Bundee Aki is one of the most respected and admired players in Irish rugby. A key contributor to Ireland’s recent dominance, Aki is renowned for his explosive power, unwavering defense, and leadership on the field. However, how much does this dominant rugby player get paid for his efforts?
According to reports, Aki’s pay has increased recently and is currently between £350,000 and £400,000 annually. Given his impact on the field and his indisputable worth to Connacht and the national team, he is now among the highest-paid players in Irish rugby. His rising reputation as one of Ireland’s most important players is further supported by the significant raise from his prior salary of £200,000 per season.
Bundee Aki Salary & Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fua Leiofi Bundellu Aki |
| Date of Birth | April 7, 1990 |
| Nationality | Irish (Born in New Zealand) |
| Current Club | Connacht (Since 2014) |
| Position | Centre |
| Annual Club Salary | £350,000 – £400,000 |
| Total Estimated Salary (2024) | £400,000+ |
| Major Achievements | Six Nations Winner (2018, 2023, 2024), Pro12 Champion (2016), British & Irish Lions Selection (2021) |
| Estimated Career Earnings | £3.5-4.5 million (as of 2024) |
| Height | 5ft 10in (178cm) |
| Weight | 224 lbs (102kg) |
| More Info | Visit IRFU Official Site |
From Banking to Rugby Stardom: Aki’s Journey
Bundee Aki’s career took a different turn long before he rose to fame as a rugby player. He was thinking about his future in the sport while working as a bank teller in New Zealand in 2011. However, his talent and tenacity prevented him from leaving.
He started his career with Counties Manukau before moving on to the Chiefs, where he won the 2013 Super Rugby championship. But his 2014 transfer to Connacht, which put him at the center of Irish rugby’s heyday, was what really changed his career.
After leading Connacht to a historic Pro12 title in 2016 and winning the league’s Player of the Season award, Aki immediately won over fans. He was quickly promoted to the Irish national team due to his physicality, vigor, and leadership; this choice would permanently alter the course of his career.
What Is the Salary of Bundee Aki in Relation to Ireland’s Highest Earners?
Even with his £400,000 annual salary, Aki is still marginally less wealthy than some of Ireland’s top rugby players:
💰 Before retirement, Johnny Sexton of Ireland and Leinster made £650,000 annually.
🏉 Tadhg Furlong of Ireland and Leinster made £500,000 annually. £400,000 for Bundee Aki (Ireland & Connacht)
⚡ £375,000 for Garry Ringrose (Ireland & Leinster)
Despite making a little less money than Leinster’s top players, Aki is one of the most valuable players in Irish rugby because of his crucial contribution to Ireland’s success and his steady, top-tier performances.
What Caused Aki’s Pay Increase? The IRFU’s Dedication to Talent Retention
Ireland’s rugby union has prioritized keeping top players in place in recent years, discouraging them from accepting high-profile offers from French and Japanese teams.
An important victory for Irish rugby, Aki’s contract extension with Connacht until 2025 shows the IRFU’s financial commitment to retaining important players in the nation. The fact that his pay increased from £200,000 to £400,000 shows how important he is becoming to the team’s future.
The International Success of Bundee Aki: An Important Figure for Ireland
Aki has been an integral member of the national team since making his debut for Ireland in 2017, and he has helped the team win numerous Six Nations championships.
Champion of Six Nations (2018, 2023, 2024)
🎖️ 2018 and 2023 Grand Slam Champions
Call-Up for the British and Irish Lions (2021)
Aki is an emotional leader who inspires his teammates with his passion and intensity, which goes beyond the numbers. His reputation as one of the top centers in the world was further cemented by his performances at the Rugby World Cup 2023.
What Will Happen to Bundee Aki Next?
Aki’s future is still bright because of the upcoming 2027 Rugby World Cup and the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour. Even though his current contract keeps him in Ireland, a lucrative move overseas is always a possibility.
- 🔎 After 2025, will Aki still be in Ireland?
- Would a million-pound offer from France or Japan tempt him?
- 💨 Will he win another Six Nations championship for Ireland?
As of right now, Bundee Aki is still one of Ireland’s most important players, and his salary reflects how much he is worth to the team.
