Dan Wheldon at a Glance
- Net Worth: $15 Million
- Birthdate: June 22, 1978
- Birthplace: Emberton, England
- Nationality: British
- Profession: Race Car Driver
What is Dan Wheldon’s Net Worth?
Dan Wheldon has a net worth of $15 million. His fortune stems from a highly successful career in American open-wheel racing, where he became one of the highest-earning drivers of his era. As a two-time Indianapolis 500 winner and an IndyCar Series Champion, Wheldon secured multi-million dollar contracts and substantial race purses that formed the bulk of his wealth.
Beyond his salary as a driver, Wheldon capitalized on his marketability through lucrative endorsements and commercial partnerships. His estate, managed by his widow Susie Wheldon, continues to hold value, particularly as his sons Sebastian and Oliver Wheldon pursue professional racing careers under the guidance of Andretti Global. His financial legacy includes significant winnings from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he remains one of the top all-time earners in the event’s history.
Early Life
Daniel Clive Wheldon was born in Emberton, England. He grew up in a family passionate about motorsport; his father was an electrical engineer and amateur karter. Wheldon began karting at the age of four, quickly displaying natural talent. During his junior career in the UK, he developed a fierce rivalry with future Formula One World Champion Jenson Button.
Despite his success in British Formula Ford, the high costs of European racing forced Wheldon to look across the Atlantic. With limited funds but immense determination, he moved to the United States in 1999. This decision proved to be the defining moment of his financial and professional life, as the American open-wheel ladder system offered better prize money and career advancement opportunities for drivers without massive family backing.
Career
Wheldon’s professional ascent began in the U.S. F2000 National Championship, where he won the title in 1999. He quickly progressed through the Toyota Atlantic series and Indy Lights, eventually making his IndyCar debut in 2002 with Panther Racing. His performance caught the eye of Michael Andretti, leading to a seat at Andretti Green Racing (AGR) in 2003.
At AGR, Wheldon entered his prime earning years. He dominated the 2005 season, winning six races, including the Indianapolis 500, and securing the IndyCar Series Championship. This success led to a high-profile move to Chip Ganassi Racing in 2006. At Ganassi, Wheldon commanded a top-tier salary, partnering with Scott Dixon to form one of the most formidable duos in racing. He tied for the championship points lead in 2006 but lost the title on a tiebreaker, though he successfully added a 24 Hours of Daytona win to his resume.
After a stint with Panther Racing from 2009 to 2010, Wheldon found himself without a full-time ride for the 2011 season. In a testament to his skill, he secured a one-off drive for the Indianapolis 500 with the small Bryan Herta Autosport team. He won the race in stunning fashion after rookie J.R. Hildebrand crashed in the final corner. This victory revitalized his career and financial standing. Tragically, Wheldon passed away later that year following a multi-car accident at the season finale in Las Vegas, where he was competing for a special $5 million promotional bonus.
Real Estate
Wheldon resided in St. Petersburg, Florida, a city he embraced as his adopted hometown. He owned a waterfront property in the exclusive Snell Isle neighborhood. The home, which he shared with his family, was a reflection of his success, featuring luxury amenities and deep-water access for boating. Following his passing, the local community in St. Petersburg honored his connection to the city by dedicating a portion of the street course used for the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg as “Dan Wheldon Way.”
Personal Life
Wheldon married his longtime personal assistant, Susie Behm, in 2008. The couple had two sons, Sebastian and Oliver. Wheldon was known as a devoted father who balanced the high-pressure lifestyle of racing with family time.
His legacy continues directly through his children. Both Sebastian and Oliver have followed in their father’s footsteps, entering the world of competitive karting and junior formula racing. In a move that protects and promotes the family’s financial and professional future, both boys were signed as junior development drivers for Andretti Global, the same team where their father achieved his greatest successes. The 2024 documentary The Lionheart further chronicled Wheldon’s life and his family’s journey, keeping his name and brand relevant in the modern media landscape.
