Total Pro Sports
Colts owner Jim Irsay, who had led the team since 1997, has passed away.
Specifics of his death are not yet known, though Irsay has dealt with numerous health issues in recent years.
The Colts said that Irsay “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on Wednesday afternoon.
‘Jim’s dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts, in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family were unsurpassed,” Colts COO Pete Ward said in a statement.
“Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we grieve with them.
“Some of Jim’s fondest memories came from his youth working training camps in Baltimore and growing relationships with players, coaches, and staff whom he considered his extended family. He worked in every department before he was named the youngest general manager in team history in 1984, when the Colts arrived in Indianapolis. After he took sole ownership in 1997, he led the Colts to a long series of division titles and brought the city its first Super Bowl Championship. Jim’s love and appreciation for the NFL in addition to its history, tradition, and principles influenced him to become a steward of the game throughout his 50-plus years in the League.
“Jim’s generosity can be felt all over Indianapolis, the state of Indiana, and the country. He made philanthropy a daily endeavor. He never hesitated to help countless organizations and individuals live better lives. Music was one of Jim’s passions, and the ability to share his band and collection with millions of people across the world brought him tremendous joy. Simply put, he wanted to make the world a better place, and that philosophy never wavered. Jim will be deeply missed by his family, the Colts organization, and fans everywhere, but we remain inspired by his caring and unique spirit.”
Jim Irsay is survived by his three daughters and 10 grandchildren.
Irsay assumed day-to-day management of the team in 1995, when his father, Robert, suffered a stroke.
Breaking: Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay died Wednesday at the age of 65, the team announced. pic.twitter.com/UwKiXKNbfR
— ESPN (@espn) May 21, 2025
Robert Irsay acquired the team in 1972 for $12 million.
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has passed away.
The news comes in the midst of him fighting several health issues and being in the process of physical rehabilitation in Beverly Hills, Cal.
Irsay was 65.
