Formula 1 drivers are some of the most elite athletes in the world, pushing the boundaries of human skill and courage behind the wheel of high-powered machines. Their talent and dedication are handsomely rewarded, with the top drivers commanding salaries that reflect their star power and championship potential.

Here’s a look at the top 10 highest-paid Formula 1 drivers for the 2024 season:

Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing – $70 million [R1.3 billion]): The reigning champion remains unstoppable. Verstappen’s aggressive yet calculated driving has secured him three consecutive championships, making him a marketing goldmine for Red Bull.
Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes – $45 million [R816 million]): A legend with an unmatched seven World Championship titles, Hamilton remains a powerhouse. Though not currently dominating the podium, his experience, vast fan base, and marketability still command a top-tier salary. Sponsorship deals likely contribute significantly to his overall earnings potential.
Charles Leclerc (Ferrari – $34 million [R617 million]): The young Monegasque driver is a rising star, consistently pushing Verstappen for the championship. His talent and charisma have made him a vital asset to Ferrari, reflected in his multi-million dollar contract.
Sergio Pérez (Red Bull Racing – $26 million [R474 million]): Verstappen’s teammate, Pérez, plays a crucial role in Red Bull’s success. His consistent podium finishes and ability to support Verstappen solidify his place among the top earners.
Lando Norris (McLaren – $20 million [R372 million]): Despite not yet securing a championship win, Lando Norris has emerged as a breakout star. His consistent top performances and infectious personality have solidified his place among the sport’s highest earners, demonstrating McLaren’s commitment to building a team around his talent.
George Russell (Mercedes – $18 million [R329 million]): The young Briton has impressed in his first year with Mercedes, showcasing his potential to challenge for top honours in the future.
Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin – $18 million [R329 million]): The ever-competitive Spaniard’s experience and proven ability to deliver results make him a valuable asset to Aston Martin. His salary reflects a base combined with potential performance-based bonuses.
Carlos Sainz (Ferrari – $12 million [R218 million]): Leclerc’s teammate at Ferrari, Sainz consistently delivers strong results, solidifying his position among the sport’s top earners.
Valtteri Bottas (Alfa Romeo – $10 million [R182 million]): The experienced Finn continues to be a reliable driver, bringing valuable experience to Alfa Romeo.

It’s important to note that a driver’s total income can extend beyond base salary and these are merely just estimations of how much they earn. Lucrative sponsorship deals with major brands can significantly increase their earnings. While Lewis Hamilton might not currently top the salary charts, his impressive portfolio of sponsorships could potentially push his total earnings higher than Max Verstappen’s. The landscape of F1 driver salaries reflects the sport’s growing global popularity. Drivers are no longer just athletes; they are global brands with significant marketability that plays a major role in their earning potential.