Marcelo Claure at a Glance
Marcelo Claure: From Brightstar to Billionaire – A Comprehensive Look at His Net Worth and Career
Introduction: The Rise of Marcelo Claure
Marcelo Claure is a name synonymous with entrepreneurial success, strategic investment, and a dynamic career trajectory. From his humble beginnings in Bolivia to his current status as a billionaire businessman and investor, Claure’s journey is a compelling narrative of ambition, innovation, and global influence. This article delves into the life and career of Marcelo Claure, exploring his net worth, diverse business ventures, and significant contributions to the fields of telecommunications, technology, and sports.
Marcelo Claure’s Net Worth and Salary: A Detailed Analysis
Marcelo Claure has amassed a considerable fortune throughout his career, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the business world. As of the latest estimates, Marcelo Claure’s net worth is approximately $1.3 billion. This substantial wealth is the result of his successful ventures in various sectors, including telecommunications, technology, and investments. His salary at SoftBank, where he held high-level executive positions, was also a significant contributor to his financial standing. During his tenure, Claure was consistently among the highest-paid executives in Japan, with an annual salary that reportedly reached around $20 million. In 2021, he sought a multi-year contract potentially worth up to $2 billion, which reflects his significant value to the company. Upon his departure from SoftBank, he received a severance package estimated at $94 million, including a substantial payout and potential future incentives. These financial milestones underscore Claure’s successful career and strategic financial acumen.
Early Life and Education: The Foundations of a Global Entrepreneur
Raul Marcelo Claure Bedoya was born on December 9, 1970, in Guatemala to Bolivian parents. His early life was marked by international experiences, as his family moved to Morocco and the Dominican Republic before settling in La Paz, Bolivia. This exposure to different cultures likely shaped his global perspective and adaptability, qualities that would become invaluable in his future business endeavors. Claure received his education in Bolivia, attending the Instituto Domingo Savio and graduating from the American Cooperative School of La Paz in 1989. He then pursued higher education in the United States, first at the University of Lowell in Massachusetts and later at Bentley College in Waltham. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics and finance from Bentley, providing him with a strong foundation in business principles and financial management.
Career Beginnings: From Bolivia to the United States
After graduating from Bentley College, Claure returned to Bolivia, where he began his professional career. He took on the role of head of business operations at the Bolivian Football Federation, indicating an early interest in sports and business. In 1995, Claure moved back to the United States and purchased USA Wireless, a cellular retailer. He expanded the company before selling it the following year. This early experience demonstrated his entrepreneurial skills and ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities. Claure’s career then progressed to Small World Communications, where he served as president, further developing his leadership and management capabilities. His early career laid the groundwork for his future success in the telecommunications and technology sectors.
Brightstar and Sprint: Building a Wireless Empire
In 1997, Marcelo Claure founded Brightstar, a wireless services company, in Miami, Florida. As CEO, he focused on the Latin American market, recognizing the significant growth potential in that region. Brightstar quickly grew, forming a distribution agreement with Motorola for all of Latin America in 2001 and expanding to a global distribution agreement in 2007. This strategic partnership significantly boosted Brightstar’s market presence and revenue. In 2013, Claure sold a 57% stake in Brightstar to SoftBank for $1.3 billion, valuing the entire business at $2.2 billion. The remaining 42% of his ownership was worth approximately $1 billion. A year later, he orchestrated the full acquisition of Brightstar by Sprint. Claure was appointed President and CEO of Sprint in 2014, where he led a successful turnaround, adding over two million customers and achieving net income positivity for the first time in over a decade. He served as Executive Chairman of Sprint from 2018 to 2020, overseeing the merger with T-Mobile, and later joined the board of the combined company. His leadership transformed Sprint and solidified his reputation as a turnaround specialist and a key player in the telecommunications industry.
