Arthur Blank
The co-founder of The Home Depot who brought an MLS Cup to Atlanta.
Arthur Blank is an American businessman and the Chairman of AMB Group LLC, the parent company overseeing Atlanta United FC. Born on September 27, 1942, in Flushing, Queens, to Jewish parents Max and Molly Blank, he co-founded The Home Depot with Bernard Marcus after both were fired from Handy Dan in 1978. Following a successful business career that included serving as president for 19 years before retiring as co-chairman in 2001, Blank turned his attention to professional sports ownership in Atlanta. He currently owns the Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta Drive GC of TGL, and Atlanta United FC of Major League Soccer. Under his leadership, Atlanta United won the 2018 MLS Cup, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in American soccer history.
- Previous Ownership
- Rankin Smith
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Blank's entry into professional sports began in February 2002 when he purchased the NFL's Atlanta Falcons from the estate of Rankin Smith. His vision expanded significantly with the founding of an expansion Major League Soccer franchise named Atlanta United FC, which officially began play in 2017. This team shares Mercedes-Benz Stadium with the Falcons, a venue Blank helped design to prioritize fan engagement. The club achieved immediate historic success, winning the 2018 MLS Cup within its first few seasons of operation. In 2023, he further diversified his portfolio by purchasing Atlanta Drive GC of TGL, which will compete in the inaugural TGL season starting January 2025 at SoFi Center.
In Their Own Story
The path to ownership began with a significant turning point in Blank's career: the internal power struggle at Handy Dan Home Improvement Centers that led to his firing alongside CEO Bernard Marcus in 1978. Rather than retreating, they co-founded The Home Depot later that year, with New York investment banker Ken Langone assembling the initial investors and merchandising expert Patrick Farrah helping realize their vision of one-stop shopping for do-it-yourselfers. The first two stores opened on June 22, 1979, in Atlanta, revolutionizing the home improvement business through a warehouse concept that eventually made both men billionaires. Decades later, Blank applied this same transformative energy to sports. On May 22, 2024, his lifelong dedication was recognized when he won the Sports Business Journal's Lifetime Achievement Award specifically for his work with the Falcons, United FC, and the surrounding community.
Reader's Guide
To understand Arthur Blank's impact on Atlanta, one must look at his diverse portfolio of teams and facilities. He owns the Atlanta Falcons (NFL), Atlanta Drive GC of TGL, Atlanta United FC (MLS), and a to-be-named expansion team for the National Women's Soccer League set to begin play in 2028. Fans can witness this legacy at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where Atlanta United plays, or follow the TGL action with Atlanta Drive GC. His philanthropic footprint is equally prominent; his foundation donated $200 million to open the Arthur M. Blank Hospital on September 29, 2024. Additionally, in October 2020, he established the Arthur M. Blank Center for Stuttering Education and Research at the University of Texas at Austin with a $20 million legacy grant.
Did You Know?
- Blank was born in Flushing, Queens, New York, to parents Max and Molly Blank.
- He co-founded The Home Depot with Bernard Marcus after both were fired from Handy Dan in 1978; the first two stores opened on June 22, 1979.
- Atlanta United FC won the MLS Cup in 2018 under his ownership.
- In October 2020, his foundation donated $200 million to establish the Arthur M. Blank Hospital, which opened on April 29, 2024.
- Blank owns a 90-meter superyacht named dreAMBoat and several PGA TOUR Superstores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Arthur Blank to Atlanta United FC?
He serves as the Chairman and Co-Founder, acting as the primary visionary behind bringing Major League Soccer to Atlanta. His leadership established the club's foundation after securing the expansion bid that launched the team in 2014.
What is Arthur Blank's specific role within the organization?
Beyond financial backing, he shapes the team's identity and culture while advocating for the iconic red and white colors. He oversees strategic decisions to ensure the organization builds a world-class soccer environment.
Why is Arthur Blank considered important to Atlanta United?
As a founding father of Atlanta soccer, his passion transformed the city into a global soccer powerhouse. His previous success with the Atlanta Falcons demonstrated his ability to drive high-energy fan engagement.
What professional background does Arthur Blank bring to the team?
Before MLS, he was a prominent executive at The Home Depot and owns the NFL's Atlanta Falcons. He leveraged this business experience to secure Atlanta's expansion bid in 2014.
What is Arthur Blank's lasting legacy with the club?
His legacy remains defined as the architect who built the high-energy atmosphere fans experience today. He continues to guide the franchise toward long-term success and global recognition.
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