Full Breakdown
Miami Dolphins Leadership Shift and Creation of Ross Sports & Entertainment
8/5/2026, 12:14:05 AM
Core Event
In early August 2026 the Miami Dolphins announced President and CEO Tom Garfinkel is stepping down after a 13-year tenure. Garfinkel will remain vice chairman of the Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium and continue as managing partner of the Miami Grand Prix. Owner Stephen M. Ross simultaneously unveiled Ross Sports & Entertainment (RSE), consolidating the Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, the Miami Grand Prix, the Miami Open and the Precision Drive Club. Daniel Sillman, Ross’s son-in-law, was named CEO of RSE and will oversee football operations, reporting to head coach Jeff Hafley, GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and EVP Brandon Shore.
Background & Context
Garfinkel joined the Dolphins in 2013 and led a business turnaround that expanded the franchise into a multi-sport enterprise. Highlights include a privately funded $550 million stadium renovation, a $135 million training complex, and growth of the Dolphins Cancer Challenge into the NFL’s largest charitable fundraiser, generating over $100 million for cancer research.
Data & Statistics
- Revenue growth: >400 % since 2013
- Contracted sponsorship income: > $3 billion
- Hard Rock Stadium renovation: $550 million
- Training complex: $135 million
- Cancer Challenge contributions: >$100 million
- Events secured (Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix through 2041, 30-year Miami Open deal, 2020 Super Bowl, 2021 & 2026 College Football Playoff titles, seven 2026 FIFA World Cup matches) have produced billions of dollars in regional impact.
Official Statements & Responses
Garfinkel said, “I love the Dolphins and the people here, but after 13 years it was just the right time for me to make this decision.” Stephen Ross praised Garfinkel’s tenure as “one of the most impactful executive tenures in professional sports history.” Sillman added, “It is an incredible honor to lead Ross Sports & Entertainment at such an exciting moment.”
Timeline
- 2013 – Garfinkel hired as president and CEO.
- 2020-2026 – Major events secured (Super Bowl, College Football Playoff championships, FIFA World Cup matches, Formula 1 Grand Prix).
- Early August 2026 – Announcement of Garfinkel’s transition and formation of RSE; Sillman appointed CEO.
- May 3, 2026 – Garfinkel appeared on the grid during the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix.
Why It Matters
The restructuring places the Dolphins, stadium, and marquee events under one corporate umbrella, streamlining decision-making and branding. Sillman’s background—co-founding media-rights firm Relevent and negotiating deals with UEFA, La Liga and the Champions League—adds international sports-media expertise to the ownership group. Garfinkel’s continued role as vice chairman provides continuity while the organization pursues new growth avenues.
What’s Next
RSE will manage day-to-day football operations, with Sillman reporting to the head coach, GM and EVP. The expanded portfolio is expected to attract additional marquee events and sponsorships, reinforcing South Florida’s status as a global sports hub.
