As of 2024, Sheikh Mansour, the owner of Manchester City Football Club, is the wealthiest club owner in the world.
Sheikh Mansour's Wealth and Influence in Football
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a prominent member of the Abu Dhabi royal family and the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, possesses an estimated net worth of approximately 30 billion U.S. dollars. His significant wealth primarily stems from his vast investments across various sectors globally.
Through the Abu Dhabi United Group, Sheikh Mansour acquired Manchester City in 2008. This acquisition marked a pivotal moment for the club, leading to the formation of the City Football Group (CFG), which now encompasses a global network of football clubs. Under his ownership, Manchester City has undergone a remarkable transformation, achieving numerous successes in English football, including multiple Premier League titles, and a historic UEFA Champions League victory. His substantial financial backing has enabled the club to invest heavily in top-tier players, cutting-edge training facilities, and global brand development, significantly elevating its status in world football.
Other Notable Wealthy Club Owners
While Sheikh Mansour leads in terms of individual wealth, other billionaires also hold significant stakes in major football clubs, shaping the financial landscape of the sport. One such influential figure is Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Here's a look at the top club owners by net worth in 2024:
| Rank | Club Owner | Club(s) Owned/Stake | Estimated Net Worth (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sheikh Mansour | Manchester City | $30 billion |
| 2 | Sir Jim Ratcliffe | Manchester United (minority) | $26.6 billion |
Note: Net worth figures are estimates and can fluctuate.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the CEO of the chemicals company INEOS, is another formidable presence in club ownership. As of 2024, his estimated net worth is 26.6 billion U.S. dollars. In early 2024, Ratcliffe secured a minority stake in Manchester United, taking control of the club's football operations. His investment aims to revitalize the club's sporting fortunes and infrastructure, underscoring the vital role of immense wealth in driving the ambition and competitiveness of elite football teams.
The financial strength of these owners allows clubs to attract world-class talent, build state-of-the-art facilities, and expand their global appeal, directly influencing the sport's evolution and commercial success.
