France captain Antoine Dupont has become the highest-paid rugby player in the world after signing a four-year contract extension with Toulouse, according to a report by Ruck on July 3, 2026.
The new deal extends his previous commitment from 2027 until 2031 and is valued at approximately £1.2 million per season.
>>> Chicago Fire Signs Robert Lewandowski to Two-Year MLS Contract
The 34-year-old scrum-half could potentially participate in two additional Rugby World Cups before the contract expires.
This financial milestone highlights a new era in global rugby where elite athletes command record-breaking salaries across both European and Japanese competitions.
Top Earners in Rugby
Behind Dupont, Scotland fly-half Finn Russell ranks second, earning around £1.2 million annually at Bath Rugby following a lucrative contract extension that makes him the top earner in the Premiership.
The shift in commercial power is further evidenced by player movements in Japan Rugby League One.
>>> PSV Targets Sven Mijnans as Van Bommel and Plea Return
New Zealand fly-half Richie Mo'unga earns an estimated $2 million per season, equivalent to £1.04 million, with Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo.
South African winger Cheslin Kolbe follows closely, commanding an estimated £930,000 per year with Tokyo Sungoliath.
Both Mo'unga and Kolbe have confirmed future returns to their respective home countries of New Zealand and South Africa, reportedly accepting lower salaries to regain eligibility for national team selection.
In England, Saracens lock Maro Itoje completes the top five highest-paid players with an estimated club salary of £800,000 per year.
>>> Bengaluru Daycare Abuse: Toddlers Show Trauma, Caretakers Underpaid
His overall financial package pushes close to £1 million annually when combined with his RFU contract, following his leadership of the British & Irish Lions during their 2025 tour of Australia.
