Tom Brady gave his opening remarks as the new part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders after a lengthy approval process from a panel of owners.
Following a long hold on his ownership bid, Ian Rapoport reported that Brady was granted official approval by his now co-owners in the NFL.
Hours after his ownership wishes were finally granted, Brady released his first statement as an NFL team owner.
‘I’m incredibly humbled and excited to have been unanimously approved as an owner of the Las Vegas Raiders,’ Brady wrote. ‘Throughout my NFL career, I’ve learned that at its core, football is a game of teamwork, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
‘The Raiders franchise, and the city of Las Vegas embody these same values, and I’m honored to become part of that story.’
Tom Brady released his first statement on his Raiders ownership hours after getting approval
The seven-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback initially agreed to become a limited partner of the Raiders in May 2023 – months after calling time on his legendary playing career.
His deal to take a 10 percent stake in the organization – which he is splitting down the middle with business partner Tom Wagner – was held up over the last 17 months amid concerns from other NFL owners over his 10-year, $375million deal with Fox.
‘Football has been part of my entire life growing up in the Bay Area and in so many ways, my football life and journey has come full circle,’ he continued. ‘I love the sport, I love my teammates, coaches, and the fans in every organization I’ve been part of.
‘Sports brings us together in a way nothing else can. I grew up on the field, and it’s a blessing to know I’ll be involved in the greatest league in the world for the rest of my life.’
Brady’s role as the lead NFL analyst for Fox Sports was one of the points of contention in the approval process. His position with the network was also the basis of the limits he’s faced with as a co-owner.
Bleacher Report Gridiron reported that Brady is prohibited from accessing another team’s facility, witnessing practice, and attending broadcast production meetings virtually and in person.
The ex-quarterback initially agreed to become a limited partner of the Raiders in May 2023
Brady thanked Raiders owner Mark Davis and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday
Brady owns stakes in three Vegas teams; the Raiders (NFL), Aces (WNBA) and Night Owls (MLP)
Brady is also not permitted to criticize game officials and other clubs. Furthermore, he is subject to the NFL’s gambling and anti-tampering policies.
‘I’d like to thank Mark Davis for welcoming me into his family, and the tireless work he’s done to help build on the organization that so many fans know and love today. Also thank you to Commissioner Goodell for his support as well as all the NFL owners that supported my dream – I’m forever grateful,’ Brady added. ‘I’d also like to thank my partner Tom Wagner, Don Yee, Jim Gray, Alex Spiro, and Larry Delson as they have been instrumental in helping me achieve this incredible milestone.’
‘I’m eager to contribute to the organization in any way I can, honoring the Raiders’ rich tradition while finding every possible opportunity to improve our offering to fans… and most importantly, WIN football games,’ he closed.
The Raiders add another valuable item to Brady’s impressive business portfolio.
The future NFL Hall of Famer owns stakes in the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA, Birmingham City in the EFL Championship, Las Vegas Night Owls in the Major League Pickleball, and the E1 Series in Electric boat racing.
