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Milan Mandarić is a name that resonates across both the tech industry and the world of football.
As a self-made entrepreneur who rose from post-war Yugoslavia to become a millionaire businessman in the United States, Mandarić built an empire through innovation and strategic investment.
Later, he turned his passion for football into a legacy of club ownership across Europe. This article explores the estimated net worth of Milan Mandarić in 2025 and the remarkable journey that built his fortune.
Who Is Milan Mandarić And How Did He Start His Career?
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Milan Mandarić, born on 5 September 1938 in Gospić, Croatia, emerged as a highly influential entrepreneur in both the business and sports sectors.
He was raised in Novi Sad, Serbia, and demonstrated business acumen early in life by taking over his father’s machine shop at the age of 21.
Within just a few years, he transformed the family operation into one of the most prominent businesses in Yugoslavia.
Despite his success, the socialist regime in Yugoslavia was wary of wealthy individuals. Seen as a political threat, Mandarić decided to leave the country in 1969.
His move to the United States marked the beginning of a new chapter that would eventually define his global business stature.
From Yugoslavia To The United States
Once in California, Mandarić started working at a computer component manufacturer. He was soon invited to partner in a startup venture when two senior managers left the company.
After creative differences arose, he established his own company, Lika Corporation, in 1971.
By 1976, Lika had grown into the largest computer component manufacturer in the United States.
He then founded Sanmina Corporation, focusing on printed circuit boards, which later became Sanmina-SCI after acquiring SCI Systems in 2001.
Launching Tech Empires
Through Lika and Sanmina, Mandarić capitalised on the rapid growth of Silicon Valley and helped shape the global electronics manufacturing industry.
His ability to scale operations and forecast technological trends earned him recognition as a pioneer in his field.
What Are Milan Mandarić’s Major Business Ventures?
Mandarić’s business success spans several sectors including electronics manufacturing, investment banking, and sports franchise ownership.
His wealth accumulation was primarily driven by his involvement in the technology sector during the formative years of Silicon Valley.
Computer Industry Success
Lika Corporation positioned itself as an innovator in the development and production of electronic components. This allowed Mandarić to accumulate significant capital, which he later used to fund other ventures.
Diversification Into Finance And Sports
After selling Sanmina, Mandarić broadened his interests to include:
- Investment banking operations such as involvement with Behrman Capital
- Ownership of U.S.-based and European football clubs
- Venture capital investments across various sectors
These diversified ventures provided long-term stability and helped him withstand the volatility often seen in sports management.
What Is Milan Mandarić’s Net Worth In 2025?
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As of 2025, Milan Mandarić’s net worth is estimated to be approximately £100 million. This substantial fortune is the result of decades of strategic entrepreneurship, high-stakes investments, and a unique ability to revitalise underperforming football clubs.
His financial journey spans multiple continents and industries, beginning in socialist Yugoslavia, flourishing in Silicon Valley, and extending through Europe’s top football leagues.
Long-Term Wealth Accumulation
Mandarić’s wealth is not the result of a single venture or windfall. Rather, it reflects a consistent pattern of calculated business decisions:
- His early success with Lika Corporation, which he built into one of the leading computer component manufacturers in the United States, laid the foundation for his wealth.
- After selling Lika to the Tandy Corporation, he founded Sanmina, which became a global electronics manufacturing powerhouse.
- The merger with SCI Systems in 2001 created Sanmina-SCI, a significant player in the industry.
- These ventures allowed Mandarić to accumulate capital early, which he then reinvested into sports franchises, real estate, and financial markets.
Football Investments And Exit Profits
In the football world, Mandarić was known for acquiring financially troubled clubs, stabilising their operations, and eventually selling them at a profit.
He brought a business-minded approach to club management, focusing on infrastructure, leadership appointments, and financial recovery.
Key football-related financial transactions include:
- Leicester City: Acquired for approximately £25 million and later sold to a Thai consortium for an estimated £40 million, representing a strong return despite early struggles and relegation.
- Sheffield Wednesday: Purchased in 2010 for just £1 with substantial debt obligations. After stabilising the club and guiding it to promotion, he sold it for £37.5 million, a deal which also covered the club’s liabilities.
- Portsmouth FC: Though not as financially lucrative, his involvement in Portsmouth helped raise his profile and influence in English football.
Real Estate And Private Equity
In addition to tech and football, Mandarić has invested in:
- Commercial real estate holdings across the United States and Europe
- Financial instruments and private equity, including roles in firms like Behrman Capital
These quieter, long-term assets contribute significantly to the stability and size of his wealth.
Current Net Worth Breakdown
| Asset Category | Estimated Value (GBP) | Notes |
| Tech Ventures (Lika, Sanmina) | £30 million+ | Proceeds from exits, stock options, and early tech investments |
| Leicester City Sale Proceeds | £40 million | Sold to Thai consortium in late 2000s |
| Sheffield Wednesday Sale | £37.5 million | Deal included debt settlement and full ownership transfer |
| Real Estate Holdings | £10 million+ | Properties in the US and Europe |
| Investments & Other Assets | £5 million+ | Includes private equity, shares, and cash reserves |
| Total Net Worth (2025) | £100 million+ | Rounded estimate based on public and financial data |
Note: Some financial details are based on public reporting and informed estimates, as Mandarić’s complete portfolio is privately held.
