The Pittsburgh Steelers are a privately owned professional football franchise in the National Football League (NFL), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. The team competes in the AFC North division and is one of the most successful franchises in league history, with six Super Bowl championships.
Founded in 1933 by Arthur Joseph “Art” Rooney Sr., the Steelers have grown into a symbol of stability and tradition within the NFL. The team has a dedicated global fan base known as the “Steeler Nation.” As of 2025, the franchise is led by Art Rooney II, who became team president in 2003 and later assumed principal ownership following his father Dan Rooney’s passing in 2017.
Ownership Status of the Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are not publicly traded. The franchise has remained under the Rooney family’s control since its founding in 1933. While the Rooney family retains majority ownership, there are several minority shareholders who hold small equity stakes in the franchise.
Major Shareholders
| Shareholder / Entity | Ownership Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Art Rooney II (Rooney Family) | Majority Ownership | Current principal owner and president; grandson of founder Art Rooney Sr. |
| Thomas Tull | Minority stake | Billionaire investor and film producer; acquired a stake in 2009. |
| Josh Harris & David Blitzer (status changing) | Small minority stake | Reported to be divesting their shares in 2024; previously held NFL stakes. |
Note: The Rooney family maintains controlling interest in the franchise, ensuring long-term continuity and stability.
Key Shareholder Highlights
- Art Rooney II is the principal owner and president, having inherited leadership after Dan Rooney’s death in 2017. He continues the family legacy established by his grandfather.
- Thomas Tull, founder of Legendary Entertainment, became a minority shareholder in 2009 and has been a strategic partner for the team.
- Josh Harris and David Blitzer, known for investments in multiple sports teams, were minority shareholders but began selling their stake in 2024.
The Rooney family’s majority control ensures that the Steelers remain one of the rare franchises with long-standing family ownership.
Recent Developments in Ownership
- In 2024, reports confirmed that Harris and Blitzer were preparing to sell their minority stakes.
- It was also speculated that Art Rooney II and Thomas Tull could expand their ownership share by acquiring those equity portions.
- Meanwhile, Daniel Martin Rooney, son of Art Rooney II, has taken visible roles in the franchise, suggesting a future generational transition within the Rooney family.
FAQs
1. Who is the current owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers?
The current owner is Art Rooney II, who serves as the principal owner and president of the franchise.
2. Is the Pittsburgh Steelers publicly traded or privately owned?
The team is privately owned, with majority control held by the Rooney family.
3. Who founded the Pittsburgh Steelers?
The franchise was founded in 1933 by Art Rooney Sr..
4. Has the ownership changed recently?
Yes. In 2024, minority stakeholders Josh Harris and David Blitzer began selling their shares, with speculation that Art Rooney II and Thomas Tull may expand their stakes.
Pittsburgh Steelers Official Site
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