It was initially reported that Walmart heir Rob Walton has purchased the Denver Broncos franchise for $4.5 billion.
However, ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter said that there had been no favorites from the second round of bidding.
But the delay was for nothing as Walton, his daughter Carrie, and son-in-law Greg Penner became the new owners of the storied squad.
A new day for the #Broncos. $4.65B. https://t.co/H8GurnI9N6
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 8, 2022
NFL Network national insider Ian Rapoport revealed that the final price is around $4.65 billion.
It’s the highest amount forked out for any major sporting team in the United States.
It surpasses the $2.35 billion David Tepper paid in 2018 to own the Carolina Panthers.
From here, franchise prices will continue to go up as teams and potential buyers refer to the deal done between the Walton-Penner family and the Pat Bowlen Trust.
Broncos President and CEO Joe Ellis said, “While this purchase and sale agreement is pending approval from the NFL’s finance committee and league ownership, today marks a significant step on the path to an exciting new chapter in Broncos history.”
Meanwhile, Walton revealed that aside from his family, Ariel Investments CEO Mellody Hobson will also join the ownership group.
He added, “We look forward to earning the confidence and support of the NFL as we take the next step in this process.”
The Waltons Have Near Monopoly Of Colorado Sports Franchises
Purchasing the Broncos adds to the family’s ownership of major sporting teams.
Stan Kroenke and his wife, Ann Walton Kroenke, own the NBA’s Denver Nuggets and NHL’s Colorado Avalanche.
It’s uncertain if they are targeting to get the Colorado Rockies which is currently owned by Richard and Charles Monfort.
But regardless of their next move, Broncos fans should celebrate this development together with the fact that they have a team that should make the playoffs.
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