The New York Yankees are a Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise based in the Bronx, New York City, USA. Established in 1903, the Yankees are one of the most successful and iconic sports franchises in the world, with 27 World Series championships, the most in MLB history. The team is part of the American League East Division and plays its home games at Yankee Stadium, which opened in 2009.
Known for its rich legacy, global fanbase, and legendary players like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, and Derek Jeter, the Yankees are not only a powerhouse in baseball but also a major sports brand valued at over $7 billion (2024 estimate).
Ownership Status of the Yankees
The Yankees are a privately owned sports franchise. The team is controlled by the Steinbrenner family, who have owned the franchise since 1973, when George M. Steinbrenner III led a group of investors to purchase the team from CBS for $10 million.
Today, ownership remains with the Steinbrenner family, primarily through Yankee Global Enterprises, the holding company for the team.
Major Owners
| Owner / Entity | Role / Stake | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hal Steinbrenner | Managing General Partner / Chairman | Took control after his father’s passing; oversees daily operations. |
| Hank Steinbrenner (late) | Former Co-Chairman | Passed away in 2020; previously co-led with Hal. |
| The Steinbrenner Family | Majority Owners | Holds controlling interest through Yankee Global Enterprises. |
| Minority Partners | Small stake holders | Include investors tied to Yankee Global Enterprises and YES Network. |
Note: The Yankees are not publicly traded; ownership is consolidated under the Steinbrenner family trust and Yankee Global Enterprises.
Key Shareholder Highlights
- Hal Steinbrenner is the primary figure in control, serving as Managing General Partner since 2008 and as Chairman since 2010.
- The Steinbrenner family trust ensures long-term family control, making them one of the few dynastic ownership families in major U.S. sports.
- Yankee Global Enterprises also has partnerships with other ventures, including a stake in the YES Network and joint ownership of New York City FC (MLS) with City Football Group.
Recent Developments in Ownership
- After the passing of George Steinbrenner in 2010, control transitioned fully to his children, primarily Hal Steinbrenner.
- In 2020, the death of Hank Steinbrenner left Hal as the undisputed head of the franchise.
- As of 2025, there have been no major shifts in ownership, and the Steinbrenner family remains committed to retaining control.
FAQs
1. Who is the current owner of the Yankees?
The Yankees are owned by the Steinbrenner family, with Hal Steinbrenner serving as the Managing General Partner and Chairman.
2. Is the Yankees team publicly traded or privately owned?
The Yankees are privately owned through Yankee Global Enterprises, controlled by the Steinbrenner family.
3. Who founded the ownership legacy of the Yankees?
The Steinbrenner era began in 1973, when George M. Steinbrenner III purchased the team from CBS.
4. Has the ownership changed recently?
No significant changes. The team remains under the Steinbrenner family, with Hal Steinbrenner leading since the late 2000s.
5. Do the Yankees have any other business interests?
Yes. The Yankees co-own New York City FC (MLS) with City Football Group and have strong ties to the YES Network.