Former Manchester United and England star David Beckham has become Britain’s first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List.
Beckham and his wife Victoria now have a combined estimated wealth of £1.185 billion ($1.583 billion), the report said.
This places them second among the UK’s richest sports figures, behind the family of former Formula One chief executive Bernie Ecclestone, whose wealth is estimated at £2 billion.
Beckham, who retired from professional football in 2013, is a co-owner of Inter Miami, currently valued at around £1.07 billion, making it Major League Soccer’s most valuable club.
The 51-year-old also earns significant income through global brand ambassador deals with companies such as Adidas and Hugo Boss.
During his playing career, Beckham captained England and won major trophies including the Premier League and UEFA Champions League with Manchester United, before later spells at Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Victoria Beckham has also contributed significantly to the family’s wealth through her successful fashion label, following her rise to fame as a member of the Spice Girls.
Other names on the rich list include seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, ranked fifth with an estimated £435 million fortune, and Masters golf champion Rory McIlroy, ranked seventh with £325 million.
Boxer Anthony Joshua is placed eighth with £240 million, just ahead of Tyson Fury in ninth with £162 million.
England striker Harry Kane and retired tennis star Andy Murray share tenth place, each with an estimated £110 million.
Among business figures with sporting ties, Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has seen his position fall after a decline in his overall wealth.
Promoters Barry and Eddie Hearn have also entered the billionaire club, with a combined estimated wealth of £1.035 billion.
