David Beckham has become Britain’s first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List.
The former Manchester United and England captain reached the milestone with his wife Victoria Beckham. Their combined wealth now stands at an estimated £1.185 billion.
That places them second among the UK’s richest sports figures. Only the family of former Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone ranks higher with £2 billion.
Beckham retired from football in 2013 but has built a huge business empire since leaving the pitch. He is a co-owner of Inter Miami, now valued at around £1.07 billion and seen as Major League Soccer’s most valuable club.
The 51-year-old also earns heavily from major brand deals with companies such as Adidas and Hugo Boss.
Beckham enjoyed a glittering football career. He captained England and won the Premier League and Champions League with Manchester United. He also played for Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.
Victoria Beckham has also played a major role in their wealth growth. After rising to fame with the Spice Girls, she built a successful fashion business.
Lewis Hamilton ranks fifth on the sports rich list with an estimated fortune of £435 million.
Masters champion Rory McIlroy is seventh with £325 million.
Anthony Joshua sits eighth with £240 million, while Tyson Fury is ninth on £162 million.
Harry Kane and Andy Murray share 10th place, with both valued at £110 million.
Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe dropped down the wider Rich List after his wealth fell by £1.85 billion to £15.194 billion.
The value of his company INEOS was cut to £17 billion because of rising debt, lower revenues and a loss of £515.7 million.
Barry and Eddie Hearn also joined Britain’s billionaire club this year.
Their combined wealth is estimated at £1.035 billion through Matchroom Sport, one of the biggest names in boxing, darts and snooker promotion.
