I am getting many questions regardint this topic so here is the answer for F4 salary related mails.
Formula 4 (F4) is often the starting point for young drivers aspiring to climb the motorsport ladder, but it is not a lucrative career stage. F4 drivers typically earn between $0 and $50,000 per year, and many do not receive a direct salary at all. Instead, drivers often rely on sponsorships, family funding, or personal savings to cover costs, which can range from $100,000 to $300,000 per season.
Why Is the Salary Low in F4?
Development Stage
F4 is a developmental series, where drivers focus on gaining experience, building their resumes, and attracting the attention of sponsors or professional teams. As such, teams prioritize providing opportunities over offering salaries.
Self-Funded Racing
Most F4 drivers pay their way into the sport. Teams require drivers to bring sponsorship deals or personal funds to cover operational expenses such as car maintenance, logistics, and track fees.
Sponsorship-Driven Ecosystem
Only a few talented drivers with strong sponsorship backing might receive partial or full coverage for their expenses, allowing them to pocket a small amount as “salary.”
Future Prospects for F4 Drivers
While the financial rewards at the F4 level are minimal, success in the series can open doors to more lucrative motorsport opportunities. Here’s the potential career trajectory:
F3 and F2 Progression
Drivers who excel in F4 can move up to Formula 3 (F3) and Formula 2 (F2), where earnings improve significantly. Salaries in F2 can range from $200,000 to over $500,000 annually, with top drivers receiving contracts from Formula 1 (F1) development programs.
Formula 1 Dreams
The ultimate goal for most F4 drivers is F1, where salaries range from $1 million to over $50 million for top-tier racers. However, only a small fraction of F4 talents make it to F1.
Alternative Racing Careers
Some F4 graduates transition into professional racing in endurance championships (e.g., Le Mans), IndyCar, or touring cars, which offer stable incomes and long-term opportunities.
For a deeper dive into how much professional drivers earn across various racing tiers, check out our article on How Much Do Pro Drivers Make in Salary?.
So, does it make sense to be and F4 driver?
Of course it make sense! The financial landscape of F4 may seem discouraging, but it represents a stepping stone toward potentially lucrative motorsport careers. Drivers who navigate this challenging phase, combining skill with the right sponsorships, can set themselves up for success in higher leagues.
More than that, who don’t want to get into a F4 car with 160HP and weigh 500-600 KG in a race? I am ready to do that even for free!