Gayle Benson isn’t just the owner of the New Orleans Saints, she’s also one of the richest women in sports. With an estimated net worth of $7.9 billion, Benson has transformed her inheritance into a multi-franchise empire that includes both the NFL’s Saints and the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans. Here’s a full breakdown of her fortune, how she built it, and how she compares to other NFL owners.
Gayle Benson’s current net worth in 2026
According to Forbes, Gayle Benson’s net worth currently sits at $7.9 billion, making her one of the wealthiest figures in professional sports. She is consistently ranked among the richest NFL team owners and is widely recognized as one of the most powerful women in American sports.Her wealth comes almost entirely from ownership of her franchises, along with other business investments she has overseen since inheriting her late husband’s empire in 2018.Benson inherited her fortune following the death of her husband, Tom Benson, who was the longtime owner of the Saints and Pelicans. While the inheritance gave her full ownership of both franchises, she has actively maintained and expanded their value through smart management and leadership.Under her oversight:The New Orleans Saints have remained a consistent playoff contender in the NFL.The New Orleans Pelicans have grown in value as the NBA expands nationally and globally.These franchises form the backbone of her $7.9 billion net worth.
The value of the Saints and Pelicans in her wealth
Franchise valuations make up the majority of Benson’s wealth:FranchiseEstimated Value (2025–2026)New Orleans Saints (NFL)~$3.6 billionNew Orleans Pelicans (NBA)~$1.5 billionWhen compared to other NFL owners by wealth:Benson is among the top five richest owners, alongside David Tepper (Panthers), Shahid Khan (Jaguars), and Steve Ballmer (Clippers owner in the NBA/NFL crossover).While many NFL owners’ net worth comes from diversified investments, Benson’s is highly concentrated in her sports franchises, making her influence over team operations particularly direct.Gayle Benson’s net worth of $7.9 billion reflects both her inheritance and her careful management of two high-profile professional sports franchises. As the Saints and Pelicans continue to grow in value, Benson’s wealth and influence are likely to expand further, cementing her place among the most prominent figures in American sports today.Beyond her net worth, Benson is known for her influence in professional sports:She was recognized by Forbes as one of the most powerful women in sports.She has guided both the Saints and Pelicans through major organizational and cultural initiatives.Her leadership has been praised for balancing business success with community impact in New Orleans.She is a rare example of a female owner managing multiple major league teams, standing out in a league dominated by male ownership.Also read – Nikki Bella and Cooper DeJean dating rumors: how it all started and where things stand