Seattle, WA – Less than a month after securing a Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots, the Seattle Seahawks franchise is officially for sale, the team announced Wednesday. The move comes in accordance with the wishes of the late Paul G. Allen, Microsoft co-founder and long-time owner, who directed that his sports holdings be sold with proceeds benefiting philanthropic causes.
The sale process is being led by investment bank Allen & Company and law firm Latham & Watkins and is expected to continue through the 2026 offseason. The announcement marks the culmination of years of uncertainty following Allen’s death in 2018, during which his sister, Jody Allen, served as executor of his estate and oversaw the team.
The Seahawks’ valuation is projected to be substantial, potentially reaching between $7 billion and $10 billion. This figure places the potential transaction among the largest in NFL history, surpassing the $6.05 billion sale of the Washington Commanders in 2023. Sportico currently values the Seahawks at $6.59 billion, while ESPN analyst Adam Schefter suggests the Super Bowl win could push the franchise’s worth to as much as $10 billion.
Paul Allen purchased the Seahawks in 1997, a period when the franchise faced significant challenges. His ownership is widely credited with stabilizing the team and ultimately leading to its success, culminating in the Super Bowl XLVIII victory in 2014 and the recent Super Bowl LX win. Allen’s will stipulated that both the Seahawks and the Portland Trail Blazers (also owned by his estate) would eventually be sold, with all proceeds directed towards philanthropic endeavors.
The NFL requires a three-fourths vote from existing owners to approve any new controlling owner. The league’s commissioner, Roger Goodell, acknowledged the directive in Allen’s will during Super Bowl week, and denied reports of a $5 million fine related to the team’s ownership structure, stating that any such fine was being held in abeyance.
Several high-profile individuals and groups are expected to emerge as potential bidders. Jeff Bezos, a Seattle native, is considered a front-runner, having previously expressed interest in acquiring the Denver Broncos in 2022. Other names reportedly in the mix include Steve Ballmer, Howard Schultz, and Bill Gates. Speculation also includes the possibility of interest from Elon Musk or sovereign wealth funds.
The sale process allows for potential investors to leverage NFL rules permitting private equity firms to own up to 10% of the franchise. This could broaden the pool of potential buyers and potentially influence the final sale price.
The timing of the sale, so soon after a Super Bowl victory, is unusual in the modern era of the NFL. It presents a unique opportunity for a new owner to acquire a team at the peak of its performance and with significant brand momentum. However, it also introduces a degree of complexity, as the team navigates the sale process during the offseason and prepares for the upcoming season.
The Seahawks’ success on the field, combined with the philanthropic legacy of Paul Allen, is expected to attract significant interest from a diverse range of potential buyers. The outcome of the sale will not only determine the future ownership of a major NFL franchise but also have a substantial impact on the philanthropic landscape, as the proceeds are earmarked for charitable causes.
The formal commencement of the sale process signals a significant transition for the Seattle Seahawks, marking the end of an era defined by Paul Allen’s vision and commitment to the team and the community. The coming months will be crucial as the estate navigates the sale process and seeks a new owner who will carry forward the legacy of this iconic franchise.
