British racers have been dominating Formula 1 for decades, both on the track and financially. With icons like Lewis Hamilton, Nigel Mansell, and Jenson Button, the United Kingdom has not only produced champions but also high earners. But who has earned the most? We look at the five highest-earning British drivers ever, based on their estimated total wealth. We also show how they amassed their fortunes — sometimes from unexpected corners. Which British legend tops the list? We count down from 5 to the undisputed number 1. Let’s go!
5. David Coulthard – $70 million
Born in Twynholm, Coulthard was one of the most consistent drivers of his time. He made his debut in 1994 with Williams and later drove for McLaren and Red Bull. With 13 Grand Prix victories, he became one of the most successful British drivers without a world title.
Earnings
His contract with McLaren reportedly earned him $6.5 million per year. In addition, he built a successful media career and had various business ventures, including a hotel in Monaco.
Fun fact
After his F1 career, Coulthard secured a lucrative deal with Mercedes as a brand ambassador, providing him with a steady income stream for many years. He also earned millions from exclusive VIP racing events he organized for companies.
4. Damon Hill – $70 million
Hill, son of two-time world champion Graham Hill, made his debut in 1992 with Brabham and became world champion with Williams in 1996. He achieved 22 Grand Prix victories and was one of the best drivers on the grid for many years.
Earnings
Hill earned substantial salaries at Williams and later at Jordan. His contract with Williams reportedly earned him $7 million per year. After his F1 career, he made millions as a co-owner of the prestigious Silverstone Racing School.
Fun fact
After his Formula 1 career, Damon Hill lent his name to exclusive watches. He collaborated with TW Steel on the TW1018 Fast Lane Damon Hill Limited Edition.
3. Nigel Mansell – $90 million
Nigel Mansell was known for his aggressive driving style and determination. He became the world champion in 1992 with Williams and achieved a total of 31 Grand Prix victories.
Earnings
Mansell earned significant amounts during his time with Williams and Ferrari. After his F1 career, he switched to the American CART series, where he became the champion in 1993, further increasing his income.
Fun fact
Besides racing, Mansell invested in a golf and country club, where he could combine his passion for golf with a new stream of income.
2. Jenson Button – $150 million
Jenson Button became the world champion in 2009 with Brawn GP and later drove for McLaren, where he was a teammate of Lewis Hamilton. He achieved a total of 15 Grand Prix victories and was known for his smooth driving style and intelligence on the track.
Earnings
Button earned millions with contracts at Honda, Brawn GP, and McLaren. His contract with McLaren reportedly earned him $16.5 million per year. In addition, he had sponsorship deals with Hugo Boss and Tag Heuer. After his F1 career, Button became a co-owner of Radford Motors, a luxury coachbuilder specializing in exclusive custom-made cars.
Fun fact
Unexpectedly for a car driver, Button also launched his own whisky brand, Coachbuilt Whisky.
1. Lewis Hamilton – $285 million
The absolute number 1, financially as well, is of course Lewis Hamilton. This will surprise no one, as he is often mentioned in the GOAT discussion of Formula 1. With seven world titles and records for the most victories and pole positions, he is the most successful British driver of all time.
Earnings
Hamilton has had lucrative contracts with McLaren and Mercedes, with an annual salary that reportedly reached $55 million. In addition, he has sponsorship deals with brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Monster Energy, and Puma.
Fun fact
In 2024, Hamilton became a brand ambassador for Dior, further expanding his influence beyond motorsports. He has also invested in music and lifestyle, and previously launched a clothing line with Tommy Hilfiger.
