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Former England captain Sir David Beckham has become the first British sportsman to reach billionaire status, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List.
The publication estimates that Beckham and his wife Victoria Beckham now hold a combined fortune of £1.185 billion, making them one of the wealthiest celebrity couples in the United Kingdom. Their financial success places them second among sports-related figures on the list, behind former Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone and his family, whose wealth is estimated at £2 billion.
Beckham's rise to billionaire status reflects his successful transition from football icon to global businessman. Since retiring from professional football, the 51 year old has built a vast business empire through investments, endorsements and sports ownership.
One of his most valuable ventures is Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, which he co-owns. The American side has grown rapidly in recent years and is now estimated to be worth around $1.45 billion, making it the most valuable franchise in MLS.
Beyond football, Beckham continues to earn heavily through partnerships with major international brands including Adidas and Hugo Boss. His commercial appeal has remained strong decades after his playing career, helping him become one of the most marketable athletes in history.
Victoria Beckham has also played a major role in the couple's wealth. After rising to fame in the 1990s as a member of the Spice Girls, she successfully established herself in the fashion industry. Her luxury fashion label and beauty business have become important contributors to the family's growing fortune.
The Sunday Times Rich List also highlighted several other notable figures from the sports world. Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy ranked seventh among sports personalities with an estimated wealth of £325 million following another successful year that included back to back Masters victories.
Seven time Formula 1 world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton placed fifth with an estimated fortune of £435 million, while heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua ranked eighth at £240 million. Tyson Fury followed closely behind with wealth estimated at £162 million.
England football captain Harry Kane and former tennis star Sir Andy Murray were jointly ranked tenth among sports figures, each with an estimated £110 million.
Elsewhere, sports promoters Barry and Eddie Hearn also joined Britain's billionaire club with a combined fortune estimated at £1.035 billion. The father and son duo have built Matchroom Sport into one of the leading promotional companies in boxing, darts and snooker.
Meanwhile, Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe saw his wealth fall significantly. His fortune dropped by £1.85 billion to £15.194 billion, causing him to slip from seventh to ninth place overall on the UK rich list.
