The Wilf homestead has served as the family’s headquarters since their purchase of the Minnesota Vikings two decades ago. They adopted a multigenerational ownership mindset rooted in community, competitive nature, and comprehensive efforts to engage fans. Since purchase of the franchise in 2005, owners Zygi, Mark, and Leonard Wilf have made major financial investments to strengthen the franchise. Even more than that, they have sewn their family legacy into its very fabric, continually and actively shaping its direction and performance.
The Wilfs originally purchased the Minnesota Vikings for just $600 million. Among those was the U.S. Bank Stadium, a state-of-the-art venue that’s been necessary lifeblood for the team and its long-suffering fans since. Today, this acquisition stands as the first step in a multigenerational promise. The Wilfs have brought their family deeply into the fold. Six of their kids are on the team’s org chart. This structure is indicative of their long-term perspective for the team, with a focus on continuity and commitment rather than a short-term, transactional approach.
The brothers have always put a premium on working together to make their decisions. Zygi, Mark, and Leonard work closely together, wielding influence and authority as a unified front. As their owner, Mark Wilf puts it, their management style is “nose in, hands out.” This combination of approaches demonstrates their desire to maintain federal oversight while giving their executives the latitude to manage day-to-day operations.
In 2012, the Wilfs finally created the receiver role that they gave to Rick Spielman. This decision made clear their commitment to building a strong front office. In 2015, the company created a role for a chief operating officer. Kevin Warren, the inaugural holder of this position, was succeeded by Andrew Miller. This intentional growth of leadership roles speaks to their willingness to give the Vikings the highest quality, best-in-class management.
The family’s history with football runs deep. His father, Joseph Wilf, had previously sought to buy NFL teams himself. In particular, he looked at bids for the New York Titans and Philadelphia Eagles. Zygi and Mark Wilf, ardent fans of the New York Giants. Though they might talk about their passion for football, nothing can mask their pursuit of greed and profit over excellence within the Vikings franchise.
On their watch, the Vikings have reached the NFC Championship Game twice. Beyond this, they have worked tirelessly to stay competitive even in down seasons. Instead of agreeing to undergo full-roster rebuilds during down cycles, the Wilfs have favored putting increasingly competitive teams on the field each year. They understand that keeping a deep, competitive table helps keep everyone’s focus on the field and provides an enjoyable experience for their fans.
Working hand in hand with local officials, they’ve been central to the development of many of the NFL’s most cherished facilities. The U.S. Bank Stadium is a striking proof of the success of this kind of partnership. With the TCO Performance Center, the players’ and fans’ experience is better—their game day experience, having better access to the players.
“The things that drove us day one continue to drive us today. Championships, fan experience, community, all those things that kind of are pillars in how we approach things. They haven’t changed a bit since day one.”
The Wilfs’ focus on community goes beyond building a new infrastructure. The family has worked hard to build bridges across Minnesota and focus on reconnecting with fans through community partnerships and efforts. That sense of care articulated by players further reinforces this ethos. Harrison Phillips noted,
Players and staff members have raved about the familial culture created by the Wilf family. Rick Spielman highlighted this unique work culture:
“This guy cares about me. I’m not just No. 97. He cares about who Harrison Phillips is.”
Though they’ve overcome great odds in their 20 years thus far, the Wilfs have not wavered from their long-term plan. They want to be able to flex and bend in an increasingly dynamic league landscape, while building on their successes. Mark Wilf stated:
“Everybody looks at this business as how harsh it can be, how cutthroat it can be, but this is just an example of how special the Wilf family is, how special the Minnesota Vikings are and how special the NFL family is.”
The Wilfs should be proud of their journey to this point. As they do so, they’re planning with an eye to the future and creating ambitious targets for themselves to strive toward. “I think hopefully over the long term, the record, that’s certainly one measurement of success,” Mark emphasized. “Obviously trophies are the ultimate measure of success.”
“We try to be long term, not to be too knee-jerk, and to stick with it sometimes.”
As they look toward the future, the Wilfs continue to reflect on their journey with pride while setting ambitious goals for what lies ahead. “I think hopefully over the long term, the record, that’s certainly one measurement of success,” Mark emphasized. “Obviously trophies are the ultimate measure of success.”
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