Rugby Referee Worth £39M? The Wealthiest Rugby Stars Ranked from 10 to 1
Rugby NewsTuesday, 19 May 2026 at 21:54
Rugby may be built on passion, pride and physical sacrifice, but for a select few stars and personalities, the sport has also led to extraordinary wealth.
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From World Cup-winning legends and global superstars to one referee-turned-business mogul, rugby’s biggest names have transformed success on the pitch into fortunes worth millions through endorsements, media work and smart investments.
In this list, we count down the 10 wealthiest rugby stars and personalities in 2025, with all figures based on publicly available estimates.
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All figures are estimated.
10. Nigel Owens (Wales, Referee) – £8M
One of the most respected referees in rugby history, Nigel Owens built his fortune through officiating, television appearances, after-dinner speaking and media work following his retirement from international rugby.
9. Sébastien Chabal (France) – £10M
Known for his iconic beard and ferocious playing style, Sébastien Chabal became one of rugby’s most marketable figures. Endorsements, television appearances and business ventures have helped the former French international amass a significant fortune.
8. David Campese (Australia) – £12M
Widely regarded as one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen, David Campese has earned millions through sponsorships, speaking engagements and commercial ventures since his legendary playing career ended.
7. Dan Carter (New Zealand) – £15M
The All Blacks fly-half remains one of rugby’s biggest global icons. Lucrative contracts in New Zealand, France and Japan, along with major endorsement deals, have helped Carter build an estimated £15 million fortune.
6. Richie McCaw (New Zealand) – £15M
Two-time Rugby World Cup-winning captain Richie McCaw has turned his remarkable playing career into lasting financial success through endorsements, aviation and various business interests.
5. Francois Pienaar (South Africa) – £15M
The captain who lifted the 1995 Rugby World Cup became an international icon. Since retiring, Pienaar has enjoyed a successful career in business and broadcasting.
4. Bryan Habana (South Africa) – £15M
One of the greatest finishers in rugby history, Bryan Habana has built his wealth through endorsements, television work and entrepreneurial ventures following his illustrious Springbok career.
3. Sonny Bill Williams (New Zealand) – £20M
A unique sporting superstar, Sonny Bill Williams combined elite rugby contracts with a successful boxing career, sponsorship deals and business projects to create one of rugby’s largest fortunes.
2. Mike Tindall (England) – £25M
The former England centre has significantly increased his wealth through television appearances, podcasts, endorsements and high-profile media work. His marriage to Zara Tindall has further elevated his public profile.
1. Simon McDowell (Ireland) – £39.3M
Former international referee Simon McDowell tops the list. Away from rugby, he became a hugely successful businessman through Kilwaughter Minerals, making him one of the wealthiest figures associated with the sport.
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