Find out about the Tampa Bay Lightning ownership history.
The Tampa Bay Lightning is based in Tampa, Florida, and was founded in 1992, being one of the most competitive forces in the National Hockey League franchise.
The Tampa Bay Lightning is currently ranked as one of the most successful, having won three Stanley Cups.
Who owns the Tampa Bay Lightning?
The Tampa Bay Lightning National Hockey League franchise is owned by Vinik Sports Group, LLC.
Tampa Bay Lightning ownership history
Esposito/Kokusai Green Group
Esposito/Kokusai Green group was the early owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning NHL team after it won the expansion franchise for $50 million, led by Kokusai Green.
Art Williams
The ownership of the Tampa Bay Lightning changed hands as Art Williams took over control from the Esposito/Kokusai Green group for a fee that was reported to be $117 million.
William Davidson
Bill Davidson acquired the Tampa Bay Lightning from Art Williams for $115 million in 1999. This was his second attempt to take control of the team after the previous attempt was overshadowed by Art Williams's move to purchase the team.
Under the ownership of William Davidson, the Tampa Bay Lightning had two dream seasons (2002–2004), winning the divisional championship and the Stanley Cup, beating the Calgary Flames.
Oren Koules and Len Barrie
Oren Koules and Len Barrie became the new owners of the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2008 from Palace Sports and Entertainment, which was headed by William Morse Davidson (Bill).
Jeffrey Vinik
Oren Koules and Len Barrie later sold the team to Jeffrey Vinik.