Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen engage in a conversation.
Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton ensured that Formula 1 was represented as Forbes revealed their 2024 highest-paid athletes list.
Verstappen and Hamilton, the drivers whose names will forever be linked due to their intense battle for the 2021 championship title, have solidified themselves as arguably the most prominent figures on the F1 grid. The recognition they have gained has undeniably reflected in their financial gains for the year 2024.
Max Verstappen pips Lewis Hamilton in Forbes 2024 list
The figures are in from Forbes to reveal some truly eye-watering pay packets across the world of sport, their figures taken from the range May 1 2023 – May 1 2024 and formed via ‘conversations with dozens of industry insiders’, as well as from media reports and salary databases.
Verstappen secures the 17th spot on this list, with an impressive total income of $81 million. Out of this, $76 million is earned through his performances on the track, while the remaining $5 million is generated off-track, mainly from endorsement deals as is common for Formula 1 drivers.
It comes as no surprise to see the Dutchman, Verstappen, as the highest-earning driver on the grid, considering his establishment as the dominant force in Formula 1. With three successive World titles and a fourth likely to follow in F1 2024, Verstappen has solidified his position at the top.
However, not trailing far behind is Hamilton, whom Verstappen displaced from the top of the F1 standings. Hamilton continues to be arguably the most commercially attractive driver in the series, amassing a total of $69 million in earnings.
Unlike Verstappen, Hamilton’s total income of $57m was not heavily skewed towards on-track earnings. The remaining $12m was earned off-track.
Despite holding numerous records in Formula 1, including the most wins, poles, and podiums in history, as well as an impressive seven World Championship titles, Hamilton is currently experiencing an extended period without victory. His last win dates back to the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
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With their impressive statistics, the pair managed to outshine numerous renowned athletes, including Nick Bosa, the formidable defensive end of the San Francisco 49ers, Tiger Woods, the golfing icon, Erling Haaland, the striking force of Manchester City, and Tyson Fury, the reigning boxing heavyweight champion.
However, the athlete in the P1 slot, which was reserved for football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, was untouchable.
Ronaldo, currently showcasing his skills in Saudi Arabia, amassed a staggering $260m in total earnings. $200m of this sum was derived from his performance on the field, while $60m was generated off the field.
Golfer John Rahm came closest with $218m, while football legend Lionel Messi completed the podium with $135m earned.
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