W Series winner will earn more than F1 drivers

The W Series has confirmed that its inaugural winner in 2019 will receive $500,000 in prize money - a figure that eclipses several Formula 1 drivers' estimated salaries.

The likes of Alexander Albon, George Russell, Antonio Giovinazzi, Lando Norris and Daniil Kvyat are all estimated to be on salaries lower than that figure, although Norris is set for a pay rise after securing a 2020 deal already with McLaren.

A W Series release confirmed the breakdown for 2019 prize money, with the second-place and third-place drivers to receive $250K and $125K respectively.

All drivers will receive a portion of the $1.5million prize pot. The last three drivers in the standings and reserves will each take home $7.5K.

Jamie Chadwick leads the standings after four of six rounds, with a 10-point lead over Beitske Visser.

Chadwick has already signed a development deal with F1 side Williams and made a first official outing with the team at the British GP last weekend. Visser was previously a member of Red Bull's programme and is signed to BMW as a works driver.

W Series also confirmed elements of the selection process for 2020, with this year's top 12 drivers in the standings automatically qualifying to the new campaign.

Another crucial development for next year will see FIA Superlicence points awarded.

The statement explained: "The FIA is currently determining the number of points that will be awarded, and the number of drivers who will receive them."

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