A new report from the Sunday Times has spotlighted the United Kingdom’s top taxpayers, revealing significant contributions from prominent figures across various sectors. The 2026 Tax List highlights a mix of business moguls, entertainers, and sports stars, with the billionaire founders of Betfred leading the pack.
Betfred Brothers Dominate the Rankings
The Done brothers, Fred and Peter, have topped the Sunday Times Tax List with a staggering tax contribution of £400.1 million. This substantial figure reflects their extensive gambling operations, which include a vast network of betting shops. Approximately half of their tax bill stems from gambling duties associated with their business empire, underscoring the lucrative nature of the industry.
Fred Done expressed a strong commitment to the UK, stating, “We owe this country. I feel there is an obligation for people that have made the money in that country to pay the tax in that country.” His sentiments indicate a dedication to contributing to the nation’s finances, especially as many wealthy individuals seek more tax-friendly jurisdictions abroad.
Notable Contributions from Celebrities
In addition to the Done brothers, several high-profile celebrities have made significant tax payments. Sir Tim Martin, founder of the Wetherspoon pub chain, ranks eighth on the list with an estimated £200 million tax contribution. His establishment, with 794 venues nationwide, generates considerable public revenue, contributing over £1 million in taxes per pub.
Harry Styles, the celebrated musician, ranks as the highest celebrity taxpayer at position 54, having paid £24.7 million. This substantial amount is primarily linked to his touring activities and his merchandise business, Erskine Records. Close behind is Ed Sheeran, who reported a tax contribution of nearly £20 million, derived from a £41 million dividend received last year.
Youngest Taxpayer: Erling Haaland
Among the list’s notable entries is Erling Haaland, the Norwegian striker for Manchester City, who at just 22 years old is the youngest on the list. His estimated tax contribution of £16.9 million comes from a weekly salary exceeding £500,000, along with additional earnings from image rights and performance bonuses. While impressive, Haaland’s tax payment falls short of JK Rowling’s £47.5 million, illustrating the diverse earning potential within the upper echelons of British society.
The Broader Implications of Tax Contributions
The Sunday Times Tax List sheds light on the broader fiscal landscape of the UK, particularly as it coincides with a trend of wealthy individuals relocating to more tax-advantageous locales. The report notes that several figures from the previous year’s list have since moved abroad, including those now residing in Monaco, Jersey, and Guernsey.
This migration raises concerns about the UK’s ability to retain its wealth creators, a topic highlighted by HMRC data indicating that the top 1% of earners contribute approximately 26.6% of the total income tax, a decrease from 30.7% in the previous year. Critics attribute this decline to frozen income tax thresholds and the migration of high earners to lower-tax regions.
Why it Matters
The Sunday Times 2026 Tax List not only highlights the financial contributions of influential individuals but also serves as a barometer for the UK’s economic climate. As the country grapples with the implications of wealth migration and changing tax policies, understanding who contributes significantly to public finances is crucial. The ongoing dialogue around taxation and its fairness will undoubtedly shape the future of fiscal policy in the UK, making the profiles of these top taxpayers more relevant than ever.
