F1 is witnessing one of the hardest battles for the title ever taken place in the form of two incredibly talented top-class drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. After the latter’s British GP DNF, the gap between the duo has come down to less than 20 points, adding more spice to the title race.

Interestingly though, their rivalry isn’t just restricted to the actions on the track, but also off the track as well. Forbes released F1 drivers’ earnings over the 2021 season.

Of course, the past has always portrayed Hamilton leading a lonely race enjoying heavy pay while the others were far off. However, for the first time in years, there is another driver inching closer to the Briton in terms of yearly earnings. And it’s quite obvious who that driver is, but let’s spell it out for you – Max Verstappen.

Lewis Hamilton vs Max Verstappen

Hamilton still holds the pole position in the battle of earnings but isn’t necessarily far off the rest of the pack. The 7-time world champion is on road to earn a total sum of $62 million. Out of the hefty figure, $55 million will be his base salary, while the rest $7 million are bonuses for race wins.

This year’s potential on-track earning will only be $4 million shy of his earning in 2020, which witnessed Hamilton gain a whopping $66 million.

Behind the Briton stands the flying Dutchman, Verstappen.

The Red Bull driver enjoyed a massive hike in salary this season, projecting his total sum around $42 million, which also includes an incredible $17 million-worth bonuses. Hence, Verstappen slotted himself into second place on the earnings list.

The final ‘podium’ position could go to the returning F1 champion, Fernando Alonso, whose numbers could spring up to a decent $25 million.

How does the top 10 looks like?

Behind the trilogy of Hamilton, Verstappen, and Alonso, the other Red Bull driver, Sergio Perez shows up. The Mexican will earn around $18 million, including $13 million-worth bonuses.

Sebastian Vettel, who recently switched to Aston Martin, is the fifth highest-paid F1 driver of 2021. His pay could go up to $15 million. Then comes the Monegasque, Charles Leclerc, whose yearly earning could be around $12 million ahead of Valtteri Bottas’ $10 million.

Daniel Ricciardo remains in the top 10 despite his 2021 on-track struggles. The Australian might earn a total of $10 million without any bonuses. His McLaren teammate, Lando Norris slots into P9, with his pay potentially rising up to $9 million.

Considering how the Briton has performed this season, his 2022 salary will definitely go over the roof. Norris’ bromance-mate, Carlos Sainz, secures the final spot of the top 10, with an estimated earning of $8 million in 2021.

Overall, with performances being topsy-turvy for a few of the drivers in the top 10, will their yearly pay take a hit in 2022?

Watch Story: F1 Driver Salaries Revealed: How Much Do Lewis Hamilton & Co. Earn?