UK Taxpayers List Reveals Surprising Entries Among Top Earners

The latest Sunday Times Tax List for 2026 showcases the UK’s 100 largest taxpayers, highlighting the remarkable contributions of celebrities and entrepreneurs alike. Notably, the billionaire founders of Betfred have claimed the top position this year, reflecting broader shifts in tax contributions amid changing fiscal policies.

Why It Matters

This annual list serves as a crucial indicator of wealth distribution and the economic climate in the UK. The significant increase in total tax paid underscores the effects of recent changes to corporation tax rates, illustrating how tax policy can impact public revenue. Understanding who contributes the most can help draw attention to economic disparities and the responsibilities of wealth accumulation.

Key Developments

• Top Contributors: Fred and Peter Done, founders of Betfred, topped the list with a tax payment of approximately £400.1 million, a dramatic increase from the previous year’s £273.4 million.
• Notable Entries: Financial trading entrepreneur Alex Gerko is second with £331.4 million, followed by hedge fund manager Chris Rokos at £330 million.
• Celebrity Taxpayers: Noteworthy new entries include Harry Styles, ranked 54th with £24.7 million, while Anthony Joshua finished 100th with a £11 million contribution.
• Football Stars: Erling Haaland and Mo Salah made their debuts on the list, ranking 72nd and 81st respectively, with tax bills of £16.9 million and £14.5 million.
• Total Contributions: The top 100 taxpayers collectively paid £5.758 billion in taxes, up from £4.985 billion the previous year.

Full Report

Significant Shifts in Tax Contributions

In a notable departure from previous years, Fred and Peter Done, who started their gambling enterprise in Warrington in 1967, saw their tax payment rise by nearly 47% over the year. This increase reflects broader governmental measures aimed at enhancing welfare spending through elevated corporate tax rates. Robert Watts, the compiler of the list, remarked on the diversity of the entries, indicating a blend of aristocrats, business moguls, and popular artists.

Noteworthy Figures

Harry Potter author JK Rowling appeared at 36th place, with a tax bill of £47.5 million, reinforcing her position among the highest earners. Other prominent figures, such as musician Ed Sheeran and Wetherspoons founder Sir Tim Martin, also featured prominently within the top ranks, showcasing the reach of individuals across various sectors.

Changes in Tax Residency

The list noted that six taxpayers, including Malcolm Healey of Wren Kitchens and sports promoter Eddie Hearn, have left the UK recently amid heightened tax scrutiny. This phenomenon raises questions about the implications of potential exits by the wealthy, prompted by changes in government policies.

Context & Previous Events

The Sunday Times Tax List serves as an annual benchmark for the UK’s wealthiest individuals, often reflecting the economic climate and fiscal strategies of the government. This year’s ranking marks a continued trend of high-profile figures being spotlighted for their substantial tax contributions amidst increasing rates aimed at supporting greater welfare initiatives.