Kimi Antonelli: How Much Does He Make, Salary 2026, and Is He Good?

Kimi Antonelli has quickly become one of the most talked-about young drivers in Formula 1. From joining Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team at a very young age to winning races early in his career, Antonelli’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular.

But fans are asking three big questions:

• How much does Kimi Antonelli make?
• What is his 2026 salary?
• And most importantly—is he actually good?

This comprehensive guide answers all of these questions and more.

Who Is Kimi Antonelli?

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is an Italian Formula 1 driver born in 2006, widely considered one of the brightest young talents in motorsport. He rose through karting and junior categories at lightning speed before earning a coveted seat at Mercedes.

His rapid development and strong performances have drawn comparisons to elite drivers like Max Verstappen.

By 2026, Antonelli is no longer just a rookie—he is already competing for wins and championships.

Kimi Antonelli Salary 2026

Base Salary

As of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Kimi Antonelli earns:

• $2 million per year (base salary)

This places him among the lower-paid drivers on the grid—but there’s a good reason for that.

Antonelli is still on a rookie-style contract, which is common for young drivers entering F1.

Contract Details

Antonelli signed a multi-year deal with Mercedes, reportedly including:

• Annual salary: $2 million
• Performance bonuses
• Future extension options

Mercedes structured his deal strategically, allowing them to secure a top talent at a relatively low cost early in his career.

Bonuses and Total Earnings

While his base salary is modest, Antonelli’s total earnings can increase significantly through:

• Race wins
• Podium finishes
• Championship bonuses
• Sponsorship deals

His total potential earnings in 2026 could reach:

• Up to $10–13 million annually including bonuses and endorsements

This shows that his true financial value is much higher than his base pay.

Why Is Antonelli Paid Less Than Other Drivers?

Compared to stars like:

• Lewis Hamilton
• Lando Norris

Antonelli’s salary looks small.

However, there are key reasons:

1. Rookie Contract Structure

Teams typically offer lower salaries to new drivers.

2. Performance-Based Growth

His earnings are designed to increase based on results.

3. Long-Term Investment

Mercedes sees Antonelli as a future superstar and secured him early.

This is similar to how Max Verstappen started with a relatively modest salary before becoming one of the highest-paid athletes in F1.

How Much Does Kimi Antonelli Make Per Month?

Breaking down his $2 million salary:

• Per month: ~$166,000
• Per week: ~$38,000
• Per day: ~$5,400

And that’s just base salary—bonuses can significantly increase these figures.

Kimi Antonelli Net Worth (Estimated)

As of 2026, Antonelli’s estimated net worth is:

• Around $5 million+

This includes:

• Salary
• Bonuses
• Sponsorships
• Brand endorsements

With his rapid success, his net worth is expected to skyrocket in the coming years.

Is Kimi Antonelli Good?

Short Answer: Yes—He’s Exceptional

Kimi Antonelli is not just good—he is already proving to be elite.

Early Career Success

In just his early seasons, Antonelli has achieved:

• Formula 1 race wins
• Pole positions
• Championship contention

In fact, he recently became:

• One of the youngest race winners in F1 history
• The youngest championship leader after winning the Japanese Grand Prix

Recent 2026 Performance

Formula One World Championship 2026 has been a breakout season for Antonelli:

• Multiple pole positions
• Back-to-back wins
• Leading the championship standings

He even secured pole position and victory at Suzuka, showcasing composure under pressure.

Driving Style

Antonelli is known for:

• Smooth driving technique
• Excellent racecraft
• Calm decision-making
• Strong qualifying pace

Mercedes team leadership has praised his maturity—rare for a 19-year-old driver.

Comparison With Top Drivers

Antonelli is already being compared to:

• George Russell (his teammate)
• Max Verstappen

Despite his age, he is keeping pace with experienced drivers, which is a strong indicator of elite talent.

Why Mercedes Believes in Antonelli

Mercedes has a history of backing world-class drivers, including Lewis Hamilton. Their decision to sign Antonelli signals strong confidence in his abilities.

Reasons include:

1. Youth and Potential

He has many years ahead in the sport.

2. Immediate Results

Winning races early in his career is rare.

3. Marketability

Antonelli is becoming a global star, increasing his value beyond racing.

Future Salary Projections

Given his current trajectory, Antonelli’s salary could increase dramatically:

Short-Term (2027–2028)

• Expected: $5M–$10M annually

Long-Term

• Potential: $20M+ per year

If he continues winning races, he could become one of the highest-paid drivers in Formula 1.

Sponsorships and Endorsements

Being part of Mercedes gives Antonelli access to major sponsors such as:

• Automotive brands
• Luxury companies
• Global sports partnerships

These deals significantly boost his income beyond his base salary.

How Antonelli’s Salary Compares to Other F1 Drivers

Here’s how he stacks up:

• Top drivers: $20M–$60M
• Mid-tier drivers: $5M–$15M
• Antonelli: $2M base

Despite being lower on the salary list, his performance already exceeds his pay level, making him one of the best-value drivers in F1.

Why His Salary Will Increase Soon

Several factors suggest a major pay rise is coming:

• Consistent race wins
• Championship contention
• Growing global popularity

Mercedes will likely renegotiate his contract to reflect his true market value.

Conclusion

Kimi Antonelli’s 2026 salary may seem modest at $2 million, but it doesn’t tell the full story.

• His total earnings can exceed $10 million
• He is already winning races and leading championships
• His future salary potential is enormous

Most importantly, Antonelli is not just “good”—he is one of the most exciting young drivers in Formula 1 today.

If his current trajectory continues, he could soon join the ranks of the highest-paid and most successful drivers in the sport.

FAQs

1. What is Kimi Antonelli’s salary in 2026?

Kimi Antonelli earns approximately $2 million per year as his base salary with Mercedes.

2. How much does Kimi Antonelli make including bonuses?

Including bonuses and sponsorships, he could earn $10–13 million annually.

3. Why is Antonelli’s salary so low?

He is on a rookie contract, which typically starts lower but increases with performance.

4. Is Kimi Antonelli a good driver?

Yes, he is considered one of the best young talents in Formula 1, already winning races and competing for championships.

5. What team does Kimi Antonelli drive for?

He drives for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team.

6. What is Kimi Antonelli’s net worth?

His estimated net worth in 2026 is around $5 million or more.

7. Will Antonelli’s salary increase?

Yes, if he continues performing well, his salary could rise to $20 million+ in the future.