What happened: Indianapolis Colts principal owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon has been named to the 2026 TIME100 Sports list. The recognition highlights her emergence as a prominent and hands-on leader in the NFL since assuming control of the franchise in 2025.
Why it matters: Irsay-Gordon was cited for her unorthodox management style, including wearing a headset on the sidelines to monitor coaching communications. Her leadership has also been defined by the creation of diversity fellowships designed to expand opportunities for women and underrepresented coaches in football.
By the numbers: Irsay-Gordon is one of only two NFL owners to make the inaugural 2026 list. She assumed the role of principal owner following the death of her father, Jim Irsay, in May 2025.
What to watch: The Colts enter the 2026 offseason with Irsay-Gordon publicly demanding a higher sense of urgency after the team finished 8-9 last year.