In the high-stakes, male-dominated world of professional sports ownership, Gayle Benson stands as a towering and influential figure. As the proprietor of both the NFL's New Orleans Saints and the NBA's New Orleans Pelicans, she has not only safeguarded her late husband's legacy but has masterfully expanded it into a multi-billion dollar empire. With an estimated net worth of $7.9 billion, Benson is celebrated as one of the wealthiest and most powerful women in American sports today.
The Foundation of a $7.9 Billion Fortune
Gayle Benson's remarkable wealth journey is intrinsically linked to her inheritance, but her acumen has been the force multiplier. Following the passing of her husband, the renowned businessman Tom Benson, in 2018, she assumed full control of his sports and business holdings. While this transfer of ownership provided the foundation, Benson has been an active and strategic leader, ensuring both franchises not only retained their value but appreciated significantly.
According to the latest assessments from Forbes, her net worth in 2026 is firmly placed at $7.9 billion. This colossal figure primarily stems from the soaring valuations of her two flagship sports teams. Unlike many of her peers whose wealth is diversified across various industries, Benson's fortune is notably concentrated in these assets, giving her a uniquely direct and hands-on influence over their operations and future.
Breaking Down the Sports Empire: Saints and Pelicans Valuation
The core of Gayle Benson's financial portfolio is built on the bedrock of professional team valuations. The numbers for the 2025-2026 period paint a clear picture of her empire's worth.
- New Orleans Saints (NFL): Valued at approximately $3.6 billion. Under her stewardship, the Saints have maintained their status as a consistent and competitive force in the league, regularly contending for playoff berths.
- New Orleans Pelicans (NBA): Valued at around $1.5 billion. Benson has overseen the team's growth in lockstep with the NBA's explosive global expansion, enhancing its brand and financial standing.
Combined, these two franchises form the overwhelming majority of her $7.9 billion net worth, showcasing the immense value locked within successful sports franchises.
Where Gayle Benson Ranks Among NFL's Financial Elite
In the exclusive club of NFL owners, wealth is a common denominator, but Gayle Benson's position is exceptional. Her $7.9 billion net worth comfortably places her among the top five richest owners in the league. She stands shoulder-to-shoulder with financial heavyweights like David Tepper of the Carolina Panthers, Shahid Khan of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and even crosses sports leagues in comparison with figures like Steve Ballmer, owner of the NBA's LA Clippers.
This ranking is made more significant by the fact that she is one of the very few women to hold primary ownership of not one, but two major league teams. Her presence breaks the mould in a landscape traditionally dominated by male ownership, earning her recognition from Forbes as one of the most powerful women in sports.
Leadership Beyond the Balance Sheet
Gayle Benson's impact extends far beyond the impressive numbers on a financial statement. Her leadership has been pivotal in guiding both the Saints and Pelicans through significant organizational and cultural initiatives. She has been widely praised for her approach that marries sharp business strategy with a genuine commitment to community impact in New Orleans.
Her management style ensures the teams are not just commercial assets but integral parts of the city's social fabric. This balanced focus on profitability and civic responsibility has cemented her reputation as a respected and influential figure, both on and off the field and court.
Looking ahead, the trajectory for Gayle Benson's wealth and influence appears set for further growth. As the NFL and NBA continue to secure lucrative media rights deals and expand their international footprints, the valuations of the Saints and Pelicans are poised to climb. This potential appreciation will likely see Benson's $7.9 billion net worth increase, solidifying her enduring legacy as a pioneering and formidable force in the world of professional sports ownership.
