are no longer just about winning games; they are complex media and entertainment businesses that generate billions in annual revenue.

The full ranking is available in the latest CNBC report, which includes detailed breakdowns of each team's revenue streams, debt levels, and growth projections.