A moment of celebration and the beginning of a new chapter unfolded as Tom Brady walked into the Las Vegas Raiders facility as the franchise’s newest co-owner.
After a long wait for his ownership bid, Brady received official approval from his now co-owners in the NFL on Tuesday.
The next morning, the seven-time Super Bowl champion received a warm welcome from employees as he arrived at the Raiders’ headquarters with majority owner Mark Davis.
In a video posted to the Raiders’ X account (Twitter), Brady is seen entering the glass doors wearing a gray top and black pants as he was received with a thunderous ovation. Members of the Raiders family filled the first three floors of the lobby to commemorate an important day in the story of their franchise.
Brady then took a moment to gather himself before returning the applause and hugging Davis, who was all smiles after the lengthy process to get Brady on board was finally given the green light.
Tom Brady received a warm welcome upon his arrival at the Raider facility on Wednesday
In a series of photos posted to the Raiders’ social media, Brady was seen speaking to the crowd through a microphone, although what he said has not been made public.
Hours after his ownership was made official, Brady released a statement, saying: “I am incredibly humbled and excited to have been unanimously approved as owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Throughout my NFL career, I have learned that football, at its core, is a game of teamwork, resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
“The Raiders franchise and the city of Las Vegas embody the same values, and I am honored to be a part of that story.”
The legendary quarterback initially agreed to become a limited affiliate of the Raiders in May 2023 — months after ending his storied playing career.
His deal to take a 10 percent stake in the organization — which he splits down the middle with business partner Tom Wagner — has been delayed for the past seventeen months due to concerns from other NFL owners about his 10-year, $375 million deal with Fox . .
Brady was joined by majority shareholder Mark Davis after his co-ownership bid was approved
Brady addresses the Raiders staff on his first day as co-owner of the Las Vegas franchise
Brady’s role as lead NFL analyst for Fox Sports was one of the points of contention in the approval process. His position at the network also informed the limitations he faced as co-owner.
Brady is prohibited from accessing another team’s facilities, witnessing practices and attending production meetings virtually and in-person.
Brady is also not allowed to criticize game officials and other clubs. Additionally, he is subject to the NFL’s gambling and anti-tampering policies.
“I want to thank Mark Davis for welcoming me into his family and for the tireless work he has done to help build the organization that so many fans know and love today. I would also like to thank Commissioner Goodell for his support, as well as all the NFL owners who supported my dream. I am forever grateful,” Brady’s statement continued. “I would also like to thank my partner Tom Wagner, Don Yee, Jim Gray, Alex Spiro and Larry Delson as they were instrumental in helping us reach this incredible milestone.”
Brady owns stakes in three Vegas teams; the Raiders (NFL), Aces (WNBA) and Night Owls (MLP)
The ex-quarterback initially agreed to become a limited partner of the Raiders in May 2023
On the field, the Raiders have struggled as they are 2-4 and fourth in the AFC West
“I would like to contribute to the organization in any way I can, honoring the rich tradition of the Raiders while finding every possible opportunity to improve our offering to fans… and most importantly, WINNING football games,” he concluded.
The Raiders add another valuable asset to Brady’s impressive business portfolio.
The future NFL Hall of Famer owns interests in the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA, Birmingham City in the EFL Championship, Las Vegas Night Owls in Major League Pickleball and the E1 Series in electric boat racing.
While Brady’s arrival in the front office is a cause for celebration, the Raiders are struggling on the field. Antonio Pierce’s team is 2-4 and fourth in the AFC West.
They will take on the Rams in LA on October 20th and close out the month by hosting Super Bowl Champions Kansas City on the 27th.
