Jim Irsay dies at 65: NFL world mourns sudden loss of Colts owner, Super Bowl champion
Jim Irsay, the longtime owner of the Colts who helmed the team to a Super Bowl 41 title back in 2007, died on Wednesday. He was 65 years old.
His franchise released a statement announcing his passing on X, the website formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday evening.
“We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner and CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon,” the statement read. “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. Our deepest sympathies go to his daughter, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we. grieve with them.”
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— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) May 21, 2025Irsay took ownership of the franchise upon his father’s death in 1997, although he had been running day-to-day management of the organization since 1995. Under his tutelage, Indianapolis became one of the league’s most consistent sides, tallying the sixth-most wins during his 28-year tenure in charge (257).
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Jim Irsay cause of deathIrsay’s cause of death wasn’t yet made known. He had dealt with his fair share of health issues in recent years. Police found the former Colts owner unresponsive in his home back in December, and he was kept away from the team throughout the 2024 season while being treated for “a severe respiratory illness.”
He also was open about his struggles with addiction, as Irsay went to rehab at least 15 times and once said he nearly died of an overdose.
Jim Irsay tributesFootball luminaries far and wide offered condolences and memories of Irsay on social media. Here are some of the most notable responses following the famed owner’s shock passing.
Will save longer reflections for later, but for his flaws (we are all flawed), Jim
Irsay loved his city, cared deeply about the fans, and was passionate about winning – three things you can’t say about every sports owner.
He was one of a kind and will be missed. R.I.P. https://t.co/hEhOriGDah
— Derek Schultz (@Schultz975) May 21, 2025Jim Irsay was a noted philanthropist to many causes. Most notable, though, may be his commitment to mental health betterment… #KickingtheStigma was one of his projects and the #NFL is the better for it. #Colts #RIP https://t.co/bTmY0F8Led
— Aditi Kinkhabwala (@AKinkhabwala) May 21, 2025There is no sports owner who mastered Twitter like Jim Irsay. Hope the giant roof in the sky is open, Legend. https://t.co/zylFnSZlNN pic.twitter.com/AKBDdz2MPa
— Kyle Pagan (@CBKylePagan) May 21, 2025RIP Mr. Irsay.
I worked for two very different franchises. Jim Irsay did things the right way.
Each birthday came with a signed card—and a crisp $100 bill. Playoff bonuses and daily meals for non-football staff. Top-notch travel.
He cared deeply about his organization. https://t.co/40rUYLHx7l
— Andrew Walker (@AWalkerColts) May 21, 2025Jim Irsay was an incredible man.
Jim Irsay was an incredible leader.
Jim Irsay was an incredible NFL Owner.
A gem in the Indianapolis Community.
The Colts Family will miss him dearly.
He struggled… but all humans do.
Rest in Peace, Jim Irsay.
— Sam Block (@theblockspot) May 21, 2025
