According to reports from 2021, the highest-paid rugby players in Europe are:
- Dan Carter: The former New Zealand fly-half is currently the highest-paid rugby player in Europe, earning a reported salary of €1.5 million per year while playing for Racing 92 in France.
- Owen Farrell: The England captain is reported to earn a salary of £750,000 per year while playing for Saracens in the English Premiership.
- Taulupe Faletau: The Wales and Bath number eight is reported to earn a salary of £700,000 per year.
- Johnny Sexton: The Ireland and Leinster fly-half is reported to earn a salary of £700,000 per year.
- Mako Vunipola: The England and Saracens prop is reported to earn a salary of £650,000 per year.
It’s important to note that these figures are approximate and might not be entirely accurate as some clubs and players do not disclose their salary information. Additionally, these figures are only based on the European rugby league and not the worldwide rugby scene, where players might have other income streams and earning potentials.