10 Rugby stars who became millionaires away from the game

Rugby News
Wednesday, 24 June 2026 at 22:03
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Professional rugby may not offer the astronomical salaries seen in football, but plenty of the sport's biggest names have shown there's serious money to be made away from the pitch.
From launching businesses and investing in start-ups to opening pubs and building wellness brands, these stars have turned their rugby success into thriving commercial careers.
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10. Alun Wyn Jones

Wales legend Alun Wyn Jones has moved into business since retiring, launching his own premium Welsh rum brand, Mimosa Rwm. Alongside ambassador work and property interests, the former British & Irish Lions captain has embraced entrepreneurship while remaining one of Welsh rugby's most recognisable figures.

9. Brian O'Driscoll

Ireland icon Brian O'Driscoll has become one of rugby's most active investors. His portfolio includes sports technology company Output Sports, healthcare start-up T-Pro and several other Irish businesses. Combined with his television punditry and commercial partnerships, O'Driscoll has built an impressive business portfolio.

8. James Haskell

James Haskell has successfully reinvented himself since retirement. Alongside co-hosting The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast, he has launched Cooking With The Calves, authored bestselling books, appeared regularly on television and established himself as one of rugby's most in-demand keynote speakers.

7. Mike Tindall

England World Cup winner Mike Tindall has built a hugely successful media career through The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast, television appearances and corporate speaking. He has also worked with a range of major brands and invested in several commercial ventures.

6. Johnny Sexton

Following his retirement, Johnny Sexton has expanded into business through ambassador roles with Pinergy and Optimum Nutrition, alongside corporate speaking engagements and private investments. The former Ireland captain remains one of the country's most marketable sporting figures.

5. Jonny Wilkinson

England's World Cup hero has become a successful entrepreneur through wellness drinks company No.1 Living, which he co-founded. Wilkinson also launched menswear label Fineside, while continuing to earn acclaim as an author, leadership speaker and performance consultant.

4. Dan Carter

Dan Carter has leveraged his global profile into a successful business career. The All Blacks great has invested in health and wellness companies including Healthspan Elite, while maintaining high-profile partnerships with brands such as Land Rover and ASICS.

3. Beauden Barrett

Still playing at the highest level, Beauden Barrett has already built an impressive off-field portfolio. The All Black is involved in health and wellness venture Be Well, has significant farming and property investments in New Zealand and continues to work with brands including ASICS.

2. Ellis Genge

Ellis Genge has shown his entrepreneurial side by launching SYN, a premium fitness and performance brand based in Bristol. The business combines a high-performance gym, apparel and supplements, making Genge one of English rugby's leading athlete-entrepreneurs.

1. Jamie George

England captain Jamie George has quietly built one of the strongest business portfolios in rugby. Alongside his involvement with Project 111 Physiotherapy and his role as a director of EightyEight Sports & Entertainment, George became a co-owner of The Boundary, a sports pub in Fulham backed by several leading international cricketers. The venue has quickly established itself as a popular destination for live sport, demonstrating George's ambition beyond the rugby field.

Can you name every England Rugby captain of the professional era?

From the early days of professionalism to the modern era, England has seen a host of legendary captains wearing the armband.
Whether it's the grit of Will Carling in the 90s, the tactical brilliance of Martin Johnson, or the fearless leadership of Owen Farrell, this quiz will challenge even the most dedicated fans.
Think you can name them all? Grab your boots and let's see how well you know the men who led England into battle on the world stage!
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