F1 2025: Shocking Salaries Unveiled – Hamilton Rich, but Verstappen Reigns Supreme!
In a jaw-dropping revelation that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, Forbes has released its much-anticipated list of the highest-earning Formula 1 drivers for 2025. The numbers are nothing short of staggering, illustrating the immense financial clout of the sport. Lewis Hamilton, the legendary driver who has dominated the F1 scene, has secured a lucrative deal with Ferrari, raking in a staggering $70.5 million. However, despite this eye-popping figure, he finds himself in the shadow of none other than Max Verstappen.
The reigning champion, Verstappen, has once again proven his prowess, not just on the track but in the financial arena, with a mind-boggling total compensation of $76 million. This figure, which includes both his hefty salary and bonuses, places him firmly at the pinnacle of driver earnings, making it clear that he is the top dog in the world of F1 for 2025. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s second-place standing in earnings reflects his continued influence and legacy in the sport, even if he can’t seem to clinch the top position in races anymore.
In an astonishing turn of events, the newly-crowned champion Lando Norris has burst onto the scene, securing the third spot on the earnings list with $57.5 million. This meteoric rise exemplifies the changing dynamics within F1, showcasing a new generation of talent ready to take the reins.
Here’s the complete breakdown of the top 10 highest-paid drivers in F1 for 2025:
1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing): $65 million salary + $11 million bonus = $76 million total 2. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari): $70 million salary + $0.5 million bonus = $70.5 million total 3. Lando Norris (McLaren): $18 million salary + $39.5 million bonus = $57.5 million total 4. Oscar Piastri (McLaren): $10 million salary + $27.5 million bonus = $37.5 million total 5. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari): $30 million salary + $0 bonus = $30 million total 6. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin): $24 million salary + $2.5 million bonus = $26.5 million total 7. George Russell (Mercedes): $15 million salary + $11 million bonus = $26 million total 8. Lance Stroll (Aston Martin): $12 million salary + $1.5 million bonus = $13.5 million total 9. Carlos Sainz (Williams): $10 million salary + $3 million bonus = $13 million total 10. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes): $5 million salary + $7.5 million bonus = $12.5 million total
These figures underscore not just the financial allure of F1 but also the fierce competition among the sport’s elite. As Hamilton continues to chase his legacy, the race for the top spot in earnings is as intense as the races themselves. The question looms: will Hamilton reclaim his glory on the track, or will Verstappen’s dominance extend beyond salary into the championship standings? One thing is for certain – the world of Formula 1 is richer, both in talent and in dollars, than ever before.
