“It’s still a bit vague, I don’t think anyone knows where exactly this is going,” said Verstappen before the first practice runs for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix today.
“I think it’s completely wrong. Formula 1 is becoming more and more popular, everyone earns more and more money as a result, including the teams and F1 management,” Verstappen referred to the commercial owner of the racing class.
“So why should the drivers be limited, the people who take care of the show and risk their lives? Because that’s what we do. So for me this is completely wrong,” said Verstappen.
The 24-year-old Dutchman extended his contract with Red Bull at the beginning of this year until 2028. Verstappen reportedly earns between 40 and 50 million euros per year. This would make him the highest-earning Dutch athlete of all time.
Verstappen is not only concerned about his own income, but also thinks that young drivers at the beginning of their career will be less able to sponsor and attract investors if there is a salary cap in Formula 1.
“The sponsors receive a percentage of the income. But with a limit they never get their investment back. So that also affects the junior categories. And I don’t think you should want that.”
It is unclear how high the possible salary limit should be. According to the usually well-informed website Autosport.com, there is talk of an amount of 30 million dollars (converted 28 million euros) per team. Both drivers must then be paid with this.
