World Champion Lando Norris Ranks Third Among Highest-Paid F1 Drivers

Verstappen Leads F1 Earnings in 2025 as Norris Ranks Third Despite Title Win

Newly crowned Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris finished third on the list of the sport’s highest-earning drivers for the 2025 season, highlighting the growing gap between championship success and commercial earnings in modern F1. Despite losing the title by a narrow two-point margin, Max Verstappen retained the top position in overall income.

Verstappen Maintains Top Earning Status

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen earned an estimated $76 million during the 2025 season. His income included a $65 million base salary and around $11 million in performance bonuses . Consistent podium finishes and strong contractual terms ensured Verstappen remained Formula 1’s highest-paid driver, underlining Red Bull’s continued financial commitment to him.

Norris Third Despite Championship Triumph

Lando Norris earned approximately $57.5 million , placing him behind Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton . While his base salary stood at $18 million , a substantial $39.5 million bonus reflected McLaren’s championship success. Following an intense season, Norris has indicated plans to step back temporarily, prioritising rest and personal time before preparations for the next campaign begin.

Other Top Earners in 2025

Lewis Hamilton ranked second , earning about $70.5 million despite a challenging year with Ferrari. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri followed with $37.5 million , having mounted a strong title challenge in the season’s first half. Charles Leclerc earned around $30 million , while veterans and rising stars such as Fernando Alonso, George Russell, Lance Stroll, Carlos Sainz and Kimi Antonelli rounded out the top ten.

Looking Ahead to the Next Season

With major regulatory changes set to take effect, teams are preparing for shifts in competitive balance ahead of the Australian Grand Prix in March, promising another unpredictable Formula 1 season.

Exam Point

• Max Verstappen topped 2025 earnings with $76 million .

• Lando Norris earned $57.5 million , ranking third .

• Lewis Hamilton earned $70.5 million , ranking second.

• Oscar Piastri’s earnings: $37.5 million .