Stewart: 'Only five F1 drivers earn more than me'

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The consummate professional and the first to make big bucks in Formula 1, Sir Jackie Stewart says that he's still generating a healthy income at 77-years-young.

The recipient of various endorsements deals with brands such as Rolex and Heineken, the three-time world champion is keeping the momentum going, and claims that only a handful of drivers out-earn him today.

"I've always tried to give back to Formula 1 what it has brought me: success, fame and money," Stewart said in an interview with Swiss media Blick.

"With the exception of Mercedes and Ferrari's drivers, I make more money than any other active Formula 1 driver.

2016 F1 driver salaries

When asked if he also believed he made more than Fernando Alonso, who enjoys a reputed eight-figure annual contract with McLaren, Stewart was caught off guard.

"I forgot about him! Okay, let's say only those five earn more, which means I can still count on the fingers of one hand those who earn more than me!"

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.