Marcus Smith is one of rugby’s richest stars with huge net worth

Friday, 14 February 2025 at 18:53

byRugby Rucker

The rugby world isn’t just about bone-crunching tackles and highlight-reel tries—it’s also a stage where fortunes are built.

Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!

From iconic players to unexpected names, here’s the ultimate countdown of rugby’s wealthiest stars.

Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community for all the latest news direct to your phone.

10. Marcus Smith – £1.46 million ($2 million)

Harlequins’ playmaker and marketing magnet
Marcus Smith isn’t just one of England’s most exciting talents—he’s also a rising commercial powerhouse. While his Premiership earnings are solid, his growing net worth is boosted by lucrative sponsorship deals with brands like Charles Tyrwhitt, Castore, Land Rover, and Breitling. His marketability ensures he’s a financial force both on and off the pitch.

9. Maro Itoje – £1.46 million ($2 million)

England and Saracens’ towering presence
Maro Itoje matches Marcus Smith both on the pitch and in the bank. With his growing influence on and off the field, Itoje’s salary mirrors his worth to Saracens and England alike.

8. Charles Piutau – £1.85 million ($2.5 million)

A marquee signing with a marquee salary
When Charles Piutau joined Bristol Bears, it wasn’t just his skills that made headlines—it was his paycheck. Over five seasons, the former All Black became one of the highest-paid players in the sport.

7. Handré Pollard – £1.94 million ($2.7 million)

A Springbok with serious earning power
The lone South African in this list, Handré Pollard made waves when he left the Bulls for Montpellier. Now at Leicester Tigers, reports suggest Pollard’s earnings hit around R15 million per season.

6. Ilona Maher – £3 million

A trailblazer on and off the pitch
Ilona Maher’s influence goes far beyond rugby. The USA sevens star has carved out a lucrative career through sponsorships, social media, and a growing brand that makes her one of the sport’s most marketable athletes.

5. Mike Tindall – £9.98 million ($13 million)

The royal connection
Rugby royalty and actual royalty collide in Mike Tindall. A World Cup winner in 2003, Tindall’s fortunes come from a mix of his rugby career, business ventures, and media appearances. Despite a few legal hurdles, his net worth is nearing £10 million.

4. Jonny Wilkinson – £20.9 million ($29 million)

England’s golden boy turned financial giant
Jonny Wilkinson’s iconic 2003 Rugby World Cup drop goal didn’t just win a trophy—it built a brand. Now the second-richest Rugby World Cup winner, Wilkinson’s ventures in coaching, commentary, and endorsements have significantly boosted his net worth.

3. Sonny Bill Williams – £21.8 million ($30 million)

A dual-code dynamo
Sonny Bill Williams has excelled in both union and league, earning a fortune in France and through high-profile endorsements. With a net worth of £21.8 million, his career is as lucrative as it is legendary.

2. Sir Bill Gammell – £38.8 million ($50 million)

From rugby to business titan
Once a Scottish rugby player, Sir Bill Gammell transitioned into the business world, building an empire. With a net worth exceeding £38.8 million, Gammell’s success spans far beyond the pitch.

1. Simon McDowell – £39.3 million ($54 million)

From referee to chemical company mogul
Simon McDowell may not be a household name among casual rugby fans, but his fortune outshines every player on this list. The former Ulster back earned a handful of caps for Ireland before injury ended his playing career early. However, his true wealth comes from his role in the family business, which operates in the chemical industry. His staggering £39.3 million net worth places him at the top of rugby’s richest.