The XFL, or the Xtreme Football League, is a professional American football league founded by former WWE owner Vince McMahon. It was launched in 2001 but ceased operations after one season due to low ratings and financial difficulties. However, in 2018, McMahon announced the revival of the XFL, and the league is currently scheduled to begin its second season in 2023.
In the lead-up to its relaunch, the XFL underwent several changes in ownership and structure. In 2019, McMahon partnered with RedBird Capital Partners, a private equity firm, to fund the league's operations. Later that year, the Alpha Entertainment company, a media and entertainment company co-owned by actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and businessman Dany Garcia, acquired the XFL for $15 million.
Who Owns XFL
The XFL, a professional American football league, has had several owners since its inception in 2001.
- Vince McMahon (2001)
- RedBird Capital Partners (2019)
- Alpha Entertainment (2020)
- Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
- Dany Garcia
- Gerry Cardinale
- XFL Holdings (2023)
- Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia (2023)
In 2023, the XFL filed for bankruptcy and was purchased by Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia, making them the sole owners of the league.
Vince McMahon (2001)
Vince McMahon, the former owner of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), founded the XFL in 2001 with the aim of creating a new and exciting football league that would appeal to a wider audience. He envisioned a league with faster-paced games, simpler rules, and more entertaining personalities.
McMahon invested heavily in the XFL, spending millions of dollars on marketing and promotion. He also recruited some of the biggest names in football, including Heisman Trophy winners and former NFL stars. The XFL's inaugural season kicked off in February 2001, with eight teams competing in two divisions.
However, the XFL faced numerous challenges from the start. The league's games were often low-scoring and uncompetitive, and fans were turned off by the excessive use of gimmicks and the lack of parity between the teams. McMahon's decision to schedule XFL games on Saturday nights, opposite the NFL's regular season, also proved to be a major misstep.
As a result of these factors, the XFL's ratings plummeted after the first few weeks of the season. McMahon was forced to cancel the remainder of the schedule and the league filed for bankruptcy in October 2001, just six weeks after its launch. The XFL's failure was a major financial setback for McMahon, who lost an estimated $70 million on the venture.
Despite the XFL's initial failure, McMahon's vision for a new football league would eventually be realized in 2020, when the XFL was relaunched under the ownership of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Dany Garcia.
RedBird Capital Partners (2019)
In 2019, McMahon partnered with RedBird Capital Partners, a private equity firm founded by Gerry Cardinale, to relaunch the XFL. RedBird Capital Partners is known for its investments in sports and entertainment, including the New York Yankees, Liverpool F.C., and YES Network.
- Investment and Relaunch:
RedBird Capital Partners provided significant financial backing to the XFL, helping to fund the league's operations and relaunch. The firm also played a key role in developing the league's new business strategy, which focused on creating a more fan-friendly and affordable football experience.
- New Ownership Structure:
As part of the partnership, RedBird Capital Partners acquired a minority stake in the XFL, alongside McMahon's controlling stake. This new ownership structure allowed McMahon to retain significant control over the league while also bringing in a partner with expertise in sports business and investment.
- Expansion Plans:
RedBird Capital Partners' involvement in the XFL also signaled the league's ambition to expand beyond its initial eight-team format. The firm's investment provided the XFL with the resources to explore new markets and potentially add more teams in the future.
- Short-Lived Partnership:
RedBird Capital Partners' partnership with McMahon and the XFL was short-lived. In 2020, just a few months after the league's relaunch, the XFL filed for bankruptcy due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The league's assets were subsequently acquired by Alpha Entertainment, a company co-owned by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Dany Garcia.
Despite the XFL's second bankruptcy, RedBird Capital Partners' investment and involvement in the league played a significant role in its relaunch and helped to lay the foundation for its future success under new ownership.
Alpha Entertainment (2020)
In August 2020, Alpha Entertainment, a media and entertainment company co-owned by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Dany Garcia, acquired the XFL for $15 million. Alpha Entertainment is known for its production of films, television shows, and digital content, as well as its investments in various sports ventures.
- New Ownership and Vision:
Johnson and Garcia brought a fresh perspective and a new vision to the XFL. They aimed to create a league that was more inclusive, fan-friendly, and innovative. They also wanted to leverage their extensive experience in entertainment to make the XFL a more compelling and engaging product for fans.
- Relaunch Plans:
Alpha Entertainment immediately began developing plans to relaunch the XFL in 2023. The company secured new financing, hired a new management team, and started the process of rebuilding the league's infrastructure. They also announced plans to expand the XFL to new markets and potentially add more teams.
- Player Safety and Innovation:
Johnson and Garcia placed a strong emphasis on player safety and innovation. They implemented new rules and protocols to reduce the risk of injuries and concussions. They also invested in cutting-edge technology to enhance the fan experience, such as in-game augmented reality and real-time data analytics.
- Fan Engagement and Community:
Alpha Entertainment made a concerted effort to engage with XFL fans and build a strong community around the league. They launched social media campaigns, hosted fan events, and created opportunities for fans to interact with players and coaches. They also focused on making the XFL more accessible and affordable for fans, with lower ticket prices and a variety of viewing options.
