Nov. 5 (Bloomberg) -- New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner praised his team for its record-extending 27th World Series title, saying it was a special way to cap the first season in a new $1.5 billion stadium.

Steinbrenner, 79, has made few public appearances in recent years because of poor health and didn’t travel from his home in Tampa, Florida, to attend last night’s series-clinching win over the Philadelphia Phillies in New York.

It was the Yankees’ seventh World Series title since Steinbrenner, who’s nicknamed “The Boss,” purchased the team in 1973. He turned over day-to-day operations of the franchise to son Hal last year.

“Every World Series victory is special, but this one is especially sweet coming in the first year in our new home,” Steinbrenner said in a statement.

The Yankees led Major League Baseball with 103 wins during the regular season, then swept the Minnesota Twins for their first win in a playoff series since 2004. After beating the Los Angeles Angels in the American League Championship Series, the Yankees ended an eight-year title drought with their six-game World Series win over the Phillies.

“As we did all season long, we fought hard, never lost focus and gave a true team victory,” said Steinbrenner. “Our players have a lot to be proud of. This group will become legendary -- similar to the 26 world championship teams that preceded them. Joe Girardi and his team deserve great credit for racking up wins over a long, tough season.”

Steinbrenner also thanked Yankee fans for their support and said he’s looking ahead to next season.

“We’ll enjoy this win,” he said. “And the quest for number 28 begins.”

To contact the reporter on this story: Erik Matuszewski at Yankee Stadium in New York at matuszewski@bloomberg.net

Last Updated: November 5, 2009 16:43 EST