- Salary statistics
- Track racing driver
Track racing driver
44 100 - 44 900 kr / month
Pedagogiskt arbete
Salary progression Track racing driver
What does a race car driver do? – Job responsibilities and work environment
A race car driver is a professional athlete competing in motorsport on paved tracks, often in national or international series. Tasks revolve around driving race cars at high speeds, analyzing track conditions, collaborating with technicians and engineers to optimize vehicle performance, and participating in testing, training, and qualifying races. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, physically demanding tasks, and significant mental pressure, especially during competitions where quick decisions and full concentration are required. In addition to racing, sponsorship events, media appearances, and travel are common, making the workweek both intense and varied.
Salary development over time
The salary for race car drivers has shown a clear increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 SEK per month, rising to 41 300 SEK in 2023 and further to 44 900 SEK in 2024. This development represents approximately a 40% increase from 2022 to 2024. Factors driving the salary growth include a growing motorsport market, increased interest from sponsors and audiences, and a higher demand for skilled drivers as more racing series are established in Sweden. Education and specialization have also become more important, enabling the most qualified drivers to negotiate higher compensation.
Race Car Driver salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 44 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
- Hourly wage: 270 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Gender differences: Data not available
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as a race car driver, no formal higher education is required, but long-term practical training from an early age—often via karting or other entry series—is essential. Licenses from the Swedish Motorsport Federation are mandatory, and many drivers participate in specialized courses to develop technical and physical skills. Besides driving ability, understanding mechanics, data analysis, and racing strategy are also important.
- License: Competition license from the Swedish Motorsport Federation
- Courses: Specialized training in racing and safety
- Experience: Several years of racing experience in karting or junior series
- Prerequisites: Good physical condition, quick reactions, and technical interest
- Tips for choosing: Start early and participate in organized racing series
Many race car drivers develop close collaborations with engineers and mechanics, which means communication skills and team spirit are just as important as individual talent on the track.
Common benefits and compensations
Race car drivers often receive bonuses for racing success, sponsorship contracts, travel reimbursements, and equipment from teams or organizers. Other common benefits include insurance solutions, training support, and access to professional trainers and medical staff, especially at higher levels.
Competition and challenges
The competition in motorsport is fierce, with many young talents vying for limited spots in professional teams. Challenges include high costs for equipment and training, as well as the need to build a strong network to secure sponsors and contracts. The risk of injury is significant and requires both physical and mental resilience. Drivers are also expected to handle media pressure and perform at peak levels constantly, demanding self-discipline and concentration.
Tips for those who want to become a race car driver
To succeed as a race car driver, it’s important to combine determination with technical curiosity and good physical condition. Starting training early and participating in racing series helps build experience and showcase talent. Endurance is crucial, as the path to the top is often long and filled with setbacks. Being communicative and able to collaborate with the team increases chances of development. At the same time, the ability to handle pressure and make quick decisions during races is essential. Always being open to feedback and continuously working on your technique is key to success. Lastly, humility both on and off the track helps to build long-term relationships within the sport.
Key facts about Race Car Drivers
- Education level: No formal university degree required
- Work environment: Races on track, often under physically and mentally demanding conditions
- Work form: Fixed-term contracts and seasonal work
- Demand: 434 available jobs within the profession according to current statistics
- Special skills: Vehicle dynamics, strategy, and data analysis
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years in the profession, a race car driver can advance to leading roles within the team, such as lead driver, test driver, or development pilot. Other career options include transitioning to international racing series, working as an instructor or expert commentator, and taking on technical roles within the motorsport industry. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate continued stable demand, especially within specialized segments of motorsport, creating good opportunities for those investing in their careers and building their network early.
Frequently asked questions about Race Car Drivers
- What does a Race Car Driver earn?
- The average salary is 44 900 SEK per month according to current statistics. - Is higher education required to become a Race Car Driver?
- No, but extensive practical experience and a license are necessary. - What is the work environment like for a Race Car Driver?
- It is physically and mentally demanding, with lots of travel and competitions. - What benefits are common for Race Car Drivers?
- Bonuses, sponsorship contracts, travel reimbursements, and training support are typical. - What are the future prospects for Race Car Drivers?
- Demand is stable with 434 available jobs within the profession according to the latest data. - What qualities are important for success as a Race Car Driver?
- Endurance, communication skills, and quick decision-making are essential qualities.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Track racing driver has the SSYK code 3421, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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