Max Verstappen, the 26-year-old Dutch Formula 1 driver, has firmly established himself as the most dominant force in the sport in recent years.
Having won the 2021, 2022, and 2023 Formula 1 World Championships, Verstappen has become one of the highest-paid athletes globally. His meteoric rise began when he became the youngest-ever Formula 1 Grand Prix winner at just 18 years old in 2016, racing for Red Bull.
Since then, he has maintained a position at the forefront of the sport, consistently winning races and breaking records.
Verstappen’s remarkable success on the track has translated into enormous financial rewards. In 2022, he signed a historic contract extension with Red Bull, reportedly worth over $50 million annually, ensuring his place with the team through the 2028 season.
Forbes estimates that Verstappen earned approximately $60 million between May 2022 and May 2023 from his racing career alone.
Adding endorsements with brands like Heineken and Electronic Arts, which bring in an additional $4 million annually, Verstappen’s net worth is estimated at $164 million as of 2023.
Max uses his vast fortune to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle befitting a top-tier athlete. He resides in a $16 million luxury apartment in Monaco, a city renowned for its opulence.
Additionally, Verstappen has a personal jet, a Dassault Falcon-900EX, which he purchased in 2020 for $15 million.
The jet is outfitted with a race simulator, reflecting his passion for racing even while traveling.
His car collection is another testament to his love for speed, featuring luxury vehicles like an Audi R8, Bugatti Chiron, Ferrari Monza SP2, and a $4.5 million Aston Martin Valkyrie, a collaboration between Aston Martin and Red Bull.
Despite his wealth and fame, Verstappen remains grounded and values quality time with his loved ones.
He often spends his downtime with his long-term girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, and their families, traveling to various destinations worldwide.
However, Verstappen’s spending isn’t solely focused on personal indulgence. He is also dedicated to philanthropy and giving back. He has auctioned off race suits worn during major victories, with the proceeds benefiting charitable causes.
For example, after his 2023 Canadian Grand Prix win, he raised $139,000 for the nonprofit Wings for Life, which funds research into spinal cord injuries.
He also raised $273,000 for the same organization the previous year through a signed helmet auction.
Additionally, Verstappen has participated in charity soccer matches, philanthropic virtual races, and donated to help wildlife, such as aiding koalas affected by wildfires.
Max Verstappen’s combination of on-track success, high earnings, a lavish lifestyle, and dedication to philanthropy showcases a balanced approach to fame and fortune.
While he continues to break records on the track, he is also committed to using his platform and wealth to support causes close to his heart.