Dallas Cowboys named world's "most valuable" sports franchise

DALLAS, July 13 (UPI) -- For the first time since the creation of its list in 2011, Forbes named a non-soccer team as its most valuable sports franchise.

The Dallas Cowboys topped this year's list, with a value of $4 billion. Real Madrid was No. 1 for the last three years, following Manchester United's stint in 2011 and 2012.

Now Madrid placed No. 2 at $3.65 billion and Barcelona ranked No. 3 at $3.55 billion. The New York Yankees ranked fourth at $3.4 billion, followed by Manchester United at $3.32 billion.

A total of 27 NFL franchises cracked the top 50, while eight European soccer clubs made the top 50. The Cowboys last won the Super Bowl in 1995. Jerry Jones' franchise is worth 25 percent more than it was last year.