Nico Hülkenberg’s 2025 Salary at Sauber
Nico Hülkenberg is back in a factory-backed seat, and the paycheck reflects that. For the 2025 Formula 1 season, Hülkenberg is earning $7 million with Sauber, ranking him 10th among all drivers on the current salary list. That’s a big jump from his previous contract at Haas, where he was reportedly earning $2 million per year between 2023 and 2024.
German outlet Bild reported his new salary at €5 million, which lines up with the current dollar figure. The raise comes at a time when Sauber is transitioning toward becoming Audi’s official F1 team, and with that transition comes increased financial backing. For Hülkenberg, this means not just a new car but a stronger contract too.
This new deal signals trust from the team in his experience and consistency. For a driver with over a decade of Formula 1 experience, that kind of reliability still holds serious value. Especially off the back of his first podium at Silverstone 2025.
And what was his bonus for that P3 finish at Silverstone? It’s hard to say. But when Nico came P8 for Racing Point in the 2020 Eifel GP, a one-off drive after getting a last-minute call to stand in for an ill Lance Stroll, Ralf Schumacher estimated he would have bagged somewhere between 300,000 – 500,000 Euros. That was the reward for earning Racing Point crucial points that boosted their constructors standing.
So his P3 at Silverstone bonus must have been big.
Hülkenberg’s Career Earnings and Net Worth
Nico Hülkenberg has been in and out of Formula 1 since 2010, and over the years, he’s quietly built up an impressive financial resume. His estimated net worth sits around $16 million, though his total career earnings are believed to fall between $35 and $40 million when you include salary and bonuses.
His most lucrative stretch came during his time with Renault from 2017 to 2019, where he reportedly earned $6 to $7 million per year. Before that, his salaries were smaller but steadily increasing:
2013 (Sauber): ~€1 million
2015 (Force India): ~€3.75 million
2017 (Renault): ~$3 million
2018–2019 (Renault): ~$5.5 million per year
2020–2022: Reserve roles and one-off races with payments ranging from €300,000 to €500,000
2023–2024 (Haas): ~$2 million per year
2025 (Sauber): $7 million
The stop-start nature of his F1 career never quite interrupted his earning potential. And now, with his return to a top-level team setup, he’s re-entered the upper tier of earners on the grid.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
Nico Hülkenberg has landed a diverse range of endorsements throughout his career. While he hasn’t chased the spotlight, his off-track presence has remained steady thanks to long-term partnerships with several brands. These include:
Heinemann
Hanair Jets
Netflix DE
Ravenol
Waldorf Hotels
Schuberth
Lego
Admin By Request
One of the standout deals is his long-running partnership with Gebr. Heinemann, a major global travel retail company. In March 2025, they confirmed they’d continue working with him. In 2024, they even gave him the tongue-in-cheek title of Chief Sunglasses Officer, part of a fun and highly visible campaign.
His deal with Danish cybersecurity firm Admin By Request is also noteworthy, as it’s a multi-year contract. These kinds of agreements bring in steady income and give him visibility outside the motorsport bubble.
While not every deal is disclosed publicly, his current sponsor mix shows a blend of lifestyle, tech, and travel partnerships—all aligned with his mature, cosmopolitan brand.
No Businesses, But Steady Revenue
Hülkenberg hasn’t launched public personal business ventures, but he’s built a career on staying consistent. Unlike some drivers who focus on merchandise or brand expansion, Hülkenberg keeps things more private.
Still, opportunities for income outside the cockpit remain. Appearances, brand partnerships, and personal licensing arrangements through his team and sponsors continue to generate steady revenue. He may not run a karting business or burger joint, but his financial profile holds its own through smart, low-key decisions.
Cars in His Collection
Nico Hülkenberg is known for being selective and thoughtful when it comes to cars. His collection features high-performance models and some rarities that showcase serious automotive taste.
Here’s a look at what’s been in his garage:
Porsche 911 GT3 RS – One of the most track-ready models Porsche makes.
Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR – A more extreme version of an already intense car.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class – Rugged luxury with serious off-road capabilities.
Pagani Huayra – Ultra-rare and custom-built, this is one of the priciest hypercars on the planet.
Ferrari 599 GTO – A front-engine V12 classic that blends elegance with performance.
Renault Megane RS – A nod to his years with the Renault F1 team.
Where He Lives
Hülkenberg lives in Monaco, like many drivers on the grid. The move offers tax advantages and a lifestyle that fits the F1 calendar. With views of the Mediterranean and easy access to Europe’s top circuits, Monaco has become a natural home base for drivers.
He’s known for enjoying the calm and comfort of the area rather than chasing the party scene. Living with his family, he balances racing with a quieter personal life—a contrast to the high-speed world he competes in.
