By Paul Joseph
Former England captain David Beckham has become the United Kingdom’s first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List.
The report estimated the combined wealth of Beckham and his wife, Victoria Beckham, at £1.185 billion.
The Beckhams ranked second among sports-related figures on the list, behind the family of former Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone, whose fortune was estimated at £2 billion.
Beckham, a former Manchester United midfielder and England captain, is currently a co-owner of Inter Miami CF, which is regarded as Major League Soccer’s most valuable franchise.
The 51-year-old, who was knighted in November 2025, also earns substantial income through endorsement deals with brands including Adidas and Hugo Boss.
Victoria Beckham’s wealth has largely come from her successful fashion business after rising to fame as a member of the Spice Girls.
Meanwhile, Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy ranked seventh among sports personalities on the list with an estimated fortune of £325 million following his back-to-back Masters victories.
Promoters Barry and Eddie Hearn also joined Britain’s billionaire club with a combined estimated wealth of £1.035 billion through their sports promotion company, Matchroom Sport.
British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua was ranked eighth on the sports rich list with £240 million, one place above fellow heavyweight Tyson Fury, whose fortune was estimated at £162 million.
Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton ranked fifth with £435 million, while Harry Kane and Andy Murray were joint 10th with £110 million each.
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