Find out about the owners of the Detroit Tigers, their net worth, source of wealth and ownership history of the franchise.
The Detroit Tigers are a household name in the MLB franchise. The Detroit-based team is part of the American League Central Division.
The Tigers also have a rich history in the MLB, having won four World Series titles. The team currently plays its home games at Comerica Park.
Who owns the Detroit Tigers?
The Detroit Tigers are owned by Christopher Ilitch, who has been the principal owner of the franchise since 2017. The Tigers have been managed by Ilitch Holdings since 1999.
Detroit Tigers ownership structure in a nutshell
Christopher Ilitch
Christopher Paul Ilitch is an American businessman and sports executive and (CEO) of Ilitch Holdings, Inc., which owns and manages companies and sports franchises including Olympia Entertainment, Little Caesars Pizza, MotorCity Casino Hotel, the Detroit Tigers (MLB), the Detroit Red Wings (NHL) and real estate holdings.
Net worth
Christopher Ilitch's net worth is around $2.4 billion, accrued from his earnings at Ilitch Holdings, Inc., through the ownership of companies and sports franchises.
Club Net Worth & Valuation
According to figures from Forbes, the Detroit Tigers are valued at $1.55 billion.
Ownership History
The Detroit Tigers have gone through a series of owners throughout its history. George Vanderbeck was the founder and first owner of the franchise in 1894.
George Vanderbeck (1894–1900)
James D. Burns (1901)
Samuel F. Angus (1902–1903)
William H. Yawkey (1904–1907)
Frank Navin (1908–1935)
Walter Briggs Sr (1935–1952)
Walter Briggs Jr (1952–1956)
Fred Knorr (1956–1960)
John Fetzer (1956–1983)
Tom Monaghan (1983–1992)
Mike Ilitch (1992–2017)
Christopher Ilitch (2017–present).
Founding Year
The Detroit Tigers were founded in 1894 as a member of the Western League. It was also a charter member of the American League in 1901, which ranks it as the oldest continuous franchise in the MLB.
Stadium Information
The Tigers currently play their home games at the Comerica Park located in Detroit, Michigan. It has a seating capacity of 41,083 and was opened in 2000.
Conference & Division
The Tigers are a member club of the American League Central Division.
Trophies & Achievements
The Tigers also have a rich history in the MLB, having won four World Series titles. They have also won multiple American League pennants.