Formula 1 World Champion, Max Verstappen and his fellow drivers are known for their speed on the track and their extravagant lifestyles off it.
With enormous salaries and lucrative sponsorships, they indulge in some of the most extravagant purchases imaginable, from private jets and luxury yachts to rare supercars and stunning mansions… and even cats.
According to Planet F1, their spending habits reflect a penchant for the finer things in life.
Leading the pack of opulence is Max Verstappen, who recently made headlines for acquiring a stunning Mangusta superyacht worth $15 million (R278 million). But he’s far from alone in showcasing a taste for the finer things in life.
Max Verstappen: Mangusta Superyacht
In January this year, Verstappen took ownership of a luxury 33 – metre Mangusta superyacht named Unleash the Lion. The vessel boasts five staterooms and ample lounging areas, perfect for his Monaco lifestyle.
But this is not Verstappen’s first extravagant purchase. At just 24 years old, he bought a Dassault Falcon-900EX jet from Richard Branson worth $15 million (R278-million)
His lifestyle also includes two Bengal cats, named Jimmy and Sassy, costing $1500-$3000 (R27,000 – R55,000). Verstappen’s third cat, Donatella, is a British Shorthair.
Lewis Hamilton: Bombardier Challenger 605
Hamilton’s private jet, the Bombardier Challenger 605 was a luxurious, high-performance business jet accommodating 12 passengers. Although he sold it due to environmental concerns, it remains one of the most notable purchases in F1 history. It cost him $29 million (R538-million).
In 2017, Hamilton purchased an extremely rare McLaren F1 for £15.6 million (R360-million). The car’s chassis number, 44, holds personal significance as it corresponds with his racing number.
Kimi Räikkönen: Swiss Villa ‘Butterfly’
After a successful career with Sauber, McLaren, Ferrari, Lotus, and Alfa Romeo, Kimi Räikkönen retired from Formula 1 at the end of 2021.
He enjoys a luxurious retirement, owning several properties in Finland, Dubai, and Thailand. His primary residence is a $20.5 million (R386-million) mansion named ‘Butterfly’ in Baar, near Zurich, where he lives with his wife Minttu and their children, Robin and Rianna.
Daniel Ricciardo: Aston Martin Valkyrie
Ricciardo’s passion for cars led him to buy the rare Aston Martin Valkyrie, valued at $3 million (R55-million). He purchased the exclusive vehicle in 2018 just before he left Red Bull. It was designed in conjunction with Red Bull and their chief engineer, Adrian Newey during their collaboration with the team.
Fernando Alonso: 60 Sunreef Power Eco Catamaran
Alonso’s enthusiasm for water sports is showcased in his purchase of a solar-powered yacht. The Aston Martin driver told Boat International that the yacht had enabled him to travel long distances “in total silence, with no fumes, no vibrations”. The yacht cost him approximately €4 million (R76- million).
Charles Leclerc: 48 Dolceriva yacht
Leclerc’s yacht, named ‘Monza’ after his 2019 success at the Italian Grand Prix, cost around €2 million (R38-million).
The 15-metre vessel features two cabins and has a top speed of 35 knots.
These purchases highlight the lavish lifestyles of F1 drivers, reflecting their success on and off the track.
*Note: The amounts are approximate in South African Rands, based on the current exchange rate.
WHAT WOULD YOU SPEND YOUR MONEY ON IF YOU WERE A BILLIONAIRE?
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