49ers Sell Minority Stake at Record Valuation

The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to sell a 6.2% minority stake in the team at a record $8.5 billion valuation, with Vinod Khosla acquiring 3.1%, Byron Deeter 2.1%, and Will Griffith 1%. The sale, pending approval at the upcoming NFL owners' meeting in Minneapolis, has been recommended by the league's finance committee. This transaction reflects a growing trend of private equity and institutional investments in NFL teams, following recent minority stake deals in the Eagles, Bills, and Dolphins. The $8.5 billion price far surpasses recent Forbes and Sportico estimates. The deal is also expected to boost the 49ers' liquidity, potentially supporting a lucrative contract extension for quarterback Brock Purdy. The York family will retain about 91% control of the franchise.