Miller Family Acquires RSL and Royals: A New Era for Smith Entertainment Group’s Sports Legacy

SANDY — The Miller family is making waves in sports again. Five years after selling the Utah Jazz, they have bought a controlling stake in RSL Football Holdings. This means they now own Real Salt Lake (RSL) in Major League Soccer and the Utah Royals FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

The big news was revealed at a press conference at America First Field, where both league commissioners and Utah Governor Spencer Cox were present. David Blitzer, the former majority owner, will stay on as the second-largest owner.

Blitzer expressed excitement about working with the Millers, saying, “I’m eager to continue building on the successes of RSL and the Utah Royals and bring championships to Utah.”

Ryan Smith, the previous owner, also shared his support for the Millers, calling Gail Miller the perfect local steward for Utah’s soccer teams. He emphasized the importance of refocusing his efforts on basketball and hockey, indicating that now is the right time for the Millers to step in.

Although they stepped back from the Utah sports scene after selling the Jazz, the Millers have continued to support local teams, including the Salt Lake Bees, whose stadium was upgraded recently.

Interestingly, there were whispers about the Miller family’s interest in RSL back when Smith and Blitzer acquired the team. It appears their patience has paid off.

Steve Miller, chairman of the Larry H. Miller Company, will now lead both soccer clubs. He remarked on the family values that align with the teams, highlighting their dedication to community and family-friendly environments.

The price tag for this acquisition? A whopping $600 million. To put it in perspective, Smith and Blitzer bought RSL for around $400 million in early 2022, making this transaction a significant financial move for the Millers.

In terms of growth, the Millers plan to enhance both the stadium and its surroundings to improve the overall game day experience. The Athletic reports that this sale marks a new chapter for soccer in Utah, especially as RSL prepares for the upcoming MLS transfer window. The team is reportedly working to secure a proven striker before the deadline.

This ownership change comes at a pivotal time for Utah soccer fans, as the Royals and RSL get ready for their double-match weekend at America First Field. The excitement in the air is palpable, especially with matches scheduled back-to-back this Friday and Saturday.

According to MLS Commissioner Don Garber, this event signifies a crucial moment in professional soccer, showcasing the potential for growth in the sport. He remarked on the shared vision of enhancing the soccer experience in Utah, a state known for its enthusiastic participation in sports.

As the Millers embrace this new venture, all eyes will be on RSL and the Royals to see how they thrive under their stewardship—and whether they can achieve the ultimate goal of bringing championships home.



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