Kinsey Wolanski remains a top-tier sporting influencer as we enter 2026
The landscape of social media has evolved into a powerhouse for sports revenue, where the financial rewards are no longer exclusive to those on the field. Increasingly, individuals are proving that you don't need a professional athletic career to achieve significant financial success within the industry.
With sports capital reaching unprecedented heights, the profit potential continues to climb. This presents a massive opportunity not just for elite athletes, but for savvy creators capable of commanding global audience attention.
From the golf course to the tennis court, and across boxing and gymnastics, sports influencers are dominating the conversation in 2026. Star Sport has curated a definitive list of the most influential figures set to break earnings records this year.
1. Ebanie Bridges
Instagram Followers: 798,000
Ebanie Bridges previously reigned as the IBF bantamweight champion
A unique talent who balances a striking aesthetic with genuine ring prowess, Ebanie Bridges expertly leveraged her profile to build a formidable boxing career. A pioneer in her field, the 'Blonde Bomber' has established a brand that promises longevity far beyond her fighting days.
Known for her high-profile social circle, including a friendship with Conor McGregor, the former educator recently paused her career to welcome a child with British boxing veteran Kell Brook. However, fans are eagerly anticipating her return to the ring against Alexis Mones, scheduled for January 3.
2. Mikayla Demaiter
Instagram Followers: 3.1 million
Mikayla Demaiter has traded the ice rink for a modeling career
Mikayla Demaiter has proven to be just as comfortable in front of a camera as she once was between the pipes. The former goaltender walked away from her position with the Bluewater Hawks in the Provincial Women's Hockey League and has since seen her digital following explode into the millions.
3. Olivia Dunne
Instagram Followers: 5.3 million
A standout on this list for her high-level competitive background, Olivia Dunne recently marked a year since her collegiate graduation. While her time as a competitive gymnast at LSU may have concluded—after helping secure a national title—her status as a social media powerhouse is only growing. The blonde star also makes headlines for her personal life, notably her relationship with MLB ace Paul Skenes.
4. Rachel Stuhlmann
Instagram Followers: 303,000
Despite having the most modest following on this list, Rachel Stuhlmann brings a legitimate tennis pedigree, once ranking nationally on the USTA junior circuit. She eventually chose to bypass a professional court career to become a dedicated sports influencer—a pivot that has proven highly successful.
5. Alisha Lehmann
Instagram Followers: 16 million
The undisputed leader in reach, former Aston Villa star Alisha Lehmann has masterfully turned her footballing talent into a global brand. The Swiss international, who fits the profile of a professional model, recently made headlines with a move from Juventus to fellow Serie A side Como in late 2025.
6. Veronika Rajek
Instagram Followers: 6.8 million
Veronika Rajek is well-known as a dedicated Tom Brady enthusiast
Primarily a swimwear model, Veronika Rajek gained viral fame as the ultimate Tom Brady supporter. The Slovakian native frequently made appearances at Tampa Bay Buccaneers fixtures clad in TB12 gear, and while the legendary quarterback has hung up his cleats, fans remain hopeful she will continue her presence in the NFL scene.
7. Kinsey Wolanski
Instagram Followers: 3.7 million
A licensed pilot and presenter, Kinsey Wolanski became a household name following her 2019 Champions League final appearance. Rather than reporting, she famously disrupted the match by sprinting onto the pitch to promote a digital brand. Now simply known as 'Kinsey,' she has matured her brand significantly, focusing on travel and aviation content.
8. Mandy Rose
Instagram Followers: 3.3 million
Mandy Rose has maintained a massive fanbase after her WWE departure
Mandy Rose reached the summit of sports entertainment as the NXT Women's Champion. Following a high-profile exit from WWE linked to her external digital content, Rose (real name Amanda Saccomanno) has thrived as an entrepreneur. She also recently celebrated her marriage to fellow wrestling alum Tino Sabbatelli in late 2024.
9. Paige VanZant
Instagram Followers: 3.1 million
A veteran of the combat sports world, Paige VanZant has seen her earnings from digital content far outpace her MMA purses. Since departing the UFC, '12 Gauge' has continued to engage her fanbase while exploring new challenges in bare-knuckle boxing and slap fighting, all while maintaining her status as a top-tier influencer.
10. Paige Spiranac
Instagram Followers: 4 million
Paige Spiranac provides expert golf analysis and tutorials to her followers
A former collegiate standout with sights once set on the LPGA, Paige Spiranac remains a central figure in the golf world. Now 32, she focuses on educational content and hosting, blending elite technical knowledge with a charismatic screen presence. She recently launched her highly anticipated 2026 calendar to kick off the new year.
