How Much do NASCAR Drivers Make? NASCAR Driver Salary

NASCAR drivers' salaries can vary widely based on several factors, including their level of experience, performance, popularity, sponsorship deals, and team affiliations. It's important to note that specific salary figures are not publicly disclosed, and the information available is based on estimates and reported figures.

At the highest level of NASCAR racing, in the Cup Series, top drivers can earn substantial incomes. In previous years, some of the most successful and well-known NASCAR drivers have reportedly earned annual salaries ranging from several million to tens of millions of dollars. However, it's crucial to remember that these figures represent a small percentage of the overall driver population, and many drivers at lower levels may earn significantly less.

It is estimated that the average NASCAR driver earns a salary of somewhere around $112,038. When a driver loses a race they still earn around $9,000, and if they win the race they will earn a whopping $47,500.

• Salary: $16,900,000+

Kyle Busch competes in the NASCAR Cup Series. and has achieved numerous victories and accolades throughout his career. There is no denying that he's one of the best NASCAR drivers ever. His resume is second to none, with two driver championships to his name and enough wins to rank him top 10 all-time. His most recent driver championship came in 2019, in which he won the season by a tight five point margin.

Regarding his earnings, while specific salary details are not publicly disclosed, it is estimated that Kyle Busch's annual earnings, including his racing salary, endorsements, and other income streams, have been in the range of tens of millions of dollars. He has secured multiple sponsorships and endorsement deals, which contribute significantly to his overall income.

• Estimated Purse: $23,500,000+

There is no official number of how much the total purse is for the NASCAR Cup Series, but we have a very good estimate due to the shortened 2020 season due to Covid-19. NASCAR announced that in 2020 they would have a purse of $23.6 million. That is a five million dollar increase from the reported number of $18 million in 2015. If one thing is apparent, it's that the purses continues to grow year over year for NASCAR. Ryan Blaney of Roger Penske racing team won this years Cup Series after accumulating 5,035 points across the season.

• Years Active: 1999- 2017
• Net Worth: $300,000,000+

Dale Earnhardt Jr. had a successful career as a NASCAR driver before his retirement. He earned money not only from race winnings but also from sponsorships, merchandise sales, and other business ventures. Today, Earnhardt Jr. regularly puts out a podcast on his youtube channel Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Dirty Mo Media.