Hamilton deals Verstappen blow after RECORD Ferrari salary eclipse……read more
Max Verstappen has suffered a setback in his battle with Formula 1 rival Lewis Hamilton, as a recent report reveals that Hamilton’s salary from his Ferrari deal will eclipse Verstappen’s earnings at Red Bull. The two drivers have dominated Formula 1 in recent years, with Verstappen securing a fourth consecutive drivers’ title in 2024, and Hamilton winning six championships between 2014 and 2020 with Mercedes. They have claimed 10 out of the last 11 titles, with former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg taking the only exception in 2016 after a fierce intra-team rivalry.
In terms of earnings, Verstappen topped the list of Formula 1’s highest-paid drivers in 2024, with Forbes reporting that the reigning champion earned a total of $75 million from his salary and bonuses. Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, came in second place, taking home $57 million. This total comprised $55 million in salary, plus an additional $2 million in performance-related bonuses. Behind them, McLaren’s Lando Norris earned $35 million, with $12 million in salary and $23 million in bonuses.
However, Hamilton’s lucrative Ferrari contract has shifted the landscape for 2025. Forbes reports that his salary from Ferrari is set to surpass Verstappen’s total earnings from Red Bull, making him the highest-paid driver in Formula 1. This move represents a significant step for Hamilton, who has established himself as one of the sport’s most successful and marketable stars. While Verstappen remains the dominant force on the track, Hamilton’s new deal could now see him lead in financial terms as well, making him not only a competitive driver but also a top earner.
This salary shift comes as Hamilton prepares to embark on a new chapter with Ferrari, following his long-standing association with Mercedes. With Verstappen’s Red Bull team continuing to dominate the sport in terms of performance, Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is seen as a potential game-changer both on and off the track. The financials behind Hamilton’s switch signal his continued influence in Formula 1 and a shift in the power dynamics within the sport, as he and Verstappen continue their rivalry both in terms of championships and earnings.
As 2025 approaches, the battle between these two titans of Formula 1 will not only continue to captivate fans but now also set the stage for an intriguing financial showdown. With Hamilton’s Ferrari contract poised to make him the highest-paid driver, the financial rivalry between him and Verstappen will add a new layer of excitement to their ongoing competition.
