Bin Lin, co-founder and vice chairman of Chinese tech giant Xiaomi, has acquired a 1% minority stake in the Miami Dolphins organization and related assets for a record $12.5 billion valuation. The NFL-approved deal, announced by the franchise, marks the highest price tag ever for such an investment and underscores surging values in major U.S. business holdings. Majority owner Stephen Ross sold the non-controlling interest, which also covers premier venues and events like the Miami Open and Formula 1 race in Miami.
Details of the Transaction
The investment values the Dolphins and associated properties at $12.5 billion, surpassing the prior benchmark set by the Los Angeles Lakers' majority stake sale at $10 billion in June 2025. Ross originally bought control of the organization in 2009 for $1 billion, highlighting a more than tenfold increase over 15 years. The sale received league approval on Tuesday and should finalize soon, injecting fresh capital into Ross's portfolio.
Lin’s Path from Silicon Valley to Xiaomi
Lin holds a master’s degree from Drexel University in Philadelphia and spent over 15 years as a software engineer at Microsoft and Google. In 2010, he co-founded Xiaomi in Beijing, which has grown into a global leader in consumer electronics and smartphones. His technical expertise now extends into high-profile international ventures, blending technology leadership with diversified investments.
Strategic Partnership and Regional Impact
“I am excited to have Bin Lin join us as a new strategic partner,” Ross stated, praising Lin’s entrepreneurial vision and commitment to innovation. Lin called the opportunity “a wonderful investment and learning experience,” citing the organization’s operation of world-class venues and events. The influx of funds aims to fuel expansion of the Dolphins enterprise and bolster economic development in South Florida, signaling growing cross-border ties between Chinese tech firms and American business assets.
