The Walton family, known for founding retail giant Walmart, has extended its influence into the world of sports by acquiring several major franchises. This move highlights the family’s significant impact beyond their retail empire.
Walton-Penner Group
Rob Walton, son of Walmart founder Sam Walton, and his daughter, Carrie Walton Penner, purchased the Denver Broncos in 2022. Greg Penner, Carrie’s husband and Walmart Chairman of the Board, serves as the Broncos CEO.
Ann Walton Kroenke
Ann Walton Kroenke, another member of the Walton family, received ownership of the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche from her husband, Stan Kroenke, in 2015. Stan Kroenke, who initially made his fortune through shopping centers anchored by Walmarts, also owns the LA Rams, Arsenal’s men’s and women’s teams, the Colorado Rapids, and the Colorado Mammoth.
Marc Lore
Marc Lore, former Walmart eCommerce CEO, partnered with Alex Rodriguez to acquire the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx in 2025. Lore is also known for founding Jet.com, which Walmart purchased for $3.3 billion.
David Glass
David Glass, who served as Walmart’s CEO from 1988 to 2000, became CEO of the Kansas City Royals in 1993 and purchased the team in 2000. He sold the Royals in 2019, shortly before his passing in 2020.
The Walton family’s ventures into sports ownership demonstrate their broad influence and commitment to expanding their legacy beyond retail.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
