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Top 20 Most Profitable Sports Teams of 2026

The list of the most profitable sports franchises in 2026 showcases some of the biggest names across different leagues, with the NFL and NBA standing out against the Premier League's global appeal. These teams earn from TV rights, sponsorships, ticket sales, and merchandise, often boosted by their on-field success.

Teams Ranked 20 to 11 by Operating Income and Value

  • 20. Houston Texans - Operating Income: $156 million, Value: $7.4 billion
  • 19. Chicago Bulls - Operating Income: $160 million, Value: $6 billion
  • 18. Los Angeles Lakers - Operating Income: $170 million, Value: $10 billion
  • 17. Arsenal - Operating Income: $173 million, Value: $3.4 billion
  • 16. Las Vegas Raiders - Operating Income: $179 million, Value: $7.7 billion
  • 15. New York Jets - Operating Income: $180 million, Value: $8.1 billion
  • 14. New York Giants - Operating Income: $181 million, Value: $10.1 billion
  • 13. New York Rangers - Operating Income: $182 million, Value: $4 billion
  • 12. Tottenham Hotspur - Operating Income: $184 million, Value: $3.3 billion
  • 11. Manchester United - Operating Income: $185 million, Value: $6.6 billion

Tied for 9th Place

  • Houston Rockets - Operating Income: $191 million, Value: $5.9 billion
The Rockets finished second in the Western Conference's Southwest Division in 2024/25 with a 52-30 record, primarily excelling on defense. Although they lost in the first playoff round after forcing a game seven against the Golden State Warriors, the season marked a return to the playoffs after a five-year absence. The acquisition of Kevin Durant has bolstered their offense alongside rising stars Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson, increasing fan interest and sponsorships.In 2025/26, they again posted a 52-30 record, finishing fifth in the Western Conference but exiting in the first round to the Los Angeles Lakers.
  • Toronto Maple Leafs - Operating Income: $191 million, Value: $4.4 billion
The Maple Leafs had a tough 2025/26 NHL season, ending with a 32–36–14 record and missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2016. They ranked eighth in the Atlantic Division and 15th in the Eastern Conference. Despite this setback, their history of 13 Stanley Cups keeps them among the top earning ice hockey franchises worldwide.

7th Place Tie

  • Philadelphia 76ers - Operating Income: $203 million, Value: $5.45 billion
The 76ers closed the 2025/26 regular season at 45-37, securing seventh in the Eastern Conference and fourth in the Atlantic Division. Tyrese Maxey led with 28.3 points per game, supported by Joel Embiid and Andre Drummond. Their playoff run ended with a sweep by the eventual champions, the New York Knicks.
  • Atlanta Hawks - Operating Income: $203 million, Value: $5 billion
Also falling to the Knicks in the playoffs, the Hawks finished the season as the sixth seed in the East under coach Quin Snyder. Though eliminated 4-2 in the first round, the Hawks were ranked in the NBA power rankings top 10 before the season, hinting at potential growth ahead.

6. New England Patriots

  • Operating Income: $222 million
  • Value: $9 billion
The Patriots bounced back in 2025, winning their division and delivering their best post-Brady era finish. Quarterback Drake Maye's MVP-level sophomore season gave the team a new star to rally around. The franchise enjoys a strong global following, including significant support in the UK.

5. Mercedes F1

  • Operating Income: $227 million
  • Value: $6 billion
Mercedes secured second place in the 2025 Constructors' Championship, far behind McLaren. British driver George Russell earned two Grand Prix wins and finished fourth in the Drivers' standings. Strong global branding and sponsorship deals have made the season financially rewarding. Both drivers, Kimi Antonelli and Russell, are leading the current season after 20 races.

Tied for 3rd Place

  • Los Angeles Rams - Operating Income: $244 million, Value: $10.5 billion
The Rams achieved a 12-5 record, placing second in the NFC West and making the playoffs as the fifth seed. They led the league offensively with 30.5 points per game but fell short of the Super Bowl, losing the NFC Championship to the Seattle Seahawks.
  • Edmonton Oilers - Operating Income: $244 million, Value: $10.5 billion
The Oilers reached their seventh straight playoff appearance but exited early in the first round, losing 4-2 to the Anaheim Ducks. Following this, they dismissed head coach Kris Knoblauch. Stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl continue to lead one of the NHL’s strongest offenses.

2. Golden State Warriors

  • Operating Income: $409 million
  • Value: $11 billion
The Warriors faced challenges during the 2025/26 season, losing Jimmy Butler to an ACL injury and finishing 10th in the Western Conference. After a play-in win against the Clippers, they were knocked out by the Phoenix Suns. This marked their first losing full season since 2011.

1. Dallas Cowboys

  • Operating Income: $629 million
  • Value: $13 billion
Despite a 7-9-1 record that kept them out of the playoffs for a second year running, the Cowboys remain the world’s most profitable sports team. Led by quarterback Dak Prescott’s prolific passing, their offense ranks among the league’s best, though defensive struggles have led to another coaching change.

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