Michael Bidwill, at 59 years old, stands as one of the wealthiest and most involved owners in the NFL, with a net worth of $1.4 billion. As the owner of the Arizona Cardinals, Bidwill has helped lead the organization through a series of successful seasons and strong community engagement. His journey in the football business is intertwined with his family’s long legacy in the sport, dating back to the 1930s. Despite an impressive family history, Michael carved out his own path, becoming a lawyer before joining the Arizona Cardinals in 1966 and eventually inheriting the team in 2019 after his father’s death. Let’s take a closer look at how Bidwill’s wealth and the success of his family have shaped his journey.
What Is Michael Bidwill’s Net Worth and How Did He Acquire It?
Michael Bidwill has a net worth of $1.4 billion, a significant figure that places him among the wealthiest owners in the NFL. His family’s involvement in football began in 1933 when Charles Bidwill, Michael’s grandfather, bought the Chicago Cardinals for just $50,000. Over the decades, the franchise has become one of the most valuable teams in the NFL, now worth an estimated $3.8 billion.
While Michael’s wealth is tied to his family legacy, his path to ownership is unique. Before becoming the owner of the Arizona Cardinals, Michael earned a law degree and worked as a federal prosecutor. His legal career lasted for six years before he officially joined the Cardinals organization as vice president and general counsel in 1966. His expertise in both law and business played a pivotal role in his rise within the franchise, ultimately succeeding his father Bill Bidwill as the team’s owner in 2019 after Bill passed away.
How Has the Bidwill Family Shaped the Arizona Cardinals’ Legacy?
The Bidwill family’s impact on the Arizona Cardinals is undeniable, with several generations involved in the franchise’s growth. Charles Bidwill, Michael’s grandfather, was the original figure behind the Cardinals’ rise, purchasing the team for a modest sum in 1933. However, Charles was no ordinary businessman. Prior to buying the Cardinals, he was a successful lawyer with ties to the infamous Chicago mobster Al Capone. Charles also had ownership stakes in other business ventures, including a racing stable and a printing company, which allowed him to build a solid financial foundation that would support the team’s future.
After Charles passed away, ownership of the team passed to his sons, Bill and Charles Jr. The brothers co-owned the Cardinals for a decade before Bill became the sole owner in 1972. Bill’s stewardship of the team was marked by a frugal approach, with the Cardinals’ employees often receiving some of the lowest salaries in the league. Despite these financial challenges, Bill made a few key adjustments that turned the team’s fortunes around. In 2008, the Arizona Cardinals won their first division title since 1975, followed by two more division championships in 2009 and 2015. Under Bill’s leadership, the team began to perform better both on the field and financially, setting the stage for Michael’s eventual takeover.
What Are the Cardinal’s Business and Financial Achievements Under Michael Bidwill’s Leadership?
When Michael Bidwill took over the Arizona Cardinals after his father’s passing, he continued the family tradition of making savvy business decisions. While the team has not won as many championships as some of the NFL’s top-tier teams, Michael has made the organization highly profitable. One of the key financial drivers for the Cardinals under his leadership has been the team’s stadium, formerly known as the University of Phoenix Stadium. The stadium generates an impressive $200 million annually, making it a significant asset for the team.
The business acumen that Michael inherited and honed has made the Arizona Cardinals one of the most profitable franchises in the NFL. The team benefits from hosting large events such as Super Bowls and concerts, as well as the revenue generated from their state-of-the-art facility in Glendale. This financial stability allows the team to invest in player development, stadium upgrades, and community outreach programs.
How Has Michael Bidwill Contributed to the Arizona Community?
Beyond the business and football aspects, Michael Bidwill has also made a significant impact in the Arizona community. His philanthropic efforts are a testament to his commitment to giving back, especially during times of crisis. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Arizona Cardinals made a generous donation of $100,000 to Local First Arizona, a nonprofit that supports local businesses. Additionally, the team’s State Farm Stadium became a vital vaccination site, hosting successful blood drives and becoming one of the country’s leading vaccination hubs.
The community-focused initiatives spearheaded by Michael reflect the values of his family. The Bidwills have always prioritized giving back, and under Michael’s leadership, the Arizona Cardinals have been an integral part of the local landscape, providing support to those in need during times of difficulty.
What’s Next for Michael Bidwill and the Arizona Cardinals?
As Michael Bidwill enters the next chapter of his ownership of the Arizona Cardinals, the future looks bright for the team. With a growing net worth, solid business ventures, and an unwavering commitment to the Arizona community, Michael is poised to continue his family’s legacy in the NFL. As the team looks toward future seasons, the Cardinals will undoubtedly benefit from Michael’s leadership and his ability to adapt to the ever-changing sports landscape.
Bidwill’s wealth, coupled with his dedication to both his family’s history and the success of the Cardinals, has solidified his place among the elite NFL owners. His ability to balance the demands of professional football with the needs of the community demonstrates the leadership qualities that have kept the Bidwill family’s legacy alive for generations. The Arizona Cardinals, under Michael Bidwill’s ownership, are likely to remain a force in both the NFL and the local Arizona community for many years to come.
