The Chicago White Sox are a privately owned professional baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The team competes in Major League Baseball (MLB) as part of the American League Central Division. Founded in 1900, the White Sox are among the oldest franchises in MLB history.
The franchise is known for its strong connection with Chicago’s South Side and its loyal fan base. Over the years, the team has won three World Series championships in 1906, 1917, and 2005. The White Sox play their home games at Guaranteed Rate Field, which has been their home stadium since 1991. As of 2025, the franchise continues to operate under stable and long-term ownership.
Ownership Status of the Chicago White Sox
There is no single public shareholder ownership of the Chicago White Sox because the team is not publicly traded. Instead, the franchise is owned by a private ownership group, with Jerry Reinsdorf holding the controlling interest.
The team is governed under the rules of Major League Baseball, which requires ownership approval for any major sale or transfer. While a small group of investors holds minority interests, all major decisions remain under the authority of the controlling owner.
Major Owners and Ownership Structure
| Owner / Entity | Ownership Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jerry Reinsdorf | Controlling Owner & Chairman | Purchased the team in 1981 and holds decision-making authority |
| Minority Partners | Limited partners | Passive investors with no operational control |
Note: Exact ownership percentages are not publicly disclosed, which is common for privately owned MLB franchises.
About Chicago White Sox Owner Jerry Reinsdorf
Jerry Reinsdorf is a well-known American businessman and one of the longest-serving owners in professional sports. He became the controlling owner of the Chicago White Sox in 1981, when he purchased the team for around $19 million. Since then, he has played a central role in shaping the franchise’s direction, focusing on long-term stability rather than frequent ownership changes. Under his leadership, the White Sox achieved one of their biggest milestones by winning the 2005 World Series, ending an 88-year championship drought. Reinsdorf is also recognized for his strong influence in Chicago sports, as he is the owner of the Chicago Bulls as well.
Jerry Reinsdorf Net Worth
As of 2024–2025, Jerry Reinsdorf’s net worth is estimated to be between $2.2 billion and $2.4 billion. His wealth primarily comes from his ownership stakes in major sports franchises, including the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Bulls, along with his background in investment and real estate ventures. Over the decades, the value of both franchises has increased significantly, contributing to his billionaire status. Despite his substantial net worth, Reinsdorf is known for a conservative business approach, prioritizing financial discipline and long-term franchise value over short-term spending.
Key Shareholder (Owner) Highlights
Jerry Reinsdorf acquired the Chicago White Sox in 1981 for approximately $19 million. Since then, he has remained one of the longest-tenured owners in Major League Baseball. Under his leadership, the franchise achieved one of its most historic moments by winning the 2005 World Series, ending an 88-year championship drought.
Reinsdorf is also known for emphasizing long-term financial stability rather than frequent ownership changes. His ownership approach has focused on controlled spending, infrastructure development, and maintaining consistent leadership at the executive level. Beyond baseball, he is also recognized as the owner of the Chicago Bulls, further cementing his influence in Chicago sports.
Recent Developments in Ownership
As of 2024–2025, there have been no confirmed changes in the ownership of the Chicago White Sox. Jerry Reinsdorf continues to serve as the controlling owner and chairman of the franchise.
Although Reinsdorf has occasionally spoken about long-term succession planning due to his age, no official sale, transfer, or ownership restructuring has been announced. Any future ownership change would require formal approval from MLB and would be publicly disclosed.
FAQs
1. Who is the current owner of the Chicago White Sox?
The Chicago White Sox are owned by Jerry Reinsdorf, who holds the controlling stake in the franchise.
2. Is the Chicago White Sox publicly traded?
No, the team is privately owned and does not trade on any stock exchange.
3. When did Jerry Reinsdorf buy the White Sox?
He purchased the team in 1981.
4. Are there other owners besides Jerry Reinsdorf?
Yes, there are minority partners, but they do not have decision-making power.
5. Has the ownership changed recently?
No, ownership has remained stable, with no confirmed changes as of 2025.