F1 Earnings Explosion: Max Verstappen Dominates Again in 2025!
The world of Formula 1 is not just about speed and skill; it’s a financial battleground where the highest-paid drivers command astronomical salaries. In a stunning revelation, Forbes has unveiled its exclusive list of the top earners in Formula 1 for 2025, and the numbers are jaw-dropping!
Leading the pack is none other than the indomitable Max Verstappen, raking in an astounding $76 million. This four-time world champion continues to prove his prowess both on and off the track, with a staggering base salary of around $65 million, which is further bolstered by performance-related bonuses. After narrowly missing out on his fifth title by a mere two points, Verstappen’s eyes are set on the upcoming regulatory changes in 2026, seeing them as a golden ticket to reclaim his championship crown.
Hot on his heels is the legendary Lewis Hamilton, with a hefty estimated income of $70.5 million. Despite a challenging season behind the wheel of a Ferrari that struggled to keep pace, Hamilton remains a financial titan in the sport. His sixth-place finish with 156 points, trailing his teammate Charles Leclerc, hasn’t dented his earning potential one bit.
In an electrifying twist, McLaren’s rising star Lando Norris claims the third spot on this lucrative list, boasting an estimated salary of $57.5 million. The young driver, who has just been crowned champion, reportedly pulls in a base salary of $18 million, but the real kicker is the nearly $40 million in bonuses that will undoubtedly make his holiday season one to remember.
Rounding out the top five is Charles Leclerc, who, despite a stellar points haul of 242, takes home an estimated $30 million. However, it’s worth noting that Leclerc’s earnings did not include any bonuses this time around—a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of racing fortunes.
The list does not end there; F1 veteran Fernando Alonso secures the sixth position with $26.5 million, while George Russell and Lance Stroll closely follow. Notably, Carlos Sainz and rookie sensation Kimi Antonelli complete the top ten, with Antonelli’s impressive bonus of $7.5 million overshadowing his base pay of $5 million.
It’s essential to recognize that these staggering figures do not capture the full financial picture for these drivers. Additional income streams from sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and social media ventures are not included, nor do these figures account for taxes.
Forbes has meticulously compiled these estimates based on a combination of financial documents, legal filings, press reports, and insider insights, ensuring that this list reflects the reality of the F1 financial landscape.
Here’s the full breakdown of the highest-paid F1 drivers for 2025:
– Max Verstappen – $76 million – Lewis Hamilton – $70.5 million – Lando Norris – $57.5 million – Oscar Piastri – $37.5 million – Charles Leclerc – $30 million – Fernando Alonso – $26.5 million – George Russell – $26 million – Lance Stroll – $13.5 million – Carlos Sainz – $13 million – Kimi Antonelli – $12.5 million
As the new season approaches, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Verstappen continue to reign supreme, or will rising stars like Norris and Piastri disrupt the balance of power? One thing is for certain: the battle for supremacy is just as fierce off the track as it is on it!









