Who Is the Owner of the New England Patriots
Robert Kraft is the controlling owner of the New England Patriots. He purchased the franchise in 1994 for approximately $172 million, and the team is now valued at over $7 billion according to the latest Forbes NFL valuations. Kraft also controls the Patriots' home venue, Gillette Stadium, and related stadium management operations through the Kraft Group. Forbes profile
The Kraft Group is the private holding company that manages Robert Kraft's business interests. It oversees the Patriots, Gillette Stadium, and a portfolio of real estate, paper, packaging, and private equity investments. The company's structure allows Kraft to control the team while operating a diversified business empire across multiple industries. The Kraft Group
Robert Kraft's Net Worth and Business Portfolio
Robert Kraft's net worth is estimated at over $13 billion as of the latest Forbes real-time billionaires ranking. The majority of his wealth comes from the Kraft Group's ownership of the New England Patriots, Gillette Stadium, and a large private equity portfolio. His paper and packaging businesses, including International Forest Products, supply materials to major consumer brands worldwide.
Forbes Real-Time Net Worth
Forbes tracks Robert Kraft's net worth in real time based on stock prices, private company valuations, and public filings. His ranking among the richest Americans reflects the value of the Patriots franchise, the Kraft Group's real estate holdings, and the cash flow from his paper and packaging operations. Forbes billionaires list
Patriots Franchise Value
The New England Patriots are consistently ranked among the most valuable NFL teams. The franchise value has grown from the $172 million purchase price in 1994 to over $7 billion in the latest Forbes NFL team valuations. This growth is driven by strong ticket revenue, national television contracts, and the commercial appeal of the Gillette Stadium market.
Robert Kraft's NFL Ownership and Legal History
Robert Kraft has been the owner of the New England Patriots since 1994. Under his ownership, the team has won six Super Bowls, making it one of the most successful franchises in NFL history. Kraft also served as chairman of the NFL's Super Bowl Host Committee and has been a prominent figure in league governance and stadium development decisions.
Legal Issues and Resolutions
Robert Kraft faced legal charges in 2019 related to allegations of soliciting prostitution at a Florida spa. He pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct and completed a pre-trial diversion program. The resolution did not result in jail time or a felony conviction, and he continued as the owner of the Patriots without league suspension. NYT coverage
Stadium and Real Estate Operations
Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, is operated by Kraft-Exeter, a joint venture between the Kraft Group and the city of Foxborough. The stadium hosts Patriots games, major concerts, and events, generating significant revenue for the Kraft Group's hospitality and venue management divisions. The Kraft Group also manages a portfolio of commercial real estate properties across the United States.