Former David Beckham has officially become Britain’s first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List, marking another milestone in the football icon’s remarkable post-playing career.
The publication estimated the combined wealth of Beckham and his wife, fashion entrepreneur and former Spice Girls member Victoria Beckham, at £1.185 billion ($1.583 billion).
The achievement places the Beckhams second among the wealthiest sports-related figures in the United Kingdom, behind the family of former Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone, whose fortune was valued at £2 billion.
Since retiring from professional football in 2013, Beckham has expanded his business empire through endorsements, investments, and sports ownership. He is currently co-owner of Inter Miami CF, now regarded as Major League Soccer’s most valuable club with an estimated worth of £1.07 billion.
The former England captain also maintains lucrative endorsement deals with global brands including Adidas and Hugo Boss.
During his illustrious football career, Beckham won multiple Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League with Manchester United before playing for top clubs including Real Madrid CF, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain F.C..
Victoria Beckham’s contribution to the family fortune has largely come from her successful fashion business, which she built after gaining global fame with the pop group Spice Girls.
The Rich List also highlighted several other prominent sports figures. Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton ranked fifth with an estimated £435 million fortune, while reigning Masters champion Rory McIlroy placed seventh with £325 million.
Heavyweight boxing stars Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury also featured prominently, with fortunes valued at £240 million and £162 million respectively.
Meanwhile, Harry Kane and retired tennis star Andy Murray were jointly ranked 10th, each worth an estimated £110 million.
Among business figures tied to sports, Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, experienced a decline in wealth. His fortune reportedly dropped by £1.85 billion to £15.194 billion after the value of petrochemicals giant INEOS was reduced amid rising debt and financial losses.
Promoters Barry Hearn and Eddie Hearn also entered Britain’s billionaire ranks, with their combined wealth estimated at £1.035 billion through the success of Matchroom Sport.
