Max Verstappen has been named one of the top younger earners in the world of sports.
In a report by Forbes, which listed the highest-paid athletes aged 25 and under in the world, the two-time Formula 1 World Champion placed third.
It states that Verstappen received a “substantial raise” when he signed his latest Red Bull contract that ties him to the team until at least the end of 2028.
Over the past year, Forbes claims that Verstappen was paid a total of $64 million (£51m).
This figure also includes bonus payments, with the report outlining that the Dutchman is “believed to receive lucrative bonuses for race wins as well as the season-long title”.
Verstappen won his maiden F1 championship in 2021 following an intense battle against Lewis Hamilton, before dominating the 2022 season en route to his second title.
He won 15 races during the year, setting a new record for F1.
Verstappen’s total ‘on-field’ earnings through Red Bull tallied at $60m, with Forbes explaining what is included in the extra ‘off-field’ earnings.
“Off-field earnings figures are an estimate of sponsorship deals, appearance fees and memorabilia and licensing income for the 12 months leading to May 1, 2023, plus cash returns from any businesses operated by the athlete, based on conversations with industry insiders.
“Forbes does not include investment income such as interest payments or dividends but does account for payouts from equity stakes athletes have sold.”
Ahead of Verstappen in the list are Paris Saint-German and France forward Kylian Mbappe and NFL player Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals, who pocketed $120m and $70.5m respectively.
Below Verstappen was Manchester City striker Erling Haaland ($40m) and Dallas Mavericks point guard Luka Doncic ($37.2m).
