Sir Alex Ferguson

Alex Ferguson’s wealth grew alongside his legendary career, especially during his transformative time with Manchester United, where his savvy signings and leadership paved the way for his success on and off the field. Let’s learn how the legendary coach earned $70 million in net worth. 

What is Alex Ferguson's net worth?

Celebrity Net Worth claims that Alex Ferguson boasts a net worth of $70 million. 

The former manager is reportedly earning an impressive $300,000 per week, leading to a projected annual income of around $15.9 million for 2024. When he started his journey with East Stirlingshire, he earned just $52.27 per week. The real turning point in Ferguson's financial and managerial career came when he took the helm at Manchester United, initially earning $653,300 a year. Following the ex-coach’s period of unparalleled success in Manchester, his salary reportedly reached above $5 million per year. 
However, his illustrious career was not without controversy. In 2003, he accused UEFA of rigging the Champions League draw to favor Spanish and Italian teams, resulting in a fine of around $6000, for bringing the game into disrepute. He also faced multiple punishments and fines of around $98,000 for incidents involving referees. Despite these setbacks, Ferguson's unmatched ability to balance sporting success with financial growth has cemented his status as a football titan.

What is Alex Ferguson's claim to fame?

Sir Alex's football journey started early. Growing up with his younger brother, he took to the game with passion while also working as a toolmaker's apprentice, ensuring a fallback option. His professional playing career began at 16 with Queen's Park, where he scored 20 goals in 31 matches. Despite his talent, he moved to St. Johnstone, and by 1964, he had become a full-time professional footballer with Dunfermline.

• Scottish League: During the 1965-66 season, Ferguson became the top scorer in the Scottish League, netting 31 goals. This success led to a record transfer to Rangers for $85,000. After playing for several clubs, including Falkirk, Ferguson retired as a player with Ayr United in 1974, but his story was far from over.
• East Stirlingshire: Ferguson’s managerial career started at East Stirlingshire in 1974. With a weekly wage of $52.30 and a transfer budget of just $2600, Ferguson assembled a squad with minimal resources. His first match ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw after trailing 3-0. This small club, however, became the foundation for his legendary managerial career.
• European Cup Winners’ Cup: Alex's next stop was St Mirren, where he transformed the club, but it was at Aberdeen where he made his mark on Scottish football. Between 1978 and 1986, Ferguson broke the Celtic-Rangers duopoly, winning three Scottish league titles, six domestic cups, and the prestigious European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1983, defeating Real Madrid. His achievements in Scotland set the stage for even greater success.
• Treble and Knighthood: Becoming a coach at Manchester United in 1986 was a bold move as the club had not won a league title in 19 years. Despite early struggles, including rumors of his dismissal, Ferguson brought patience and a relentless drive and led the club to win the FA Cup in 1990. This win was a turning point that cemented his future at Manchester. Under his leadership, the club secured 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups, 2 UEFA Champions League trophies, and many other accolades. His most iconic achievement came in 1999, when United won the treble of the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League, earning him a knighthood.
• Hall of Fame: Former United manager inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame, recognized for winning 13 league titles during his reign at Old Trafford. Alongside him, former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was also honored for his contributions. 
  Ferguson's tenure spanned 27 years, during which he won 528 out of 810 matches and was named Manager of the Season 11 times.  

What are Alex Ferguson’s notable business ventures and investments?

The man has also been involved in several notable business ventures and investments. Here are some of the key ones: 

• ACF Sports Promotions: ACF has generated income from Ferguson's book deals, speaking engagements, and personal appearances since he retired in 2013. The former United boss made $2.09 million last year, over a decade after his retirement. The company now boasts $31.78 million in assets and investments, an increase from $29 million the previous year. The firm holds $6.6 million in cash reserves, nearly $2.6 million in football memorabilia, and paid $247,013 in taxes. However, it is currently under HMRC investigation for tax years 2016-2020, with legal advisers working to resolve the issue.
• Upperwood Farm Stud: The legend has embarked on a new business venture by launching his own stud, Upperwood Farm Stud, in Hemel Hempstead. A passionate horse racing fan, Ferguson already owns 32 racehorses and has enjoyed success at major events, including three wins at the Aintree Grand National. In partnership with horse expert Niall McLoughlin, Ferguson is now listed as a breeder. His most promising horse, Spirit Dancer, is set to compete in the Bahrain International. A win could earn Ferguson $654,000, but the potential stud fees could far surpass that figure.
• Active Asset Investment Management: In 2003, Alex helped launch AAIM, a company focused on creating tax-efficient property investment syndicates for high-net-worth individuals. Alongside former Manchester United player Alan Smith, ex-Manchester City player Gareth Barry, and other investors, Ferguson contributed $65 million in equity. 
• Biotechnology and healthcare: During his Manchester United career, Sir Alex gave a notable lecture to Manchester’s biotech and health entrepreneurs, offering insights on leadership and motivation. His approach to managing high-performing athletes paralleled the challenges of managing talent in the venture capital-driven world of biotech. 
• Pockit: He diversified his investments by leading a funding round for this prepaid card provider, which raised $1.3 million. 
  Wine collection and liquid assets: In 2015, he auctioned part of his wine collection, expecting returns of around $3.9 million. His company also made £6 million in profits in 2016. 
• Accrington Stanley: In 2012, Alex bought a single share in Accrington Stanley for $130, becoming the football club’s 500th investor. This move demonstrated his belief that even small investments can make a big impact, promoting the club’s shares and inspiring other investors to participate, regardless of the amount. 
  Celebrity investments and tax relief: Like many celebrity investors, Sir Alex has leveraged the UK’s generous tax relief schemes, such as SEIS and EIS, which offer income tax relief of up to 50%.

