David Beckham becomes first British billionaire sportsman

David Beckham has become Britain's first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List. His and wife Victoria's combined wealth reached an estimated £1.185 billion this year. This places them second among the UK's wealthiest sportspeople, behind the Ecclestone family. Beckham's fortune stems from his post-playing career, including co-ownership of Inter Miami and brand endorsements, while Victoria's wealth comes from her fashion label. Other notable sports figures on the list include Lewis Hamilton, Rory McIlroy, Anthony Joshua, and Tyson Fury.

Crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne has entered the UK rich list at number six with an estimated fortune of £18.2 billion, making him the richest British-born individual. Harborne is notable for a controversial £5 million gift to Nigel Farage, which is currently under investigation by the parliamentary standards watchdog. Other notable first-time entrants to the Sunday Times Rich List include Noel and Liam Gallagher, Emily Eavis, and David and Victoria Beckham. The Hinduja family retained the top spot with a wealth of £38 billion. The list ranks the 350 wealthiest UK residents and Britons abroad.