Forbes says Sounders are third most valuable MLS team

When Forbes releases their valuations it is important to remember that the list is based off of estimates and conversations with league insiders, per Forbes themselves. The precise numbers given are not necessarily reality, but the rankings of teams are fairly close to correct. Anyone paying attention to MLS knows that Atlanta is the most valuable team. Forbes says it is worth $330 million if it were on the market.

For a comparison that would be the 29th most valuable NHL team. Every NBA team, 23 MLB teams and every NFL team are valued at over $1 billion. MLS has a long way to go to catch up to the “Big Four.”

The Seattle Sounders are estimated to be worth $310 million, nestled between the LA Galaxy and LAFC with Toronto FC rounding out the top five. Small market clubs Portland, Orlando and Kansas City are all in the top 10, with NYCFC and DCU rounding that out.

The Columbus Crew, recently saved (probably), are the second least valuable team, via estimates, but the upcoming purchase of rights by the Hasloms may clarify that estimate.

Seattle’s valuation could come into play as the portion owned by Vulcan Sports & Entertainment could be up for sale, as the Seahawks and Trailblazers are expected to be.

Eight of the 11 most valuable teams made the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs. The next most valuable team to make the postseason was FC Dallas ranking 17th.