Wealth Despite Legal And Business Challenges
Mandarić’s ability to preserve and grow his fortune even during legal scrutiny and business uncertainty is noteworthy. His 2009 tax evasion charges (of which he was acquitted in 2012) and other investigations could have impacted investor confidence.
However, his clear legal record and continued presence in football governance, such as his current role at FK Vojvodina, suggest resilience and ongoing relevance in both business and sport.
How Did Milan Mandarić Enter The Football Industry?
Football was more than a business venture for Mandarić—it was a lifelong passion. As a youth, he played for FK Novi Sad in Serbia. This personal connection with the sport influenced his decision to invest in football clubs globally.
Early Football Ventures In The United States
In the 1970s, Mandarić started F.C. Lika and acquired the San Jose Earthquakes. In 1978, he bought the Connecticut Bicentennials of the NASL, moved the team to California as the Oakland Stompers, and later relocated them again to Edmonton, Alberta, renaming them the Edmonton Drillers.
Expansion Into European Football
Mandarić’s European investments began with minority stakes in Standard Liège before he took full ownership of R. Charleroi S.C. in Belgium and OGC Nice in France. Under his ownership, Nice won the Coupe de France but also experienced relegation from Ligue 1.
Which Football Clubs Did Milan Mandarić Own And How Did They Perform?
Mandarić became a recognised figure in English football with his ownership of three major clubs: Portsmouth, Leicester City, and Sheffield Wednesday. Each club presented its own challenges and opportunities, and his tenure significantly impacted their trajectories.
Portsmouth FC
In May 1999, Mandarić bought Portsmouth FC. At the time, the club was struggling in the lower tiers of English football.
His appointment of Harry Redknapp as manager was instrumental in securing promotion to the Premier League.
In 2006, he sold a 50% stake in the club to Alexandre Gaydamak and eventually his remaining shares as well. Despite his departure, the club continued to thrive briefly, even winning the FA Cup in 2008.
Leicester City
Mandarić acquired Leicester City in 2007 for approximately £25 million. His ownership saw numerous managerial changes, contributing to instability within the club.
Although Leicester was relegated to League One in 2008, they bounced back as League One champions in 2009 under Nigel Pearson.
He later sold the club to a Thai consortium for an estimated £40 million.
Sheffield Wednesday
In 2010, Mandarić purchased Sheffield Wednesday for just £1 but took on significant financial liabilities.
He negotiated settlements with creditors and returned the club to the Championship in 2012. In 2015, he sold the club to Thai businessman Dejphon Chansiri for £37.5 million.
What Controversies Or Legal Issues Has Milan Mandarić Faced?
Despite a generally successful career, Mandarić has faced legal scrutiny, particularly during his time in football.
Tax Evasion Allegations
In December 2009, Mandarić was charged with two counts of tax evasion in the UK. After a thorough trial process, he was found not guilty in February 2012. The court decision helped preserve his public and professional reputation.
Football Corruption Investigations
In 2007, he was arrested as part of a broader investigation into alleged corruption in football. Others involved included Harry Redknapp and Peter Storrie. No charges were brought against Mandarić, and he was released without further action.
How Has Milan Mandarić Influenced Football And Business?
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Mandarić has had a lasting impact on both the business and football worlds. His ability to apply core business principles to sports management has made him a standout figure in both industries.
Business Leadership And Global Impact
His leadership style is characterised by strategic decision-making, resilience, and a readiness to take calculated risks. These traits helped him build Lika Corporation and Sanmina into industry leaders and later guided his investments in financially unstable football clubs.
Continued Involvement In Football
Even in his later years, Mandarić remains connected to the sport. He currently serves as vice-president of Serbian club FK Vojvodina, continuing his lifelong commitment to football development and governance.
Conclusion
Milan Mandarić’s journey from a small-town machine shop in Yugoslavia to owning some of Europe’s most historic football clubs exemplifies resilience, vision, and strategic thinking.
With an estimated net worth of £100 million in 2025, his influence spans industries and continents.
His life reflects the impact of calculated risk-taking and dedication to long-term success. Whether in business or football, Mandarić has left a lasting mark, offering inspiration to entrepreneurs and sports investors around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Did Milan Mandarić Make His Money?
Mandarić made his fortune primarily through technology companies such as Lika Corporation and Sanmina, along with profits from football club ownership.
What Was Milan Mandarić’s Role In Leicester City?
He was the owner and later chairman, known for significant financial investment and frequent managerial changes that shaped the club’s direction.
How Much Did Milan Mandarić Sell Sheffield Wednesday For?
He sold Sheffield Wednesday for £37.5 million, including debt settlements and ownership transfer.
Is Milan Mandarić Still Involved In Football?
Yes, he is currently the Vice President of FK Vojvodina, a Serbian Superliga football club.
What Legal Troubles Did Mandarić Face?
He faced tax evasion charges in the UK but was acquitted in 2012. He was also questioned in a football corruption case but was not charged.
What Is The Source Of Milan Mandarić’s Net Worth?
His wealth stems from tech businessesThe Tech You Need To Launch Your Own Business, football club sales, and real estate investments.
How Much Was Milan Mandarić Worth According To The Times Rich List?
According to The Times Rich List, he was worth £75 million at one point and is now estimated at £100 million.
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