Alpha Entertainment's acquisition of the XFL marked a new chapter in the league's history. Johnson and Garcia's commitment to innovation, fan engagement, and player safety helped to generate excitement and anticipation for the XFL's relaunch in 2023.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is a legendary figure in the world of sports and entertainment. As a professional wrestler, he achieved immense success in the WWE, becoming one of the most popular and recognizable athletes of all time. After retiring from wrestling, Johnson transitioned to acting, where he starred in numerous blockbuster films and became one of the highest-grossing actors in Hollywood.
Johnson's involvement in the XFL began in 2020, when he and his business partner Dany Garcia acquired the league from Alpha Entertainment. Johnson's purchase of the XFL was seen as a major coup for the league, as it brought a high-profile owner with a proven track record of success in both sports and entertainment.
Johnson immediately set about making his mark on the XFL. He implemented a number of changes to the league's rules and format, with the aim of making the game more exciting and fan-friendly. He also invested heavily in marketing and promotion, using his vast social media following to generate buzz for the league.
Johnson's efforts paid off, as the XFL's relaunch in 2023 was met with widespread enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. The league's games were well-attended and the ratings were strong. Johnson's ownership of the XFL has helped to legitimize the league and establish it as a viable alternative to the NFL.
Dwayne Johnson's involvement in the XFL is a testament to his commitment to sports and entertainment. He is a visionary leader who is passionate about creating a league that is both entertaining and meaningful to fans. Under his ownership, the XFL has the potential to become a major force in the world of professional football.
Dany Garcia
Dany Garcia is a successful businesswoman, producer, and co-owner of the XFL. She is the ex-wife of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and the co-founder of their production company, Seven Bucks Productions. Garcia is known for her work on films such as Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Hobbs & Shaw, as well as the television series Ballers and Young Rock.
Garcia's involvement in the XFL began in 2020, when she and Johnson acquired the league from Alpha Entertainment. Garcia played a key role in the XFL's relaunch in 2023, overseeing the league's business operations and working closely with Johnson to develop the league's strategy and vision.
Garcia is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in sports and entertainment. She is committed to creating a league that is welcoming to all and that provides opportunities for women and minorities. Garcia is also a vocal supporter of player safety and fair play.
Under Garcia's leadership, the XFL has made significant strides in its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The league has hired a diverse group of coaches and executives, and it has implemented policies to promote equal opportunities for all players and staff. Garcia is also a strong advocate for player safety, and she has worked to implement new rules and protocols to reduce the risk of injuries.
Dany Garcia is a powerful and influential figure in the world of sports and entertainment. Her involvement in the XFL is a testament to her commitment to creating a league that is both entertaining and meaningful. Under her leadership, the XFL has the potential to become a major force in the world of professional football.
Gerry Cardinale
Gerry Cardinale is an American businessman and investor. He is the founder and managing partner of RedBird Capital Partners, a private equity firm focused on investments in sports, media, and entertainment. Cardinale played a key role in the relaunch of the XFL in 2020, and he remains a minority owner of the league.
- Investment in the XFL:
In 2019, RedBird Capital Partners, led by Gerry Cardinale, invested in the XFL as part of a partnership with Vince McMahon. Cardinale provided significant financial backing to the league, helping to fund its operations and relaunch.
- Short-Lived Partnership:
Cardinale's partnership with McMahon and the XFL was short-lived. In 2020, just a few months after the league's relaunch, the XFL filed for bankruptcy due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The league's assets were subsequently acquired by Alpha Entertainment, a company co-owned by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Dany Garcia.
- Continued Involvement:
Despite the XFL's second bankruptcy, Cardinale remains a minority owner of the league. He has expressed his continued support for the XFL and its new ownership group. Cardinale is confident that the XFL has the potential to become a successful and sustainable football league.
- Focus on Sports and Entertainment:
Cardinale's investment in the XFL is part of his broader focus on sports and entertainment. RedBird Capital Partners has a portfolio of investments in various sports teams and media companies, including the New York Yankees, Liverpool F.C., and YES Network. Cardinale is a strong believer in the power of sports to bring people together and create positive change.
Gerry Cardinale is a savvy investor with a passion for sports and entertainment. His involvement in the XFL, although brief, demonstrates his commitment to the league and his belief in its potential for success.
XFL Holdings (2023)
In 2023, Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia, the co-owners of the XFL, formed a new entity called XFL Holdings to oversee the league's operations. XFL Holdings is a privately held company that is solely owned by Johnson and Garcia.
The formation of XFL Holdings marks a new chapter in the league's history. It gives Johnson and Garcia complete control over the XFL and allows them to implement their vision for the league without interference from outside investors.
XFL Holdings is responsible for all aspects of the league's operations, including business strategy, marketing, player personnel, and game operations. The company is also responsible for developing and maintaining the league's infrastructure, including its stadiums and practice facilities.
Johnson and Garcia have stated that their goal is to make the XFL a stable and successful football league that can compete with the NFL. They are committed to investing in the league's long-term growth and sustainability.
