Sir David Beckham has secured his place in British sporting history by becoming the nation's first billionaire athlete, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List published today.
The former England captain and his wife Victoria now possess a combined fortune estimated at £1.185 billion.
This remarkable achievement positions the couple as the second wealthiest sporting figures in Britain.
Only the family of former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone ranks higher, with their wealth calculated at £2 billion.
Sir David Beckham was knighted in November
| PAThe 51-year-old, who received his knighthood in November, retired from professional football in 2013 but has since constructed an impressive commercial empire.
Beckham's financial ascent has been propelled significantly by his stake in Inter Miami CF, the Major League Soccer franchise he co-owns.
The American club is now valued at approximately £1.07 billion, establishing it as the most valuable team in the league.
Beyond football ownership, the former Manchester United midfielder maintains highly profitable partnerships with global brands.
His ambassador roles with sportswear giant Adidas and fashion house Hugo Boss continue to generate substantial annual income.
David Beckham's wealth stems from his ownership of MLS outfit Inter Miami
|GETTY
Victoria Beckham has contributed meaningfully to the family's wealth through her successful luxury fashion label, having first risen to prominence as a member of the Spice Girls.
Boxing and sports promotion powerhouses Barry and Eddie Hearn have also crossed the billion-pound threshold in this year's rankings.
The father and son duo now command a combined fortune estimated at £1.035 billion.
Barry Hearn established Matchroom Sport and serves as its president, building the organisation into one of Britain's foremost promoters across multiple disciplines.
The company holds a dominant position in boxing, darts and snooker promotion.
His son Eddie chairs the organisation and has overseen its continued expansion.
Eddie Hearn notably promotes heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua, who himself features prominently on the sporting rich list with an estimated £240 million fortune.
David Beckham's Inter Miami made their MLS debut in 2020
| REUTERSSir Jim Ratcliffe has experienced a significant decline in his financial standing, falling from seventh to ninth position in the overall UK rankings.
The Manchester United co-owner saw his wealth diminish by £1.85 billion, leaving him with a fortune of £15.194 billion.
The drop has been attributed to difficulties at his petrochemicals firm INEOS, including mounting debt, declining revenues and losses exceeding £515 million.
Elsewhere on the sporting rich list, seven-time Formula One world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton occupies fifth place with £435 million.
Rory McIlroy is also on the list, ranking seventh
| GETTYNorthern Ireland golfer Rory McIlroy, fresh from consecutive Masters triumphs, sits seventh with £325 million.
Heavyweight rival Tyson Fury follows Joshua in ninth position with £162 million, whilst England captain Harry Kane and Sir Andy Murray share tenth place at £110 million apiece.