Highest-Paid Springboks: These Stars Make Millions Every Year

Being a Springbok comes with more than just prestige—it also pays handsomely, especially for those who ply their trade abroad.

South Africa’s top rugby players, including World Cup-winning icons like Handre Pollard, Cheslin Kolbe, Faf de Klerk, Siya Kolisi, and Eben Etzebeth, rank among the highest earners in global rugby. While exact national team figures remain under wraps, recent reports have shed light on their club earnings—and the numbers are eye-watering.

Pollard tops the list of highest-paid Springboks

Flyhalf Handre Pollard, currently with Leicester Tigers, is reported to be the top earner, taking home an estimated R31 million per year—that’s over R2.5 million a month. Remarkably, Pollard is said to be heading back to the Bulls next season without taking a pay cut, according to Jacaranda FM.

Close behind is Cheslin Kolbe, whose move to Tokyo Sungoliath sees him earning R22 million annually. Fellow Japan-based star Faf de Klerk also features high on the list, earning around R21 million a year at Toyota Verblitz.

Big numbers in Japan and South Africa

Japan has emerged as a lucrative destination for Springbok stars, with Kolbe and De Klerk continuing to make a mark both on the field and in the bank. Kolbe, recently named SA Rugby Player of the Year, remains one of the biggest attractions in Asian rugby.

Back home, Siya Kolisi leads the way as the top-earning South African-based player. The Sharks captain reportedly earns R18.6 million annually, slightly edging out his teammate Eben Etzebeth, who earns R18 million.

The full top five list based on reported club salaries:

• Handre Pollard (Leicester Tigers) – R31 million/year

• Cheslin Kolbe (Tokyo Sungoliath) – R22 million/year

• Faf de Klerk (Toyota Verblitz) – R21 million/year

• Siya Kolisi (Sharks) – R18.6 million/year

• Eben Etzebeth (Sharks) – R18 million/year

These earnings reflect only club contracts and do not include national team payments such as PONI (Players of National Interest) wages.

Still under wraps

At the time of writing, the earnings of other notable Springboks—such as Pieter-Steph du Toit and Kurt-Lee Arendse—have not been made public. But with the bar set this high, it’s clear that playing for the Springboks isn’t just about glory—it’s also a gateway to some of the most lucrative contracts in the sport.

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Sourced:The South African

Picture: SABC Sport