What Is Max Verstappen Net Worth?
Max Verstappen, the Belgian-Dutch racing prodigy, has amassed a substantial net worth estimated at $200 million. This impressive figure reflects his success and lucrative contracts within the high-octane world of Formula One racing. His journey to financial prominence began at a remarkably young age, setting him apart as one of the sport’s most exceptional talents.
Formula One Career Earnings and Contract Details
Verstappen’s financial success is intrinsically linked to his performance and the lucrative contracts he has secured with Red Bull Racing. In 2020, he inked a three-year contract extension that guaranteed him a flat annual salary of $55 million. This base salary alone positions him among the highest-paid drivers in Formula One. However, his earnings extend beyond his base salary.
In 2023, reports indicate that Verstappen’s total earnings from Red Bull alone reached $67 million. This figure is comprised of a $43 million salary and $24 million in performance-based bonuses. The significant bonus component highlights his exceptional driving skills and the substantial rewards tied to race victories and championship achievements.
Beyond his Red Bull contract, Verstappen also benefits from endorsement deals with prominent brands such as Heineken and EA Sports. These endorsements further augment his income, bringing his total earnings in 2023 to an estimated $80 million. Furthermore, as a resident of Monaco, Verstappen enjoys a favorable tax environment, as he does not pay income tax on his earnings.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on September 30, 1997, in Hasselt, Belgium, Max Emilian Verstappen was raised in a family deeply rooted in motorsports. His father, Jos Verstappen, was a former Formula One driver, and his mother, Sophie Kumpen, competed in karting. This family background provided Max with early exposure to the world of racing and a natural pathway into the sport. Although born in Belgium, Verstappen identifies as Dutch and competes under the Dutch flag.
Verstappen’s racing career commenced at the tender age of four, participating in karting competitions and securing numerous championships by 2007. In 2010, he transitioned to international karting, finishing second to Alexander Albon at the KF3 World Cup. Albon would later become his teammate at Red Bull Racing, illustrating the interconnectedness of the racing world. By the end of 2012, Verstappen had accumulated a string of championships at the international level, signaling his readiness to advance to Formula racing.
In 2013, Verstappen first experienced driving an actual race car, piloting a Formula Renault car at the Pembrey Circuit. He subsequently tested various Formula Renault cars over the next few years, consistently setting impressive lap times and outperforming more experienced drivers. In 2014, he officially debuted in racing at the Florida Winter Series. His rapid success led him to Formula Three, where he drove for a single season in the FIA European Championship, securing third place and winning ten races. His exceptional performance made it clear that Verstappen was prepared for Formula One.
In 2014, Verstappen joined the Red Bull Junior Team, despite offers from Mercedes. Later that year, at the Japanese Grand Prix, he became the youngest driver to ever compete in a Grand Prix Weekend, participating in the free practice session. At the age of 17, he became the youngest-ever driver to start a World Championship at the Australian Grand Prix, surpassing the previous record held by someone nearly two years older. While his first race ended in retirement due to engine failure, he soon achieved strong finishes. Despite a controversial high-speed collision with Romain Grosjean, which resulted in a penalty and the “dangerous” label from other drivers, Verstappen concluded the season with impressive results, earning accolades such as “Rookie of the Year,” “Personality of the Year,” and “Action of the Year.”
Verstappen began 2016 with Toro Rosso before transitioning to Red Bull, replacing Daniil Kyvyat for the Spanish Grand Prix. He validated his worth by winning the race, becoming the youngest Formula One driver to achieve this feat. Despite criticism for his aggressive driving style, he demonstrated exceptional skill during the Brazilian Grand Prix, moving from 16th place to the podium in just 15 laps. The 2017 season was marked by retirements due to collisions and mechanical failures. However, by the season’s end, Verstappen showed significant improvement. In 2018, he was involved in multiple incidents but finished the season strongly in fourth place. He continued to improve in 2019, finishing third with three victories and nine podium finishes. After extending his contract with Red Bull, Verstappen again finished third in 2020. In 2021, he battled with Lewis Hamilton for the championship, ultimately winning by overtaking Hamilton in the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In November 2023, Max secured his third consecutive driver’s world championship, further solidifying his legacy in Formula One.
Private Jet and Real Estate
Max Verstappen’s financial success has enabled him to acquire luxury assets, including a private jet and real estate. He reportedly owns a Falcon-900EX private jet, acquired from Richard Branson in 2020 for approximately 12 million pounds (about $16 million). This aircraft boasts Honeywell engines, a range of nearly 9,000 km, and a top speed of 892 kilometers per hour. Maintaining the jet is estimated to cost around 1 million pounds annually. The jet also features a bar.
Regarding real estate, Verstappen reportedly resides in a penthouse apartment in Monte Carlo valued at 13 million pounds, though some reports indicate he rents this residence. Despite speculation, Verstappen maintains that his choice of residence is not solely motivated by tax benefits.
Car Collection
As a Formula One driver, Max Verstappen maintains a collection of high-performance automobiles. He is known to have a preference for Aston Martins, and in 2021, he was awaiting the delivery of a 2-million-pound Valkyrie. The exact composition of his car collection remains private, but it likely includes other luxury and performance vehicles.