The Springboks have set the standard on the international stage – and many of their biggest stars are being paid accordingly.
From huge-money contracts in Japan Rugby League One to lucrative deals in South Africa, boosted by national top-ups, Rassie Erasmus’ world champions include some of the highest-paid players in rugby.
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Exact figures are rarely disclosed, particularly in Japan, so the estimates below are based on reported contracts and industry sources.
But who earns the most? Here are the highest-paid Springboks in 2026, ranked from 10 to 1.
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10. Lood de Jager (Saitama Wild Knights) – Estimated £450,000–£600,000
After overcoming a series of injury setbacks, De Jager has re-established himself as one of the world's premier locks. His lineout expertise, experience and leadership make him a prized asset for both the Wild Knights and the Springboks.
9. Manie Libbok (Hanazono Kintetsu Liners) – Estimated £500,000–£600,000
Libbok's move to Japan significantly increased his earning power. The gifted fly-half remains one of rugby's most exciting attacking talents and is among the latest Springboks to benefit from League One's financial strength.
8. Handré Pollard (Vodacom Bulls) – Estimated £600,000–£650,000
The double Rugby World Cup-winning fly-half returned to South Africa in one of the biggest deals in the country's professional era. While he turned down the opportunity to remain overseas, his Bulls package still ranks among the richest in the URC.
7. Jesse Kriel (Yokohama Canon Eagles) – Estimated £600,000–£750,000
A consistent performer for club and country, Kriel has become one of Japan's most respected overseas stars. His versatility across the backline and leadership qualities have helped secure one of the league's most valuable contracts.
6. Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz) – Estimated £700,000–£850,000
A two-time World Rugby Player of the Year, Du Toit remains one of the sport's biggest names. His relentless work rate and world-class pedigree ensure he continues to command one of rugby's most lucrative contracts.
5. Eben Etzebeth (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – Estimated £770,000
The most-capped Springbok in history remains the cornerstone of the Sharks pack. His combination of club earnings and national support keeps him among the highest-paid players in South African rugby.
4. Siya Kolisi (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – Estimated £775,000
The Springbok captain returned to Durban on a bumper deal after his spell in France. Combined with his immense commercial value and sponsorship appeal, Kolisi remains one of the biggest earners in the global game.
3. Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears) – Estimated £800,000–£900,000
Widely regarded as the best hooker in world rugby, Marx continues to be one of Japan Rugby League One's marquee signings. His dominance at the set-piece and breakdown has made him one of the highest-paid forwards in the sport.
2. Damian de Allende (Saitama Wild Knights) – Estimated £850,000–£950,000
The powerful centre has been a standout performer in Japan for several seasons. A two-time Rugby World Cup winner and one of the world's most complete midfielders, De Allende is believed to be among the competition's top earners.
1. Faf de Klerk (Free State Cheetahs) – Previously reported at around £900,000 in Japan
Before returning to South Africa in 2026, De Klerk was widely regarded as one of the highest-paid players in world rugby thanks to his lucrative deal with Yokohama Canon Eagles. While his move back to the Cheetahs is believed to have involved a significant pay cut, his previous contract remains one of the richest ever awarded to a Springbok.
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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