San Jose Earthquakes Owner Puts Club on the Market

John Fisher, the billionaire owner of the San Jose Earthquakes, is planning to sell a controlling stake in the MLS franchise, Sportico reported. Fisher, who also owns MLB’s Athletics and recently relocated them from Oakland to Las Vegas, has hired Moelis & Co. to manage the sale. An official announcement is expected as early as Wednesday.

Fisher previously explored selling minority shares in 2021, but this time, he intends to part with the majority stake, according to a source familiar with the matter. Neither MLS, the Earthquakes, nor Moelis commented publicly.

As of January, Sportico valued the Earthquakes at $600 million, placing them 20th among MLS clubs. Fisher acquired the team in 2007 for $20 million. Despite playing in their own stadium, PayPal Park—which they share with NWSL’s Bay FC—the Earthquakes posted one of the league’s lowest attendance and revenue figures last year. Still, the Silicon Valley wealth surrounding the Bay Area boosts the club’s market appeal.

This move comes as MLS enters a pivotal stretch, with the 2026 World Cup expected to boost interest in the league. Discussions are ongoing about syncing the league calendar with FIFA’s, while clubs continue to seek greater returns from the Apple media deal.

Other teams are also undergoing transitions. Vancouver Whitecaps are currently for sale, and Real Salt Lake changed ownership in April for close to $600 million.

Fisher, whose net worth is estimated at $3 billion by Forbes, is also working to finance a new $1.75 billion stadium for the Athletics in Las Vegas. Clark County will contribute $350 million, while Fisher has brought in Galatioto Sports Partners to sell limited partner stakes and raise the remaining funds.