Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, not only promises adrenaline-fueled action but also offers its drivers the opportunity to amass incredible fortunes. With luxurious properties in places like Monaco and sponsorship deals worth millions, F1 drivers have become synonymous with wealth and success. Let’s take a look at the top 10 richest drivers in F1 history, as estimated by GQ.
10. Alain Prost – £78 Million
The Frenchman, known as “The Professor,” once held the record for the most F1 grand prix wins before Michael Schumacher shattered it. Prost’s four championship titles and legendary rivalry with Ayrton Senna defined an era of high-stakes racing and immense financial rewards.
9. Eddie Irvine – £93 Million
Eddie Irvine, who raced in F1 from 1993 to 2002, was the 1999 runner-up with Ferrari. Outside the racetrack, Irvine built a substantial property portfolio, significantly boosting his net worth.
8. Mario Andretti – £101 Million
Mario Andretti’s name is synonymous with motorsport success. Winning in Formula One, IndyCar, and even NASCAR, he earned a fortune that places him among the elite. The Andretti legacy continues with his son Michael’s ambitions to return to F1 as a team owner.
7. Sebastian Vettel – £109 Million
A four-time F1 champion, Vettel brought glory to Red Bull during their dominant years. While his Ferrari stint didn’t yield titles, it did contribute significantly to his wealth. Though retired from F1, Vettel may explore racing in the World Endurance Championship in 2024.
6. Jenson Button – £117 Million
The 2009 F1 world champion enjoyed lucrative contracts during his time with McLaren and Brawn. Button’s post-racing ventures, including business investments and a role as a Sky Sports broadcaster, keep his bank balance healthy.
5. Niki Lauda – £157 Million
Three-time world champion Niki Lauda was as successful off the track as on it. From owning an airline to inspiring the Hollywood film Rush, Lauda’s ventures cemented his legendary status and wealth.
4. Kimi Räikkönen – £143 Million
“The Iceman” secured one of the largest contracts in F1 history during his Ferrari years. Beyond F1, Räikkönen competed in the World Rally Championship and NASCAR and has since taken on a leadership role in motocross.
3. Fernando Alonso – £204 Million
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso remains an active and formidable competitor. His longevity in F1, driving for teams like Renault, Ferrari, and Aston Martin, has made him one of the wealthiest in the sport.
2. Lewis Hamilton – £223 Million
Seven world titles and years of high-paying Mercedes contracts have placed Hamilton among the wealthiest athletes globally. His ventures include investments in the Denver Broncos and a vegan burger brand valued at £100 million.
1. Michael Schumacher – £472 Million
The legendary Michael Schumacher, with seven world titles, amassed the largest fortune in F1 history. His unparalleled success with Ferrari and strategic ventures off the track solidify his position as the sport’s richest driver.
