Faiq Bolkiah, widely described as the world's richest footballer, is without a club after his contract with Thai side Ratchaburi came to an end.

The 28-year-old winger did not join a new club during the transfer window, according to Marca.

He is now free to sign for a new team as a free agent. Bolkiah's wealth comes from his family and not his football career. He is a nephew of Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and the son of Prince Jefri Bolkiah.

Marca estimates his family wealth at close to €18.7 billion, which is roughly £16 billion.

Why Faiq Bolkiah's Free Agency Has Attracted Global Attention

Bolkiah's football career tells a different story. Since 2021, he has made 49 appearances and scored four goals for Chonburi and Ratchaburi in Thailand's top division.

Before moving to Southeast Asia, Bolkiah made appearances for Marítimo's reserve side but did not make a league appearance for the first team.

He never made a senior first-team appearance in England, despite spells in the youth systems at Southampton, Chelsea and Leicester City. Bolkiah's reported personal wealth far exceeds his current football market value.

Transfermarkt valued the forward at roughly €100,000 in its May 2026 update, while reports have put his personal fortune in the tens of billions. Bolkiah's contract situation has attracted attention because of his reported wealth.

How Faiq Bolkiah's Career Took Him From England to Thailand

Bolkiah joined Chelsea's youth academy in 2014 and left in 2016 without making a first-team appearance. He then spent time in Leicester City's youth and Under-23 setup through 2020, without making a first-team appearance.

Bolkiah joined Portuguese side Marítimo in 2020. He made his senior debut for the club's reserve side but did not make a league appearance for the first team. Bolkiah moved to Thailand in 2021, joining Chonburi before switching to Ratchaburi in 2023.

His Ratchaburi contract expired at the end of June 2026.

Where Could Faiq Bolkiah Go Next?

Bolkiah has captained the Brunei national team and has earned six senior caps for his country. He is now a free agent after leaving Ratchaburi and will be looking for his next club.

No club has been reported showing interest in signing him since his Ratchaburi contract ended. For now, his next move remains open.