Owning a sports franchise can bring immense prestige, but it can also come with intense scrutiny. In fact, over the years, some team owners have found themselves embroiled in scandals that tarnished their reputations and forced them to sell the team. Here are 10 sports owners who became infamous for their controversies.
Jerry Richardson (Carolina Panthers)
Jerry Richardson sold the Panthers in 2018 after allegations of sexual harassment and workplace misconduct emerged. Then, on his way out, the NFL also fined Richardson $2.75 million.
Robert Sarver (Phoenix Suns and Mercury)
In 2022, an investigation revealed Robert Sarver’s pattern of racist, misogynistic, and inappropriate behavior during his ownership of both the Suns and Mercury. Under immense pressure from both teams and their fanbases, Sarver sold both franchises.
George Steinbrenner (New York Yankees)
In 1990, George Steinbrenner was banned from baseball for paying a gambler to investigate player Dave Winfield. However, despite this little hiccup, he returned as owner of the Yankees.
Jeffrey Loria (Miami Marlins)
Jeffrey Loria faced criticism for dismantling the Marlins’ roster with controversial trades and prioritizing profits over team success. Not to mention, his tenure also included disputes over public funding for the team’s stadium, which alienated fans.
Marge Schott (Cincinnati Reds)
Marge Schott was suspended by the MLB after offensive and racist remarks, including praise for Adolf Hitler, became public. In fact, her behavior forced her to sell the team in 1999.
Frank McCourt (Los Angeles Dodgers)
Frank McCourt’s highly publicized divorce and financial mismanagement led to turmoil within the Dodgers organization. Because of the chaos, the MLB initially took control of the team, but it was later sold to a new ownership group in 2012.
James Dolan (New York Knicks)
It’s safe to say James Dolan’s tenure as Knicks owner has been rife with controversy. Not only has he been criticized for his abrasive interactions with fans, but a sexual assault lawsuit was filed against him in January 2024.
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Eddie DeBartolo Jr. (San Francisco 49ers)
Former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo Jr. pled guilty to failing to report an extortion attempt in a Louisiana casino bribery case back in 1998. He was then fined $1 million and suspended by the NFL for a year.
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Donald Sterling (Los Angeles Clippers)
Donald Sterling’s fall from grace in 2014 was widely publicized after recordings of his racist remarks surfaced. The scandal led to a lifetime ban from the NBA and forced him to sell the Clippers.
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Daniel Snyder (Washington Commanders)
Daniel Snyder faced numerous scandals during his tenure as owner of the Washington Commanders. In fact, the accusations included everything from fostering a toxic workplace to sexual harassment allegations and financial misconduct. Finally, in 2023, he agreed to sell the team.
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