Jim Irsay, the owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, passed away at the age of 65. The team announced his death, expressing their devastation, stating, 'We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon.' The announcement also highlighted Irsay's unwavering dedication to the Colts, his philanthropy, and his deep love for his family.

Irsay became the sole owner of the Colts in 1997 after inheriting the franchise from his father. Earlier, he distinguished himself as the youngest general manager in the history of the franchise, taking on the role in 1984 when the team relocated from Baltimore to Indianapolis. The team's statement underscored Irsay's impact beyond football, noting, 'Jim's generosity can be felt all over Indianapolis, the state of Indiana, and the country.' His commitment to philanthropy was evident in his efforts to support multiple organizations and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of individuals.

Under Irsay's ownership, the Colts enjoyed significant success, making 14 playoff appearances in a 16-year span from 1999 to 2014. This era was marked by the leadership of quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck. The pinnacle of this success came in Super Bowl XLI during the 2006 season, which remains the only Lombardi Trophy for the city of Indianapolis. Additionally, Irsay's tenure was characterized by his ability to assemble a roster filled with legendary players, including Manning, Marvin Harrison Sr., Reggie Wayne, Edgerrin James, and Dwight Freeney. Irsay also had a passion for music, often performing with the Jim Irsay Band and showcasing his extensive collection of music memorabilia, which included artifacts from iconic artists. Notably, he launched the 'Kicking the Stigma' initiative in 2020 to raise awareness about mental health issues and combat the stigma surrounding mental illness. Irsay is survived by his three daughters, ten grandchildren, and his ex-wife.