Lewis Hamilton’s monumental F1 salary sets him apart from his competitors in the sport, with his earnings exceeding those of some of his F1 rivals by over 50 times, as reported by Wales Online. The disparity in pay among Formula 1 drivers has come into focus, with Hamilton and Max Verstappen leading the pack as the highest-paid drivers for the 2025 season.
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari for the upcoming season has been met with great anticipation as he embarks on a new chapter with the legendary team. The British driver’s move to the iconic red brand was confirmed in 2024, and the Australian Grand Prix will mark his first race with the Prancing Horse. Apart from the historic significance of his partnership with Ferrari, Hamilton is set to benefit financially from his new venture, having signed a two-year contract reportedly valued at a staggering £48 million annually.
Despite Hamilton’s lucrative deal, it is Max Verstappen who currently holds the title for the highest-earning driver in Formula 1, raking in an impressive £52 million per year with Red Bull. The disparity in earnings becomes evident when comparing the salaries of other drivers on the grid. Liam Lawson, Verstappen’s teammate at Red Bull, will be earning a mere £800,000 per year, highlighting the significant gap between the top-tier and lower-tier drivers in terms of income.
Further down the salary scale, drivers like Isack Hadjar of Racing Bulls and Alpine prospect Jack Doohan are reported to earn around £700,000 per year, underscoring the substantial difference in earnings compared to the top earners in the sport. In the realm of the highest-paid drivers after Hamilton and Verstappen, Charles Leclerc comes in third with a yearly salary of £27 million, reflecting the varying financial landscapes within Formula 1.
The reshuffling of drivers within teams has also impacted salary structures, with drivers like Lando Norris, George Russell, and Carlos Sainz adjusting to new roles and pay grades. Norris, who matched his salary with McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri at £18 million per year, and Russell, who reportedly earns £12 million as Hamilton’s successor at Mercedes, showcase the dynamic nature of driver salaries in F1.
The competitive nature of Formula 1 extends beyond the racetrack to the realm of salaries, as drivers like Pierre Gasly, Alexander Albon, and Esteban Ocon each earn varying amounts, reflecting the diversity of financial arrangements within the sport. As the 2025 season unfolds, the financial dynamics of Formula 1 continue to evolve, with drivers’ performances on the track often translating into significant differences in earnings off the track.
In conclusion, the disparity in salaries among Formula 1 drivers underscores the complex financial landscape of the sport, with top-tier drivers like Hamilton and Verstappen commanding substantial earnings, while others navigate differing pay structures based on team dynamics and performance. The 2025 season promises to showcase not only thrilling races on the circuit but also the intriguing interplay of wealth and talent within the world of Formula 1.