wsvn
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — After more than a decade at the helm, Tom Garfinkel is relinquishing his roles as president and chief executive officer of the Miami Dolphins, the franchise confirmed on Tuesday. The announcement came as part of a broader restructuring within the organization's leadership hierarchy.
Garfinkel will not be severing ties entirely; instead, he will assume the position of vice chairman for both the Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, while also retaining his role as managing partner of the Miami Grand Prix. However, he is stepping back from the daily operational duties that have defined his tenure since 2013.
In a related move, the Dolphins revealed that Daniel Sillman, who is married to owner Stephen Ross's daughter, will now oversee all football operations. Head coach Jeff Hafley, general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, and executive vice president of football operations Brandon Shore will all report directly to Sillman. Additionally, Sillman has been appointed CEO of Ross Sports & Entertainment, a newly formed umbrella company that consolidates Ross's sports holdings, including the Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, the Miami Grand Prix, the Miami Open tennis tournament, and the Precision Drive Club.
Sillman brings a background in sports media rights as co-founder and executive chairman of Relevent, a company specializing in that sector.
Ross praised Garfinkel's impact, stating, "Tom has had one of the most impactful executive tenures in professional sports history. When he joined our organization, we envisioned creating a world-class sports and entertainment company that would redefine what was possible for a franchise, a stadium and a community. Together we turned that vision into reality." Ross also expressed gratitude that Garfinkel will continue as vice chairman and trusted advisor to both him and Sillman.
Key Analysis
Garfinkel's leadership was instrumental in transforming the Dolphins' business operations. He played a pivotal role in securing Formula 1 racing for Miami via the Miami Grand Prix, with the event locked in through 2041. He also negotiated a 30-year agreement to host the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium and successfully bid for major events, including the 2020 Super Bowl, the 2021 and 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship games, and seven matches during the 2026 World Cup.
Reflecting on his decision, Garfinkel said, "I love the Dolphins and the people here, but after 13 years it was just the right time for me to make this decision. The business has never been in a better place and the team of people we have here is second to none in sports."
Originally reported by wsvn.