Ancient Rome’s Superstar Charioteers Earned Billions

Historian Robert Rollinger of the University of Innsbruck revealed that Gaius Appuleius Diocles, a Roman charioteer, earned the equivalent of 15 billion euros in his 24-year career. Diocles and Flavius Scorpus were celebrated like modern sports stars, earning astronomical prize money and accumulating devoted fans. He began racing as a slave, eventually gaining freedom through 1462 victories in 4257 races, often by taking the lead from the start.

Beyond chariot racing, the article details the history of sports across ancient civilizations. Archaeological evidence shows that ball games existed as early as 4500 years ago in Egypt, with a rubber ball from the Olmec culture now displayed in Mexico. Evidence suggests team sports were played in Central Asia around 3000 years ago, possibly an early form of polo.

Rollinger notes that ancient sporting events were deeply interwoven with social and political life, allowing interaction between different social classes and serving as a demonstration of leadership. While record-keeping wasn’t as prevalent as today, achievements were celebrated with monuments and privileges.