His strategic investments, both large and small, showcase his ability to blend business acumen with personal passion, all while taking advantage of tax-efficient investment opportunities. 

What are Alex Ferguson’s notable endorsements?

Alex may have been involved in various endorsement deals, but most of them were not documented. Here, we have discussed one of the deals that he has been endorsing for the last 11 years. 

• Old Trafford: The legendary Manchester United manager has been a familiar face in the Old Trafford director’s box since his retirement in 2013. He had been receiving $2.82 million a year for his ambassadorial duties. However, he will step down from this role as soon as the season ends. 
  This legend’s departure from Old Trafford signals the end of an era, leaving fans and former players wondering what the future holds for the club’s leadership. 

How does Alex Ferguson spend his millions? 

The legendary ex-coach likes to spend his millions on various business ventures and charity causes. He also has a passion for horses and spends most of his money on his horses. 

How many real estate properties does Alex Ferguson own?
 

• Cheshire house: The Scottish football legend has sold his luxury five-bedroom mansion in Cheshire for $4.24 million. The property spans 7,000 sq ft and offers privacy with its gated, secure plot, a gym, expansive kitchen, and a games room with a 'Ferguson clan' tartan carpet. Ferguson and his late wife, Lady Cathy, moved into the home in 2010 to shorten his commute to Manchester United's Carrington training ground. After Cathy's demise, the mansion was put on the market.
• Goostrey home: The coach relocated to a $1.56 million home in Goostrey, near his son Darren and grandchildren. 

How big is Alex Ferguson’s car collection?

Given Ferguson's low-key lifestyle and focus on his career, it's unlikely that his car collection is extensive or particularly flashy. 

• Chevrolet Volt: Ferguson continues to embrace modernity with his latest energy-saving Chevrolet Volt. This innovative electric vehicle can travel about 50 miles in near-silent mode, making it perfect for his trips to Manchester United's Carrington training ground. An added perk for the legendary manager is the low tax rate on the Volt, which means he only pays $76.16 per month as a higher-rate taxpayer. He isn’t alone in his eco-friendly choices; former United captain Gary Neville also champions sustainability with his hybrid Vauxhall Ampera, opting for the train when he’s not driving.
• Mercedes S350d: Ferguson narrowly avoided a fine after parking his $98,000 Mercedes S350d on double yellow lines and a corner in Cheshire. He was spotted leaving his car for a quick trip to the shops but returned without a penalty, possibly thanks to a Man U-supporting traffic warden. 

What are Alex Ferguson’s charitable contributions?

Ferguson has been involved in numerous charitable initiatives throughout his life. Here are some of his notable charitable contributions: 

• Playlist for Life: Alex has curated a Desert Island Discs-inspired playlist to support dementia charity Playlist for Life, combining music from his youth in Govan, Glasgow. The Manchester United legend selected songs tied to key moments in his life, from post-war classics to emotional favorites. He shared how powerful music can be, especially for those affected by dementia. His playlist not only reflects his personal memories but aims to raise awareness about the healing power of music for dementia sufferers. 
• Glasgow Caledonian University: His golf day and gala dinner raised above $228,000 to support students from marginalized backgrounds at GCU. Held at the Carrick Golf Course and Cameron House on Loch Lomond, the event featured celebrity golfers like Gary Neville, Eilidh Barbour, John Hartson, and Eve Muirhead. The funds provided financial assistance to disadvantaged students, helping them access life-changing educational opportunities. Sir Alex, who has donated over $900,000 to GCU as a Founding Donor, said, "It’s amazing to see young people thrive with the support they receive.” 
• Friends of Rosie: The football coach has generously donated to Friends of Rosie through The Elizabeth Hardie Ferguson Charitable Trust, which he established in memory of his mother. His contribution supported three critical children's cancer research projects, focusing on improving treatment, diagnosis, and outcomes. 
  UNICEF UK: He has been involved with the brand since 2002 as an ambassador and has been deeply involved in fundraising and advocacy. He’s visited UNICEF projects in Thailand, South Africa, and China, and in 2005, helped launch the Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS campaign in Geneva. 
• Souness: The legendary football coach donated $26,000 to support Souness. Souness humorously shared, "He’s got a heart of gold—you just have to search for it!" 

What's next for Alex Ferguson? 

Sir Alex Ferguson is an 82-year-old football legend who hardly has anything more to achieve. However, he is still not done with the sport. The maestro now spends most of his time giving lessons on leadership. He also nurtures young talents and gives them opportunities to grow. However, he will be stepping down from his role of ambassador for Old Trafford at the end of the 2024-25 season. There are speculations regarding him still remaining a non-executive but nothing has been confirmed by the club.

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