Jim Irsay’s Daughters to Become Colts’ New Owners

The Indianapolis Colts will remain in the hands of the Irsay family. After the passing of longtime team owner Jim Irsay, his daughters will take control of the franchise. Jim Irsay died on May 21 at the age of 65. He had owned the Colts since 1997 and guided them to two Super Bowl appearances, including a title win in 2006.

His daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson — were named as the franchise’s new owners. Each has accepted a leadership role within the Colts, fulfilling Jim Irsay’s long-standing plan to keep the team in the family. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised Irsay’s legacy, highlighting his work in mental health advocacy. Irsay’s commitment to his family, the Colts organization and the Indianapolis community remains part of his enduring legacy.

Daughters Step Into Ownership

The Colts officially announced the leadership change in early June. In the statement, the team confirmed that all three Irsay daughters would assume co-ownership and continue the family’s legacy in the NFL.

Carlie Irsay-Gordon, the eldest, has been named owner and CEO. In accordance with league bylaws, she is designated as the team’s principal owner. Her appointment was widely expected, as she has long been involved in daily team operations.

Her sisters also received significant titles. Casey Foyt will serve as executive vice president, while Kalen Jackson has been named chief brand officer and president of the Colts Foundation. Each role was crafted based on their professional strengths and years of internal experience.

A Legacy Years in the Making

Jim Irsay had prepared for this transition well in advance. According to The Athletic, he often spoke about his desire to keep the franchise in the family. He wanted each daughter to inherit equal ownership and actively participate in team decisions.

All three women have worked for the organization in various roles for years. Irsay-Gordon has served on NFL ownership committees and managed numerous aspects of team operations, from game-day logistics to league relations.

Their father encouraged each daughter to find their niche within the franchise. Whether in the draft room or on the sidelines, the sisters built expertise in areas that aligned with their individual interests and leadership styles.

A Smoother Transition Than Before

This transition has been far smoother than the one that preceded it. When Jim Irsay inherited the team from his father Bob Irsay in 1997, legal conflict quickly followed. Nancy Irsay, Jim’s stepmother, filed a lawsuit challenging her late husband’s estate.

The matter was eventually resolved through an out-of-court settlement, allowing Jim Irsay to retain full ownership. Once in charge, he made clear that his goal was to keep the Colts in the Irsay name for generations.

With this new structure, that goal has become a reality. The Irsay daughters not only carry on the family’s ownership legacy but also represent a more modern and collaborative leadership style that mirrors today’s NFL.

Final Thoughts

The Colts’ future remains deeply tied to their family roots, even as they enter a new chapter. The smooth succession speaks to the strength of Jim Irsay’s vision and the experience his daughters bring to the table.

As the team pushes to return to playoff contention, Colts fans can trust that the franchise is in steady hands. The next era of Indianapolis football will be shaped by the leadership and dedication of the Irsay sisters.