The Larry H. Miller Family has acquired a controlling interest in MLS side Real Salt Lake and NWSL’s Utah Royals from David Blitzer and Ryan Smith’s Smith Entertainment Group for approximately $600 million. This deal includes the majority stake in Real Salt Lake Holdings, which also encompasses MLS Next Pro side Real Monarchs, RSL Academy, America First Field, Zions Bank Stadium, and the Zions Bank Training Center.
Blitzer will retain a minority stake in the teams, while Smith has sold his interest in Real Salt Lake Holdings. The acquisition marks the Miller family’s entry into soccer ownership, following their successful tenure as owners of the NBA’s Utah Jazz from 1985 to 2020.
In a statement, Steve Starks, CEO of the Larry H. Miller Company, expressed the family’s commitment to building on the legacy and community-driven values established by previous ownership groups. The partnership with Blitzer emphasizes the shared commitment to “building championship teams in a values-based way.”
MLS Commissioner Don Garber welcomed the news, praising the Millers’ long-standing commitment to community and youth sports. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman also expressed her support for the new ownership group, highlighting their demonstrated commitment to building sport and community.
Key figures will include Steve Miller as chairman and governor for Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals FC, with David Blitzer serving as alternate governor. The acquisition is seen as a significant milestone in women’s soccer in Utah, with the potential to elevate fandom and growth for the Royals FC.
Source: https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/44732641/real-salt-lake-utah-royals-sold-miller-family-jazz-600-million