NFL approves $6.05B sale of Commanders to Harris group from Dan Snyder

NFL owners have voted unanimously to approve the sale of the Washington Commanders from the Snyder family, to a group led by Josh Harris.

The Harris group is paying $6.05 billion, a record sum for a North American sports franchise. Snyder had owned the majority of the Commanders since 1999, and his family became the sole owners after he bought out his limited partners two years ago.

Harris, also the owner of the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and NHL’s New Jersey Devils and a partner with the Premier League’s Crystal Palace, leads a group of approximately 20 limited partners, including D.C.-area billionaire Mitchell Rales and basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, in the purchase. An agreement in principle was reached earlier this year, while other sticking points in the deal, including indemnification for Snyder and the league pertaining to outstanding investigations and potential litigation, have been sorted.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell called Harris a “great addition” to the NFL, pointing to his record in business, sports and his work in communities.

Shortly after the news of the sale’s approval, the NFL released the findings of a report by attorney Mary Jo White and fined Snyder $60 million, following an investigation into workplace misconduct as well as a referral to the Federal Trade Commission for alleged financial improprieties by the then-owner.

“The conduct substantiated in Ms. White’s findings has no place in the NFL,” Goodell said in a statement. “We strive for workplaces that are safe, respectful and professional. What Ms. Johnston experienced is inappropriate and contrary to the NFL’s values.”

The new era of the Commanders kicks off as the 2023 season begins, with Washington hosting the Arizona Cardinals at FedExField.