Top 10 Highest-Paid F1 Drivers in 2025
From seasoned veterans to rising stars, Formula 1 drivers are some of the best-paid athletes in the world. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 earners on the current grid—ranked by base salary, excluding bonuses and endorsements.
Nico Hülkenberg – Sauber – £5.4m / $7m
Despite never reaching the podium, Hülkenberg remains a respected and reliable driver in the paddock. His $7 million salary shows that experience still holds value, especially for teams like Sauber aiming for consistency and car development.
Alex Albon – Williams – £6.2m / $8m
Albon has proven himself as a sharp and consistent driver, helping to revive Williams’ competitiveness. His $8 million paycheck is a sign of the team’s trust in his long-term role in their rebuilding efforts.
Pierre Gasly – Alpine – £7.7m / $10m
With a Grand Prix win under his belt and consistent midfield performances, Gasly commands a solid $10 million. He continues to be a dependable and aggressive racer, giving Alpine a strong foothold in the constructors' fight.
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Carlos Sainz – Williams – £7.7m / $10m
After his Ferrari exit, Sainz has found a fresh start at Williams. The $10 million salary reflects both his proven track record and the leadership he’s expected to bring to a developing team.
George Russell – Mercedes – £11.6m / $15m
As Mercedes looks to return to championship-winning form, Russell is seen as their next-generation leader. His $15 million salary shows the team's belief in his talent and future potential.
Lando Norris – McLaren – £15.5m / $20m
Norris continues to shine on and off the track, blending strong performances with commercial success. McLaren reward him with a $20 million deal, reflecting both his driving ability and his growing influence in F1 media and fan circles.
Fernando Alonso – Aston Martin – £15.5m / $20m
At 43, Alonso proves that age is just a number. With a $20 million salary, he remains one of the most competitive and respected drivers on the grid, providing critical experience to Aston Martin's campaign.
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Charles Leclerc – Ferrari – £26.3m / $34m
Ferrari has put its faith in Leclerc as the team's long-term future. At $34 million, his salary underscores his value as a top-tier driver capable of challenging for championships.
Lewis Hamilton – Ferrari – £46.3m / $60m
Hamilton's sensational move to Ferrari in 2025 comes with a hefty $60 million salary. Even with a slight pay cut from his Mercedes days, his brand power and global fanbase keep him near the top of the earnings list.
Max Verstappen – Red Bull – £50m / $65m
Verstappen leads the field not just on the track but on the payroll, too. With a $65 million base salary, he remains the sport’s top earner—unsurprising for a multi-time world champion dominating in a top car.
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