Chelsea co-owner nets Lakers in record £7.45bn deal
UK-linked consortium led by TWG Global CEO Mark Walter has secured a controlling stake in the Los Angeles Lakers at a £7.45bn valuation, marking the highest-ever valuation for a sports team.
Walter, who also holds a controlling interest in Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers and is part of the ownership group of Chelsea FC, has now taken majority control of the Lakers following an agreement with the Buss family.
The Buss family had held a majority stake since 1979 and retained ownership through a family trust after the death of Jerry Buss in 2013.
Walter, who initially acquired a 20% stake in the Lakers in 2021, has strengthened his portfolio of high-profile sports investments across the US and UK.
His role in the ownership of Chelsea has come during a significant period of transition for the Premier League club following its sale in 2022.
The Lakers’ $10bn (£7.45bn) valuation surpasses that of the Boston Celtics, who were sold for $6.1 billion (£4.5bn) earlier this year. The deal reflects rising valuations across global sport, with increased media rights deals and private capital investment driving growth in both the US and UK markets.
Jeanie Buss is expected to remain in place as team governor under the new structure.
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