George Best is remembered as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His legendary career with Manchester United brought him fame and fortune, but how did it shape his financial success?
Today, I’ll walk you through George Best net worth, focusing on his incredible career milestones and the income streams that contributed to his wealth.
Contents
- 1 Quick Facts
- 2 What is the Net Worth Of George Best in 2024?
- 3 Salary and Finance Overview
- 3.1 How His Early Life and Football Career Shaped His Success
- 3.2 His Football Achievements and Key Milestones in His Career
- 3.3 Key Contracts, Salaries, and Endorsements Throughout His Career
- 3.4 How His Lifestyle and Off-Field Ventures Affected His Wealth
- 3.5 Legal and Health Issues That Impacted His Financial Stability
- 3.6 The Legacy He Left Behind for His Family and Football Community
- 4 FAQs About George Best
- 4.1 What teams did he play for?
- 4.2 How many goals did he score for Manchester United?
- 4.3 Did he win the Ballon d’Or?
- 4.4 How many times was he capped for Northern Ireland?
- 4.5 What was his biggest football achievement?
- 4.6 Did he struggle with alcohol during his career?
- 4.7 How many children did he have?
- 4.8 Did he own any businesses outside of football?
- 5 Conclusion
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | George Best |
| Popular Name | George Best |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | May 22, 1946 |
| Age | 59 (Died: November 25, 2005) |
| Parents | Richard Dickie Best, Anne Best |
| Siblings | Carol, Barbara, Julie, Grace, Ian |
| Birthplace | Belfast, Northern Ireland |
| Nationality | Northern Irish |
| Ethnicity | Anglo-Irish |
| Education | Grosvenor High School, Lisnasharragh Secondary School |
| Marital Status | Divorced (twice) |
| Spouse | Alex Best (m. 1995–2004), Angie Best (m. 1978–1986) |
| Children | Calum Best |
| Dating | Sinéad Cusack (Past) |
| Net Worth | $250,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Football, Endorsements |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (approx. 175 cm) |
What is the Net Worth Of George Best in 2024?
George Best had an estimated net worth of $250,000 at the time of his death in 2005. Compared to modern football icons, his net worth may seem modest. However, during his time, Best was considered a superstar both on the pitch and in the business world.
Many of his peers and football legends also built substantial fortunes, though few lived the extravagant lifestyle Best did.
For context, here are a few other prominent figures related to Best’s era and industry:
- Manchester United
- Calum Best
- Ballon d’Or
- Alex Pursey
- Northern Ireland national team
- Denis Law
- Bobby Charlton
- Wolverhampton Wanderers
- Glentoran F.C.
- Fulham F.C.
For a more comprehensive list of top earners in football, you can check out our article on the wealthiest footballers here.
Salary and Finance Overview
How His Early Life and Football Career Shaped His Success
George Best‘s rise to football stardom began at a young age. Discovered by Manchester United at 15, his talent quickly propelled him to one of the most prominent players in the sport.
Best’s football career began with strong performances, and by 17, he made his debut for Manchester United.
His early years, marked by incredible skill, set the stage for the wealth he would later accumulate. The young talent from Belfast soon became the focal point of Manchester United’s offensive strategy, leading the team to many victories.
His Football Achievements and Key Milestones in His Career
Best is often regarded as one of the best footballers in history, with a long list of awards to his name. His most notable achievements include two English league titles, a European Cup win in 1968, and being awarded the Ballon d’Or the same year.
These accolades were pivotal in establishing his reputation, not only as a top player but also as a marketable figure in football. His peak years as Manchester United’s top scorer brought financial rewards and international fame.
Key Contracts, Salaries, and Endorsements Throughout His Career
During his career, Best’s salary with Manchester United reached impressive heights for the era, peaking at around $150,000 annually. After adjusting for inflation, this would be the equivalent of around $1 million per year today.
Best’s performance bonuses and his top-scorer status meant additional income. Beyond his salary, Best capitalized on his fame with numerous endorsements.
His name and image were associated with over 80 brands, from cereal to shoes, further boosting his earnings. However, financial mismanagement significantly impacted his fortune.
How His Lifestyle and Off-Field Ventures Affected His Wealth
Best’s lavish lifestyle off the pitch became as famous as his exploits on it. Known for his love of fast cars, extravagant parties, and his playboy image, Best admitted to spending much of his money on indulgent pursuits.
His off-field ventures, such as investments in nightclubs and restaurants, were attempts to diversify his income but ultimately failed. Although these business ventures provided temporary income, they did little to secure long-term financial stability.
His alcohol addiction and poor financial decisions eventually eroded his wealth.
Legal and Health Issues That Impacted His Financial Stability
Best’s struggles with alcoholism and legal issues also contributed to his financial decline. In 1972, he faced assault charges, and in 1984, he served time in prison for drunk driving and assaulting a police officer.
These legal troubles drained his finances and tarnished his public image, affecting endorsement opportunities. His declining health, including liver damage and a liver transplant in 2002, required significant medical attention, further straining his finances.
The Legacy He Left Behind for His Family and Football Community
Despite the financial struggles, George Best left an indelible mark on the football world. His estate, worth £138,000, was passed to his son, Calum Best, and while his wealth may have dwindled, his legacy on the field remains untouchable.
The “Belfast Boy” continues to inspire generations of footballers, and his name is forever etched in the history of Manchester United and international football.
FAQs About George Best
What teams did he play for?
He played for Manchester United, Fulham, Hibernian, and various clubs in South Africa, Ireland, the United States, and Australia.
How many goals did he score for Manchester United?
He scored 181 goals in 474 appearances for Manchester United.
Did he win the Ballon d’Or?
Yes, he won the Ballon d’Or in 1968.
How many times was he capped for Northern Ireland?
He was capped 37 times for Northern Ireland and scored nine goals.
What was his biggest football achievement?
His biggest achievement was winning the European Cup with Manchester United in 1968.
Did he struggle with alcohol during his career?
Yes, alcoholism was a significant issue throughout his career and later life.
How many children did he have?
He had one son, Calum Best.
Did he own any businesses outside of football?
Yes, he invested in nightclubs, restaurants, and boutiques, but these ventures were not financially successful.
Conclusion
George Best’s journey from football stardom to financial struggles is a compelling story. His legendary career lives on, and for more such insights, feel free to explore our content at Aupeo. Leave your comments, share your thoughts, or dive into more content on the site!
