Miller Family Acquires Controlling Stake in Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals in $600 Million Deal

The Miller family, through their entity Miller Sports + Entertainment (MSE), has acquired a controlling interest in Real Salt Lake (RSL) and Utah Royals FC, marking a major shift in professional sports ownership in Utah. Announced in April 2025, the transaction is reportedly valued at approximately $600 million and includes Real Monarchs (MLS NEXT Pro), the RSL Academy, America First Field, and the Zions Bank Training Center.

This acquisition sees the Miller family return to major league sports ownership for the first time since selling the NBA’s Utah Jazz in 2020. MSE now takes operational control of both the Major League Soccer (MLS) and National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) franchises, while David Blitzer, who previously co-owned the clubs with Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith, retains a minority stake. Smith has exited the ownership group as part of the deal.

The Miller family’s return to the professional sports landscape builds on their long-standing influence in Utah’s business and civic sectors. Gail Miller, chair of the Larry H. Miller Company, described the acquisition as a homecoming: “Bringing RSL and the Royals into the Miller Sports + Entertainment family is an exciting next step. We’re committed to enhancing the fan experience and ensuring these clubs continue to thrive as a source of pride for our community.”

The purchase aligns with the Millers’ wider ambitions, which also include a bid to bring Major League Baseball to Utah. Their investment in RSL and the Royals is expected to provide continuity for the clubs and deepen their roots in the local market. The family has signaled plans to explore the development of a surrounding sports and entertainment district at America First Field, although no formal proposals have been confirmed.

Real Salt Lake joined MLS in 2005 and has grown into a flagship franchise in the Western Conference, with a dedicated fanbase and strong youth development infrastructure. Utah Royals FC, initially launched in 2017 and relaunched in 2023, represents the NWSL’s presence in the state and has been central to advancing women’s football in the region.

The acquisition reinforces a growing trend in U.S. sports of local ownership groups consolidating control to drive long-term planning and deeper community integration. While specific capital deployment plans have not been outlined, the deal positions MSE to leverage synergies across its broader portfolio and further expand its presence in the sports and entertainment industry.

With operational control now secured, the Miller family has re-established itself as a key force in Utah’s professional sports landscape. As both MLS and NWSL continue to grow commercially and expand their global reach, RSL and the Royals are set to enter a new era under local leadership with deep ties to the community.