SoftBank Group: A Pivotal Chapter
In 2017, Claure joined the board of directors of SoftBank Group, a prominent technology investment company. He was later appointed COO in 2018, becoming a key executive within the organization. During his time at SoftBank, Claure oversaw a diverse portfolio of companies, including Boston Dynamics, Fortress, SB Energy, and WeWork, among others. He also led the SoftBank Latin America Fund, which was the largest technology fund focused exclusively on the Latin American market, and the SB Opportunity Fund, which invests in entrepreneurs of color. Additionally, Claure initiated the SoftBank Miami Initiative in early 2021, supporting startups in Miami. His multifaceted role at SoftBank showcased his ability to manage complex investments and contribute to the growth of a global technology conglomerate. His experience at SoftBank provided him with invaluable insights into technology investments, global markets, and strategic leadership.
Claure Group and Other Ventures: Expanding the Portfolio
In 2022, Claure founded the Claure Group, an investing firm where he serves as CEO. This venture signifies his continued interest in identifying and supporting promising businesses. The following year, he co-founded Bicycle Capital, a $500 million private equity fund that focuses on tech startups in Latin America, where he serves as Executive Chairman and Managing Partner. These initiatives reflect his ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs in the technology sector. Furthermore, Claure serves as the chair of Latin American operations for the fast-fashion retailer Shein, contributing his expertise to the company’s expansion in the region. His diverse portfolio of ventures highlights his adaptability, strategic acumen, and commitment to driving growth across various industries.
Sports Team Ownership: A Passion for Football
Marcelo Claure has a significant presence in the sports world, particularly in football. In 2008, he established a group that acquired ownership of Club Bolívar, a professional football team in Bolivia. This commitment to his home country’s sports scene demonstrates his national pride and passion for the sport. Later, in 2012, Claure partnered with David Beckham and Simon Fuller to launch Miami Beckham United, which led to the establishment of Inter Miami CF, a new Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. His involvement in Inter Miami CF brought him into the forefront of American soccer, contributing to the sport’s growth in the United States. Additionally, Claure is a co-owner of Girona FC, a Spanish professional football club. His sports ownership interests highlight his broader business strategy, as he sees opportunities to combine his passion for sports with business and investment opportunities.
Philanthropy: Giving Back to the Community
Beyond his business ventures, Marcelo Claure has also demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy. In 2008, he assisted Nicholas Negroponte in founding One Laptop Per Child, a non-profit initiative dedicated to providing low-cost laptop computers to disadvantaged students. In 2016, in partnership with Sprint, Claure launched the 1Million Project Foundation, which aimed to provide free computer and internet access to underserved students in the United States. Following the merger of Sprint with T-Mobile, the initiative was renamed Project 10Million. These philanthropic efforts showcase his dedication to giving back to the community and supporting educational opportunities for underprivileged children.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Marcelo Claure’s personal life is centered on his family. In 2005, he married Jordan Engard, and together they have four daughters and two sons. He also has a son and a daughter from a previous marriage. His family is an essential part of his life, and he balances his demanding career with his responsibilities as a husband and father. Despite the demands of his professional life, he prioritizes his family and maintains strong personal relationships.

(Photo by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images)
Conclusion: The Legacy of Marcelo Claure
Marcelo Claure’s journey from his early life in Bolivia to becoming a prominent global entrepreneur and investor is a testament to his vision, hard work, and strategic acumen. His net worth reflects his successful ventures in the telecommunications, technology, and sports industries. From his early career beginnings to his leadership roles at Brightstar, Sprint, and SoftBank, Claure has consistently demonstrated his ability to identify opportunities, drive growth, and lead successful turnarounds. His ongoing investments in various ventures, including the Claure Group, Bicycle Capital, and Shein, highlight his commitment to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs. Moreover, his involvement in sports, through his ownership of football teams and his philanthropic efforts, shows his dedication to giving back to the community and supporting educational opportunities. Marcelo Claure’s legacy will be one of entrepreneurial success, strategic investment, and a significant impact on global business and society.