CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTW) – Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson announced Sunday that he will sell the team following the 2017 season.
In a letter posted to the Panthers website, Richardson says after more than two decades of owning the NFL team that it is time for new ownership.
Richardson says he will not begin the sale until every game in the season is played.
81-year-old Richardson is the focus of an investigation into workplace misconduct.
The NFL announced Sunday that the league would take over the investigation.
Read the full letter posted to the Panthers website:
There has been no greater mission or purpose in my life than to have brought an NFL franchise to Charlotte. The obstacles back then were significant, and some even questioned whether our community could or would support professional football. But I always know that if given the chance, The Carolinas would rise to the occasion.
And you have. The team has become an integral part of our community. The stadium is in the best condition since the day it opened. And we have played in two Super Bowls.
Football is also an integral part of my life – and I am blessed, every day, that I made the Carolinas my home. I can never repay all of you for the kindness and generosity you have shown me, Rosalind, and my family for more than two decades. We have the best fans in football – and I truly mean that. In my opinion, we also have the best organization, and they have served us well.
I believe that it is time to turn the franchise over to new ownership. Therefore, I will put the team up for sale at the conclusion of this NFL season. We will not begin the sale process, nor will we entertain any inquiries, until the very last game is played. I hope everyone in this organization, both on and off the field, will be firmly focused on just one mission: to play and win the Super Bowl.
While I will no longer be the team owner, I will always be the Panthers Number One fan.
With respect. Always.
Jerry Richardson