Jim Irsay, the colourful and passionate owner of the Indianapolis Colts, has died at the age of 65. The team confirmed that Irsay passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday.
Irsay had led the Colts since 1997. He oversaw one of the most successful eras in the franchise’s history. Under his leadership, the team reached two Super Bowls. They lifted the Vince Lombardi Trophy in 2007. His deep love for the game, commitment to mental health awareness, and generosity made him one of the most unique figures in American sports.
He is survived by his three daughters. They are Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. He is also survived by ten grandchildren and his former wife, Meg Coyle. His eldest daughter Carlie had already stepped into a leadership role during Irsay’s suspension in 2014. She is expected to be a key figure in the future of the franchise.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell paid tribute. He called Irsay a man deeply committed to his family, the game, and his community. He praised his work in mental health advocacy as a lasting legacy.
In recent years, Irsay’s health made headlines after a suspected overdose in December 2023. He also received treatment for a respiratory illness in early 2024. While he made occasional public appearances afterward, he remained largely out of the spotlight.
Beyond football, Irsay was known for his love of rock music and rare memorabilia. His Jim Irsay Collection featured iconic items like Muhammad Ali’s championship belt and guitars once owned by rock legends. He famously turned down a billion-dollar offer for the collection. He insisted it was not for sale.
One of Irsay’s most cherished items was the original manuscript of Alcoholics Anonymous’ “Big Book.” A longtime advocate for addiction recovery, he was open about his personal battles. He had been to rehab over a dozen times. His efforts led to the creation of Kicking the Stigma, a campaign that has raised over $30 million to support mental health initiatives.
Despite struggles, Irsay remained a dreamer. In 2019, he said he hoped the Colts would win three straight championships. This was an ambitious goal that captured his relentless optimism. While that dream remained out of reach, his impact on players, fans, and the broader community is undeniable.
Ownership of the team is expected to remain within the Irsay family. This will continue the legacy Jim Irsay proudly inherited and shaped. He once said, “We’re keeping 100 percent of the team, and I’m passing it on to my children.”
For American football fans across the world, including in South Africa, Irsay’s passing marks the end of a vibrant chapter in the sport’s story.
Photo: Justin Casterline/Getty Images
