Finn Russell is the world's highest-paid rugby player after signing new contract

Finn Russell signed a new contract last summer that keeps him at The Rec until June 2028, putting him firmly in the frame as the highest-paid player on the planet.

The move thwarts serious interest from Racing 92 and Bristol Bears, ensuring Bath’s talismanic No.10 remains at the heart of their project for years to come.

Since arriving in 2023 on a three-year deal, Russell has been nothing short of a revelation. In 45 appearances, he’s racked up 420 points, including four tries, and topped the Gallagher Premiership charts in 2024/25 with 183 points.

His brilliance was central to Bath’s historic season, as Johann van Graan’s men clinched a domestic and European treble. Now, at 32, Russell remains pivotal to the club’s ambitions for the next three seasons.

With interest from abroad and closer to home brushed aside, Bath fans can now look forward to seeing Russell continue to light up The Rec until at least 2028.

Club: Hollywoodbets Sharks (South Africa)
Country: South Africa

South Africa’s inspirational captain and two-time Rugby World Cup winner brings leadership, experience, and star power to Durban. Known for his tactical acumen, fierce work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure, he has become one of the most respected figures in world rugby.

Since joining the Sharks, he has been instrumental in mentoring younger players and driving the team’s performance on and off the field. He earns £775,000 annually and remains a central figure in South Africa’s rugby landscape, both domestically and internationally.

Club: Saracens (England)
Country: England

A modern lock in every sense. Itoje blends relentless work rate with elite athleticism, lineout mastery, and breakdown menace.

One of England’s most influential forwards of the professional era, his value goes beyond stats — he’s a leader, disruptor, and big-game performer. A future overseas move could easily push him higher on this list.

Club: Yokohama Canon Eagles (Japan)
Country: South Africa

The ultimate livewire scrum-half. Faf brings chaos, intensity, and unmatched competitiveness to every ruck and breakdown. His box kicking, defensive edge, and leadership helped redefine the modern No. 9. A fan favourite wherever he plays, his move to Japan reflects both his marketability and enduring quality.

Club: Tokyo Sungoliath (Japan)
Country: South Africa

Electric. Elusive. Deadly in space. Kolbe’s footwork and acceleration make him one of the most feared backs in world rugby. A World Cup winner with Springbok DNA, he turns half-chances into highlights and commands one of Japan’s biggest contracts as a result.

Club: Toulouse
Country: France

The gold standard for modern rugby players. Dupont combines brute strength, elite speed, tactical intelligence, and outrageous skill. Whether at scrum-half or on the sevens circuit, he dominates games like few before him. Widely regarded as the best player on the planet — and paid accordingly.

Club: Bath Rugby (England)
Country: Scotland

Rugby’s ultimate maverick. Russell plays flat, fast, and fearless — capable of unlocking any defence with a pass nobody else sees. His move to Bath made him the world’s highest-paid player, and when he’s on song, few fly-halves can control a game like him. Pure box-office rugby.