XFL Holdings is a key player in the future of the XFL. The company's leadership and financial resources will be essential to the league's success. With Johnson and Garcia at the helm, the XFL has a bright future ahead.
Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia (2023)
In 2023, Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia, the co-owners of the XFL, formed a new entity called XFL Holdings to oversee the league's operations. XFL Holdings is a privately held company that is solely owned by Johnson and Garcia.
- Complete Control:
The formation of XFL Holdings gives Johnson and Garcia complete control over the XFL. They are the sole decision-makers for the league, and they have the power to implement their vision without interference from outside investors.
- Long-Term Commitment:
Johnson and Garcia have stated that they are committed to the XFL's long-term success. They are investing heavily in the league's infrastructure and operations, and they are working to build a stable and sustainable business.
- Focus on Fan Engagement:
Johnson and Garcia are committed to creating a fan-friendly and engaging football experience. They are working to make the XFL more accessible and affordable for fans, and they are using their extensive experience in entertainment to create innovative and exciting game presentations.
- Expansion Plans:
Johnson and Garcia have ambitious plans to expand the XFL in the future. They are looking to add more teams to the league and to eventually compete with the NFL as a major professional football league.
Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia are passionate about the XFL and its potential to revolutionize professional football. They are committed to building a league that is both entertaining and meaningful to fans. Under their leadership, the XFL has the opportunity to become a major force in the world of sports.
FAQ
Who owns the XFL?
The XFL is currently owned by Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia through their company, XFL Holdings.
Question 2: What is the history of ownership changes in the XFL?
The XFL has had several owners since its inception in 2001, including Vince McMahon, RedBird Capital Partners, and Alpha Entertainment.
Question 3: Who was the original owner of the XFL?
Vince McMahon was the original owner of the XFL when it was founded in 2001.
Question 4: Why did the XFL fail in 2001?
The XFL's initial failure in 2001 was attributed to various factors, including low ratings, excessive gimmicks, lack of parity between teams, and scheduling conflicts with the NFL.
Question 5: When was the XFL relaunched?
The XFL was relaunched in 2020 under the ownership of Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia.
Question 6: What are the long-term goals for the XFL?
Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia have expressed their ambition to expand the XFL and eventually compete with the NFL as a major professional football league.
Question 7: How can I stay updated on the latest XFL news and developments?
You can stay updated on the latest XFL news and developments by following the league's official website and social media accounts.
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We hope this FAQ section has provided you with the answers to your questions about the ownership of the XFL. If you have any further questions, please feel free to visit the XFL's official website or contact the league directly.
Coming Soon: Tips for Watching and Enjoying the XFL
Tips
Introduction Paragraph for Tips:
Whether you're a longtime football fan or new to the XFL, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of watching and enjoying the league:
Tip 1: Learn the Rules and Format:
The XFL has some unique rules and a slightly different format compared to the NFL. Take some time to familiarize yourself with these differences before watching a game. This will help you better understand the flow of the game and appreciate the strategic decisions made by coaches and players.
Tip 2: Get to Know the Teams and Players:
The XFL has eight teams, each with its own unique identity and roster of talented players. Take some time to learn about the teams and players in your area, or choose a team to support based on their location, colors, or playing style. Getting to know the players and their stories will make the games more engaging and exciting.
Tip 3: Find a Way to Watch the Games:
The XFL games are broadcast on a variety of platforms, including ESPN, ABC, and FX. You can also stream the games online through ESPN+ and other streaming services. Make sure you have a way to watch the games before the season starts so you don't miss any of the action.
Tip 4: Engage with Other Fans:
The XFL is a great way to connect with other football fans and share your love for the game. Join online forums, social media groups, or local fan clubs dedicated to the XFL. Interacting with other fans will enhance your enjoyment of the league and make the games more social and interactive.
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By following these tips, you can get the most out of watching and enjoying the XFL. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard football enthusiast, there's something for everyone in the XFL. So grab your jersey, gather your friends, and get ready for some exciting football action!
Now that you have some tips for watching and enjoying the XFL, let's wrap up this article with a brief conclusion.
Conclusion
Summary of Main Points:
In this article, we explored the fascinating history of ownership changes in the XFL, from its inception in 2001 to its current ownership under Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia. We learned about the challenges and setbacks that the league has faced, as well as the hopes and ambitions of its new owners.
We also highlighted the key figures who have played a significant role in shaping the XFL's destiny, including Vince McMahon, RedBird Capital Partners, and Alpha Entertainment. Each of these entities brought their own unique perspectives and contributions to the league, helping to shape its identity and direction.
Finally, we provided some practical tips for fans who are interested in watching and enjoying the XFL. From understanding the rules and format to engaging with other fans, these tips can help you get the most out of your XFL experience.
Closing Message:
The XFL is a dynamic and ever-evolving league with a rich history and a promising future. Under the leadership of Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia, the XFL has the potential to become a major force in the world of professional football. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the XFL, we encourage you to check out the league and see for yourself why it's generating so much excitement and anticipation.
So gather your friends, choose your favorite team, and get ready for some exciting football action in the XFL!