In Formula 1, the spotlight often shines brightest on the drivers, but the real foundations of success are built behind the scenes. Team principals, technical directors, and elite engineers play vital roles in crafting championship-winning teams — and their salaries reflect just how crucial they are. As competition intensifies on and off the track, these highly paid masterminds are driving innovation, performance, and strategy at the highest level.
Here’s a look at the 13 highest-paid non-drivers in Formula 1 today — the brains and leaders powering the sport’s relentless pursuit of glory.
13. Simon Rennie – £800,000 – Red Bull Racing
Simon Rennie, now working as a performance engineer, remains a key part of Red Bull’s engineering excellence. His technical know-how ensures every fraction of performance is extracted from the car.
12. Peter Bonnington – £1 million – Mercedes
Known worldwide as “Bono,” Peter Bonnington has guided Lewis Hamilton through some of the most iconic moments in F1 history. His experience and rapport with Hamilton are priceless for Mercedes.
11. Jody Egginton – £1.3 million – RB
As Technical Director of Red Bull’s sister team, Jody Egginton oversees development to keep the junior team competitive and producing future F1 stars.
10. Matt Harman – £1.4 million – Alpine
Matt Harman brings a wealth of technical knowledge to Alpine. His leadership has been key in the team’s effort to close the gap to F1’s top teams.
9. Enrico Cardile – £1.6 million – Ferrari
Enrico Cardile, Ferrari’s former chassis technical director, has been at the heart of the team’s design innovations. After two decades with the Scuderia, Cardile resigned and agreed to join Aston Martin in 2025. However, Ferrari recently won a legal case in the Court of Modena, preventing him from starting work at Aston Martin until July 18, 2025. The court ruled that Cardile was already in violation of his non-compete agreement and ordered him to cease any collaboration with Aston Martin immediately.
8. Pierre Waché – £2 million – Red Bull Racing
A major force behind Red Bull’s aerodynamic dominance, Pierre Waché is instrumental in creating some of the fastest and most consistent cars on the grid.
7. Adrian Newey – £2.8 million – Red Bull Racing
Legendary designer Adrian Newey remains a cornerstone of Red Bull’s success. His creativity and vision have won championships across three decades.
6. James Allison – £2.8 million – Mercedes
As Chief Technical Officer at Mercedes, James Allison’s leadership and design expertise have been central to the team’s golden era.
5. Mike Krack – £4 million – Aston Martin
Mike Krack’s steady hand has helped Aston Martin grow into a serious competitor, bringing consistency and ambition to the project.
4. Andrea Stella – £4.8 million – McLaren
Leading McLaren’s resurgence, Andrea Stella’s technical mind and methodical approach have helped elevate the team back toward the front.
3. Frederic Vasseur – £6.1 million – Ferrari
At the helm of Ferrari, Frederic Vasseur has combined tactical sharpness and leadership to revitalize the team’s ambitions.
2. Toto Wolff – £6.6 million – Mercedes
As team principal and part-owner of Mercedes, Toto Wolff is one of the most influential figures in motorsport. His leadership style is often cited as a key reason behind the team’s sustained success.
1. Christian Horner – £8 million – Red Bull Racing
Christian Horner sits at the top of the list. His leadership has guided Red Bull through multiple championship wins and established him as arguably the most recognizable team boss in Formula 1.
