Former Red Bull mechanic reveals actual salaries in Formula 1: The numbers are shocking.

Issues with pit stops at the Italian Grand Prix

According to The Sun: The former Red Bull mechanic spoke about the difficult working hours and the modest salaries of the pit crew members in Formula 1 following the controversy that arose at the Italian Grand Prix.

At the recent Italian Grand Prix, there was a discussion about a slow pit stop for McLaren driver Lando Norris, which nearly cost him second place.

In the Monza race, Norris was assured that there would be 'no delays' during his stop, even though he was the team leader of McLaren.

However, the pit stop took 5.9 seconds, caused by a wheel nut problem, leading to Norris waiting four seconds longer than Oscar Piastri and losing second place to his Australian teammate.

This happened before McLaren management demanded that Piastri return Norris the position, referring to the 'principles' and values of motorsport.

Formula 1 fans were shocked by the slow pit stop and the ramifications of this incident, actively sharing their opinions on social media.

The salaries of Formula 1 mechanics

In response to a comment that Formula 1 mechanics only work 'three seconds' for '£350,000 per year', a former member of the Red Bull team decided to clarify.

“This explains why so few people interact in the pit lane here. Absurd thoughts like these. It’s demeaning.”

Callum Nicholas, who worked during Max Verstappen's four championships at Red Bull, noted:

“The average salary of a Formula 1 technician is about £60,000. An average working week lasts about 70 hours.”

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According to Nicholas, most mechanics fly economy class, and none of them earn more for working in the pit crew.

He also mentioned that his first salary in Formula 1 was only £42,000.

However, he acknowledged that £42,000, for the opportunity to travel around the world with a Formula 1 team, still seemed like a 'lottery win'.

In comparison, some of the highest-paid Formula 1 drivers earn over £27 million per year, while the lowest salary ranges between £700,000 and £2.3 million per year.

The situation with Norris at the Italian Grand Prix highlighted not only the pressure drivers face but also the importance of the coordinated work of the pit crew. As shown by the number 5.9 seconds, even a small delay can have enormous consequences. At the same time, the salaries of the mechanics illustrate the contrast between their hard work and the earnings of the drivers, emphasizing the disparity in spending in the world of Formula 1.