Who is Josh Harris? Washington Commanders nearing deal with billionaire new owner
The Washington Commanders will soon have a new owner. The storied NFL franchise is nearing a deal to be sold for about $6 billion to a group led by billionaire Josh Harris, according to multiple reports.
This will end the decades-long tenure of Dan Snyder, who received much criticism for a slow response to outcry over the team's former name and was also the subject of a sexual assault investigation.
After much speculation Amazon mogul Jeff Bezos was interested in buying the team, he did not submit a bid Wednesday.
The Commanders will now enter a new era under the Harris group. The investment group includes businessman Mitchell Rales and NBA legend Magic Johnson.
What is Josh Harris' net worth?
According to Forbes, Harris is worth $6 billion. A majority of his wealth comes from his stake in Apollo Global Management, which he founded in 1990 with two other billionaires. In 2021, he stepped down from a formal role with the firm, but maintains a 6% stake in the company.
What other teams does Josh Harris own?
Harris is the founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, under which he is part owner and managing partner of the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and the NHL's New Jersey Devils. He also has an ownership stake in the Premier League's Crystal Palace and the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers.
Who is Mitchell Rales?
Rales will be part of the Commanders' ownership group if the deal goes through. He is worth $5.7 billion, according to Forbes, and co-founded leading technology and innovation firm Danaher with his brother, Steven, in 1984. Rales received his bachelor's of arts and science from Miami University in Ohio and now resides in Maryland with his wife. He is also an art philanthropist who serves as the president of the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. Last month, he donated $1.9 billion to the Glenstone Museum, which he co-founded.
Where did Josh Harris go to college?
Harris has a master's degree from Harvard Business School and a bachelor's of science in economics from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. He now serves on the board of both institutions.
Is there another Josh Harris in the NFL?
The Los Angeles Chargers' long snapper is also named Josh Harris. He joined the team for the 2022 season after 10 years with the Atlanta Falcons. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2021.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Who is Josh Harris? Washington Commanders potential new owner near deal