The Highest-Paid Positions in French Rugby – From Lowest to Highest
The French Top 14 is home to some of the biggest names and paychecks in world rugby. But which positions actually earn the most? According to a recent report, the salary hierarchy in France’s premier league might surprise you. While many expect fly-halves and backs to dominate earnings, it's the towering forwards—especially in the engine room—who command the highest wages. Here’s a full breakdown of the average annual salaries, from the lowest-paid to the best-paid positions in the league.
Hooker – £166,000
In the French Top 14, hookers are among the lowest-paid players, with an average annual salary of around £166,000. Despite their critical role in the scrum and set-piece, they lag behind other forwards and backs in terms of earnings. The position demands a unique mix of strength, technique, and accuracy, but remains undervalued in the market compared to power players.
Loosehead Prop – £166,000
Loosehead props earn a similar amount to hookers, averaging about £166,000 per season. These players face tough physical battles in every game, yet their salaries don’t reflect the bruising workload. While vital for stability in the scrum, they’re not seen as marquee earners in France’s top league.
Winger (lower tier) – £166,000
Not all wingers command top-dollar salaries in the Top 14. Some earn around £166,000, particularly those who are not international stars. Though they bring flair and finishing power, the market doesn’t consistently reward wide players unless they are game-changers.
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Flanker – £178,000
Flankers take home around £178,000 annually. Known for their work rate and tackling, they play a key role in turnovers and open play. Still, compared to other forward positions, their pay suggests they are considered more support than star material.
Winger (top tier) – £186,000
Top-performing wingers can push up their earnings to £186,000, especially if they are capable of consistently scoring tries and breaking games open. These figures reflect a higher appreciation for game-breaking speed and finishing in recent years.
Scrum-half – £186,000
Scrum-halves, despite being central to game management and tempo, earn around £186,000. While some elite nines like Antoine Dupont are outliers with far higher salaries, the average remains modest for such a crucial role.
Tighthead Prop – £195,000
Tighthead props are more valued than their loosehead counterparts, earning approximately £195,000 a year. Their role in anchoring the scrum and withstanding enormous pressure has grown in strategic importance, driving up their value slightly more.
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Loosehead Lock – £208,000
Locks on the loosehead side of the scrum earn about £208,000 annually. While not quite at the top end of the pay scale, their size and strength still secure them higher-than-average deals compared to front row positions.
Centre – £211,000
Centers are joint-third in average pay, with salaries around £211,000. Their versatility, power, and role in both attack and defense make them key players, especially in France where tactical midfield play is highly prized.
Fly-half – £211,000
Fly-halves earn the same as centers, averaging £211,000, even though they are often seen as the brains of the team. Their ability to control the game, kick strategically, and distribute under pressure makes them among the most valued backs.
Number Eight – £220,000
Number eights come in second place, earning roughly £220,000 a season. These powerful athletes must combine the skills of a flanker with the physical presence of a lock, making them one of the most complete forwards on the field – and the market reflects that.
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Tighthead Lock – £228,000
Topping the salary chart are tighthead locks, pulling in an impressive £228,000 on average. Their blend of size, mobility, and technique has made them the most coveted assets in the Top 14. Clubs are willing to spend big to secure world-class talent in this position, underlining just how crucial they are in the engine room.
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