John Mara, the 70-year-old president, chief executive officer and co-owner of the Giants, has recently been diagnosed with cancer.
He is undergoing treatment, according to a statement he released Monday afternoon.
“I have recently been diagnosed with cancer and have been following the treatment plan recommended by an outstanding team of doctors,’’ Mara’s statement said. “I’m feeling strong and optimistic, and I’m committed to seeing this through to a positive outcome. I plan to remain active with the team throughout my treatment, and I’m fortunate to be surrounded by incredible support—personally, professionally, and medically. I ask that you respect my privacy and my family’s privacy at this time.”
Mara was in attendance at MetLife Stadium on Sunday as the Giants beat the Chargers, 21-18, for the Giants’ first victory of the season after losing their first three games.
Unlike many NFL owners, Mara is a constant presence in the team facility, with an office in the building. He is frequently on the field to watch practice and is in daily contact with general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll.
The type of cancer Mara has and the stage and severity of the diagnosis were not revealed at this time.
Mara is the oldest son of the late Wellington Mara, a franchise patriarch, whose own father, Tim, purchased the franchise for $500 in 1925.
John Mara has a law degree from Fordham University Law School and worked as a labor and employment lawyer and litigator prior to joining the Giants in 1991. He became the team president in 2005 following his father’s death.
In 1990, the Tisch family purchased 50 percent of the Giants for $75 million. Steve Tisch is currently the co-owner of the team, along with John Mara.
Recently, investor Julia Koch and other members of the billionaire Koch family agreed to buy a minority stake of 10 percent in the Giants. The franchise is valued at $10 billion.
