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Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are among the Formula One drivers currently earning incredible amounts of money. However, the question is whether they really deserve their high salaries. According to Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 world champion, both drivers deserve their high compensation, but he believes that the British driver is worth more than his Dutch counterpart.
In 2025, Verstappen, 27, and Hamilton, 38, continue to dominate Formula One. Verstappen's annual income is estimated at around $65 million, while Hamilton could earn around $60 million. Hamilton has further increased his market value after moving to Ferrari, the team he always dreamed of driving for, while he achieved all his previous successes with Mercedes.
Different approaches and values of drivers
Villeneuve argues that Hamilton's international image makes him more valuable than Verstappen's. "Hamilton is recognizable outside the world of Formula 1, while the 27-year-old from the Netherlands remains more focused on his racing achievements," said the Canadian.
Although Verstappen dominates on the track and brings victories to his team, Hamilton's brand and popularity outside the sport bring additional value. According to Villeneuve, both drivers have earned high salaries, but Hamilton's influence off the racetrack makes him more than just a driver.
Formula 1 fans often have different opinions about who the best driver of today is, but one thing is certai: Max Verstappen is well on his way to dethroning Lewis Hamilton. While Hamilton has achieved an incredible number of victories and records during his career, Verstappen’s dominance in recent seasons leaves little room for doubt. The Dutch driver has had impressive performances for several years now, making him a main contender for the title of the best driver in the world.
Verstappen’s driving skills are amazing, and his ability to remain calm under pressure, with victories at crucial moments makes him great.
Can a Dutchman change a Canadian's mind?
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