Several Formula 1 drivers have secured spots on Sportico's list of the 2025 100 highest-paid athletes worldwide. The rankings highlight the sport's financial appeal through salaries, endorsements, and off-track ventures. Lewis Hamilton leads the F1 contingent at 11th overall.
Sportico's 2025 ranking of the world's highest-paid athletes estimates total earnings from salaries, winnings, endorsements, appearances, licensing, and other business income for the calendar year. The top 100 athletes across eight sports and 28 countries amassed $6.05 billion, with a cutoff of approximately $37.9 million.
All four motorsport athletes on the list hail from Formula 1, underscoring the series' global dominance in earnings compared to other racing disciplines. No drivers from NASCAR or IndyCar, such as Kyle Busch or Scott Dixon, made the cut, attributed to lower base pay and fewer international sponsorships.
Lewis Hamilton ranks 11th overall, bolstered by his move to Ferrari and ventures in fashion and investments. Max Verstappen follows at 15th, benefiting from Red Bull's on-track success. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, both from McLaren, place at 32nd and 96th respectively, reflecting their rising profiles but lesser experience.
F1 drivers' earnings compete with top NFL and NBA stars but lag behind soccer icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, due to fewer events and team revenue structures. The sport's popularity surge, fueled by Netflix's Drive to Survive, has enhanced individual branding and sponsorship opportunities.
For comparison, Forbes' May 2025 list, covering mid-2024 to mid-2025, reported Ronaldo at $275 million and Hamilton at $80 million (22nd). Sportico's calendar-year approach provides a more current snapshot for 2026 discussions.
This ranking illustrates how F1 success translates to substantial off-track income in a field dominated by team sports.
