Estate of Paul G. Allen Begins Seahawks Sale Process

The late billionaire's estate is seeking a new owner for the NFL franchise.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Estate of Paul G. Allen has officially launched the process to sell the Seattle Seahawks, the NFL team Allen purchased in 1997. The estate said the move is consistent with Allen's directive that his sports holdings eventually be sold, with all proceeds directed to philanthropic efforts. Investment bank Allen & Company and law firm Latham & Watkins have been selected to manage the sale, which is expected to continue through the 2026 NFL offseason. Any final purchase agreement will require approval from NFL owners.

Why it matters

Paul Allen's ownership of the Seahawks was a defining part of his legacy in Seattle, where the team has been a beloved institution for decades. The sale of the franchise represents the end of an era and raises questions about the future direction of the team under new ownership.

The details

The Estate of Paul G. Allen, who passed away in 2018, has officially launched the process to sell the Seattle Seahawks NFL franchise. The estate said the move is consistent with Allen's directive that his sports holdings eventually be sold, with all proceeds directed to philanthropic efforts. Investment bank Allen & Company and law firm Latham & Watkins have been selected to manage the sale process, which is expected to continue through the 2026 NFL offseason. Any final purchase agreement will require approval from NFL owners.

  • Paul Allen purchased the Seahawks in 1997.
  • Paul Allen passed away in 2018, leaving the team to his estate.
  • The estate has now formally begun the process of selling the team in 2026.

The players

Paul G. Allen

The late billionaire who purchased the Seattle Seahawks in 1997 and owned the team until his death in 2018.

Allen & Company

The investment bank selected by the Allen estate to manage the sale process for the Seattle Seahawks.

Latham & Watkins

The law firm selected by the Allen estate to assist with the sale of the Seattle Seahawks.

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What’s next

The sale process is expected to continue through the 2026 NFL offseason, with any final purchase agreement requiring approval from NFL owners.

The takeaway

The sale of the Seattle Seahawks marks the end of an era in the city, as the team has been a beloved institution under Paul Allen's ownership since 1997. The new owner will inherit a storied franchise with a passionate fan base, but will also face the challenge of continuing Allen's legacy of community engagement and philanthropic efforts.