The 15 Highest-Paid IndyCar Drivers in 2025 – Ranked from Lowest to Highest

June 23, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

IndyCar might not match Formula 1’s global financial muscle, but its top stars are still very well compensated. While most drivers in the series earn modest six-figure salaries, a select few pull in multi-million-pound contracts that reflect their talent, marketability, and race-winning pedigree.

Below is a countdown of the 15 highest-paid drivers in IndyCar for the 2025 season, starting from number 15 and working our way up to the sport’s top earner.

15. Romain Grosjean – £276,500 per year

The former Formula 1 driver continues to compete in IndyCar with Juncos Hollinger Racing. Though his salary is modest by motorsport standards, Grosjean remains a respected veteran presence on the grid.

14. Rinus VeeKay – £276,500 per year

Dutch driver Rinus VeeKay, racing for Ed Carpenter Racing, earns the same as Grosjean. A consistent midfield competitor, he has shown flashes of raw speed since entering the series.

13. Simon Pagenaud – £400,530 per year

The 2016 IndyCar champion and 2019 Indy 500 winner finds himself further down the pay scale in recent years. Despite the dip, Pagenaud remains one of the most experienced drivers in the field.

12. Conor Daly – £416,409 per year

A popular figure among fans, Conor Daly continues to make the most of his opportunities. His earnings reflect his role as a reliable and marketable journeyman in the series.

11. Alexander Rossi – £433,920 per year

The 2016 Indianapolis 500 winner has seen his stock dip slightly, but he still commands a solid salary. Racing with Arrow McLaren, Rossi remains one of the more high-profile names on the grid.

10. Álex Palou – £449,984 per year

Alex Palou — Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock.com

Despite being a two-time series champion, Palou’s base salary is surprisingly low compared to his success. However, he supplements his income through bonuses and endorsements.

9. Felix Rosenqvist – £450,695 per year

Swedish driver Felix Rosenqvist earns just a shade more than Palou. A consistent top-ten contender, he now drives for Meyer Shank Racing and continues to prove his value.

8. Scott McLaughlin – £2,370,000 per year

The former Supercars champion has adapted impressively to IndyCar with Team Penske. His high salary reflects his performance potential and marketability in both the US and Australia.

7. Will Power – £2,370,000 per year

A former champion and Indy 500 winner, Power remains a core member of Team Penske. His pay underscores his veteran status and long-term contributions to the team’s success.

6. Josef Newgarden – £2,370,000 per year

Newgarden is one of the most decorated American drivers in recent IndyCar history. With multiple championships and a 2023 Indy 500 victory, his salary is well earned.

5. Marcus Ericsson – £2,370,000 per year

Ericsson transitioned successfully from Formula 1 to IndyCar, highlighted by his 2022 Indy 500 win. Now with Andretti, he is rewarded with a top-tier salary.

4. Kyle Kirkwood – £2,765,000 per year

A rising star in the Andretti lineup, Kirkwood has rapidly established himself as one to watch. His salary reflects his growing importance to the team’s future plans.

3. Scott Dixon – £3,555,000 per year

One of the greatest drivers in IndyCar history, Dixon continues to perform at an elite level with Chip Ganassi Racing. His consistent success justifies his status as one of the highest earners.

2. Pato O’Ward – £3,160,000 per year

The dynamic Mexican driver has become a fan favorite with Arrow McLaren. His blend of aggression, flair, and marketability makes him one of the series’ most valuable assets.

1. Colton Herta – £5,530,000 per year

Topping the list, Herta is the highest-paid driver in IndyCar. The Andretti star is seen as the future face of American open-wheel racing, and his salary reflects both his potential and commercial appeal.