As crunch time approaches for the sale of the Carolina Panthers, bidders ranging from a hedge fund manager to a financial services CEO to an internet entrepreneur have emerged as leading candidates.
The potential owners also have strong sports pedigrees, including stakes in other sports teams, and deep family roots.
So far, three names have surfaced as likely bidders – Charleston businessman Ben Navarro, Philadelphia e-commerce innovator Michael Rubin and Miami hedge fund manager David Tepper – but it’s not clear if any other will surface. Charlotte businessman Felix Sabates has spearheaded a potential local ownership group, but a source said he might look at partnering with another bidder.