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Beckham tops UK sports wealth rankings
Former England football captain David Beckham has achieved a historic milestone as the first UK athlete to reach billionaire status, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List.
The 51-year-old, who was knighted last November, and his wife Victoria now hold a combined fortune of £1.185 billion. This places them second among British sports figures, trailing only the Ecclestone family, whose wealth stands at £2 billion.
Wealth breakdown and business ventures
Beckham's financial portfolio includes his stake in Inter Miami CF, valued at $1.45 billion (£1.07 billion), making it Major League Soccer's most valuable franchise. His long-standing brand partnerships with Adidas and Hugo Boss have also contributed significantly to his wealth.
Victoria Beckham's fashion label remains a key asset, building on her earlier fame as a member of the Spice Girls.
Other notable entries in the sports rich list
Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy ranks seventh with £325 million, following his back-to-back Masters victories. Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton holds fifth place with £435 million, while England football captain Harry Kane and tennis star Andy Murray share the tenth spot with £110 million each.
Boxing figures feature prominently, with promoters Barry and Eddie Hearn entering the billionaire club at £1.035 billion. Anthony Joshua ranks eighth with £240 million, just ahead of Tyson Fury at £162 million.
Shifts in the overall rankings
Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has seen his fortune decline by £1.85 billion, dropping from seventh to ninth place overall with a net worth of £15.194 billion. Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys retain their position as the world's most valuable sports team.
Beckham's reaction to knighthood
"Something I could never imagine," Beckham said of his knighthood, reflecting on the honor bestowed upon him last year.
