Hamilton deals Verstappen blow after RECORD Ferrari salary emerges during a… read more
Max Verstappen’s Reign as Highest-Paid F1 Driver Comes to an End
The world of Formula 1 has witnessed a significant shift in the balance of power, both on and off the track. Max Verstappen, the reigning champion, has dominated the sport in recent years, claiming four consecutive drivers’ championships. However, his reign as the highest-paid F1 driver has come to an end, thanks to Lewis Hamilton’s lucrative deal with Ferrari.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, has been one of the most dominant forces in F1, claiming six championships between 2014 and 2020 with Mercedes. His move to Ferrari has sent shockwaves through the paddock, and his salary has been the subject of much speculation.
According to Forbes, Verstappen was the top earner in 2024, taking home a staggering $75 million, including salary and bonuses. Hamilton, on the other hand, earned $57 million as part of his Mercedes contract in 2024, with a $55 million salary and $2 million in bonuses.
However, Hamilton’s Ferrari deal has changed the landscape of F1 salaries. Forbes reports that Hamilton’s new deal with Ferrari has propelled him to the top of the earnings list, surpassing Verstappen’s salary at Red Bull.
This development is a significant blow to Verstappen, who has been the dominant force in F1 in recent years. Despite his on-track success, he can no longer claim to be the highest-paid driver in the sport.
The news has sent ripples through the F1 community, with many wondering how this will affect the dynamics between Verstappen and Hamilton. The two drivers have been rivals for years, and this development adds a new layer of complexity to their relationship.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Hamilton and Verstappen as they battle it out for supremacy on the track. While Verstappen may still be the reigning champion, Hamilton’s lucrative deal with Ferrari has given him a significant advantage off the track.
The question on everyone’s mind is: how will this affect the balance of power in F1? Will Hamilton’s new deal give him the edge he needs to reclaim the championship, or will Verstappen’s on-track prowess prove too much for him to handle? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the 2025 F1 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
