Esteban Ocon earns $7m per year after signing a multi-year contract with Haas. He made his Formula One debut in 2016, joining the Manor Racing team midway through the season.
What did Otmar Szafnauer reveal?
Otmar Szafnauer, the former chief of Force India, revealed that he paid Esteban Ocon under $1m for his first year in F1. Szafnauer said on the High Performance Racing podcast, "I remember Esteban Ocon, we paid him nothing for the first year."
Esteban Ocon was just 19 when he competed in the final nine races of the 2016 season. He didn't score any points but finished every race he entered.
How does Esteban Ocon's salary compare?
Esteban Ocon's salary is significantly lower than that of top drivers like Max Verstappen, who earns $76m per year. However, it's still a handsome salary, especially compared to his first year in F1.
The current generation of drivers is among the highest-earning in the history of the sport. Carlos Sainz earns $13m per year, while Esteban Ocon earns around half that.
What's next for Esteban Ocon?
Esteban Ocon is currently struggling in the 2025 season, collecting just three points to his teammate Ollie Bearman's 18. However, he's determined to shut out the outside noise and keep himself on track.
Esteban Ocon said after the Austrian Grand Prix, "I feel confident about everything." He's out of contract at the end of the season, but he's not considering leaving Haas.
The British Grand Prix at Silverstone is next up for Esteban Ocon and Haas. Esteban Ocon will be looking to improve his performance and score more points.
Esteban Ocon has been out-qualified eight times to three by his teammate Ollie Bearman. However, he's still confident about his abilities and is working hard to improve.
Otmar Szafnauer's revelation about Esteban Ocon's first-year salary has sparked interest in the F1 community. Esteban Ocon's journey from earning under $1m to $7m per year is an inspiring one.
The popularity and global reach of Formula One have skyrocketed in recent years. The sport is attracting new fans and sponsors, and the drivers are earning more than ever before.
Esteban Ocon is one of the most talented drivers on the grid. He's had his ups and downs, but he's always come out stronger. His determination and hard work are an inspiration to his fans.
The 2025 season has been tough for Esteban Ocon, but he's not giving up. He's working hard to improve his performance and score more points. His fans are rooting for him, and they're confident that he'll bounce back soon.