Mario Lemieux, one of the greatest hockey players of all time, has an estimated net worth of $220 million as of 2025. Born on October 5, 1965, he is currently 59 years old. His wealth comes from his legendary NHL career, ownership of the Pittsburgh Penguins, smart investments, and business ventures. Despite retiring from professional hockey, Lemieux continues to earn through his extensive sports-related enterprises and endorsement deals.
How Did Mario Lemieux Build His Hockey Legacy?
Lemieux began his professional career when he was selected as the first overall pick in the 1984 NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins. He immediately made an impact, earning the Calder Trophy for the best rookie in his debut season. Throughout his career, he won multiple Stanley Cups, was a six-time Art Ross Trophy winner (given to the league’s leading scorer), and secured three Hart Trophies as the NHL’s Most Valuable Player. Despite battling serious health issues, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma, he made one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history.
What Were His Highest Career Earnings?
Lemieux’s earnings peaked during the late 1990s and early 2000s, both from his playing contracts and lucrative sponsorship deals. Some of his biggest financial milestones include:
- Career NHL Salaries: During his playing days, Lemieux earned over $50 million from contracts with the Penguins. His highest annual salary was $11 million in the late 1990s.
- Endorsements: Over the years, he signed multimillion-dollar deals with Nike, Gatorade, and Sherwood Hockey, significantly boosting his earnings.
- Pittsburgh Penguins Ownership: After the Penguins struggled financially in the late 1990s, Lemieux converted his deferred salary into an ownership stake, a move that eventually turned into a $350 million franchise sale in 2021. His equity stake and leadership helped grow the team’s value, benefiting him financially in the long run.
How Did Lemieux Benefit from the Sale of the Pittsburgh Penguins?
In 2021, Lemieux and co-owner Ron Burkle sold the Pittsburgh Penguins to Fenway Sports Group for $900 million. Due to his significant stake, Lemieux reportedly earned around $150 million from the deal, further increasing his net worth. Despite selling the team, he retained an advisory role, ensuring continued influence in NHL operations.
What Are Mario Lemieux’s Current Investments and Business Ventures?
Lemieux has expanded his wealth through strategic investments outside hockey. Some of his most notable ventures include:
- Real Estate: Lemieux has invested in high-end properties, including a $20 million luxury mansion in Quebec, a vacation home in Florida, and commercial properties across North America.
- Golf & Hospitality: He co-owns a luxury golf resort and has stakes in multiple hospitality businesses, further diversifying his income sources.
- Tech & Startups: Over the past few years, Lemieux has put money into sports technology startups, particularly those focused on athlete performance tracking and fan engagement platforms.
How Has Philanthropy Played a Role in His Legacy?
Beyond his financial success, Lemieux is widely respected for his philanthropic efforts. The Mario Lemieux Foundation, established in 1993, has raised millions for cancer research and pediatric programs. After overcoming Hodgkin’s lymphoma himself, he dedicated resources to medical advancements, helping fund cancer research centers and hospitals in Pittsburgh and beyond.
What Is Mario Lemieux Doing in 2025?
Even though he has retired from professional hockey and stepped back from team ownership, Lemieux remains deeply involved in the sport. In 2025, he continues to serve as a hockey ambassador, offering insights on NHL development programs and mentoring young players. Additionally, his role in corporate advisory boards and media appearances keep him actively engaged in the business and sports world.
What’s Next for Mario Lemieux?
At 59 years old, Lemieux shows no signs of slowing down financially. His growing business empire, real estate portfolio, and strategic investments ensure that his net worth remains strong. With continued success in investments and media engagements, his wealth is expected to grow even further in the coming years.
