USATSI

The Detroit Lions have announced on Tuesday that Martha Ford is stepping down as the principal owner of the franchise. Ford has led the Lions since 2014, taking over the role of principal owner following the death of her husband, William Clay Ford. Now, the team announces that Ford's daughter, Sheila Ford Hamp, will succeed her mother as the club's principal owner and chairman. 

"It has been a great honor for our family to be associated with the Lions and with the National Football League," Ford, 94, said in a statement released by the team. "I am gratified that this family tradition, which my husband and I began almost six decades ago, will continue under Sheila's guiding hand. It is clear to me that Sheila will provide superb leadership and is fully committed to competitive excellence and community involvement."

Hamp was appointed to the NFL's Super Bowl and Major Events advisory committee last year and has been a fixture within the organization especially after Ford took control in 2014. 

"My mother has inspired all of us since taking on leadership of the Lions over six years ago," Hamp said. "She has been a tireless leader to our family, our team and our community. Her smart decisions have given me a solid foundation to take the team forward. On behalf of the family and the team, I want to thank her for her countless contributions. I look forward to leading the Lions to excellence on and off the field."

After having a minority stake in the franchise beginning in 1961, the Ford's originally gained total control of the organization back in November of 1963 when William Ford bought out the other 144 shareholders for $4.5 million.

"Martha Ford has led the Lions with skill and grace for the past six seasons," said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement. "I have appreciated her business insights, her love of the game, her deep commitment to the NFL, and her personal kindness.  We are pleased that the Ford family will continue to own and operate this historic franchise.  Sheila Hamp has become increasingly involved in team and league affairs over the past several years and we look forward to working with her and the rest of the club's executive team."

Under Hamp, the Lions will try to build a Super Bowl winner, something the organization hasn't been able to achieve in its history.