Hamilton Leads F1 Drivers on Sportico’s 2025 Highest-Paid Athletes List

Lewis Hamilton remains the financial king of Formula 1, ranking 11th on Sportico’s 2025 list of highest-paid athletes with $100 million in total earnings. He is joined by Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Oscar Piastri, underscoring the massive revenue generation at the pinnacle of motorsport despite the sport's competitive volatility.

Why it matters:

The list highlights the widening gap between the elite few and the rest of the grid, particularly in commercial value. While performance dictates salary, Hamilton’s ability to generate revenue outside the car keeps him ahead of his younger, championship-winning rivals. This proves that brand equity is just as valuable as lap times in the modern era of F1.

The details:

• Hamilton's Dominance: The Ferrari driver earns $70 million from salary and winnings, but his $30 million in endorsements is the highest among F1 drivers. His portfolio includes Dior, Lululemon, and Perplexity, alongside his role as an executive producer for the upcoming F1 film starring Brad Pitt.
• Verstappen's Prowess: The three-time champion sits at 15th place with $75 million in on-track earnings. However, his off-track income ($8 million) trails Hamilton significantly, reflecting a different commercial strategy focused on performance-based rewards.
• McLaren's Duo: Lando Norris (32nd) and Oscar Piastri (96th) also made the cut. Norris secured $54 million in salary with $5 million in endorsements, while Piastri's rising status translated to $35 million in earnings and $3 million in endorsements.

Between the lines:

Hamilton’s impending move to Ferrari appears to have only bolstered his commercial appeal, allowing him to maintain a financial edge over Verstappen despite the Red Bull driver's recent on-track superiority. With 42.1 million Instagram followers, Hamilton’s reach extends far beyond the track, ensuring he remains the sport's most marketable asset even as he approaches the twilight of his career.