The former Formula 1 star is known for his luxurious lifestyle

Formula One has no shortage of drivers who've enjoyed lavish spending. Yet few can match the extravagance of former Ferrari and Jordan driver Eddie Irvine.

The Northern Irish star's considerable wealth often made him a controversial figure amongst fellow drivers and supporters. Despite the rigorous professionalism needed to thrive in F1, Irvine took a rather casual approach to his personal helicopter.

Astonishingly, he chose to sell the aircraft after losing track of it on two separate occasions. Now 60, Irvine spent nine years competing at the highest level of motorsport between 1993 and 2002, though it was his pre-F1 ventures that established his fortune, estimated at just under £100million.

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By the age of 27, Irvine had already built substantial wealth through shrewd property investments. He currently possesses an impressive 40 properties across the globe.

Discussing his taste for luxury and his problematic helicopter, Irvine previously told Mirror Sport: "I lost it twice. I parked it and then couldn't remember where.

"Once, I parked it in a friend's garden and then forgot where she lived. I just drove around until I spotted the rotor blades, which is easier than finding a car in an NCP car park."

Since retiring from F1 in 2002, Irvine's wealth was estimated at £160m, though it has since decreased to approximately £92m. Whilst he's proved skilled at flying helicopters and embracing life in the fast lane, he has revealed what fuels his lavish lifestyle.

"I love the parties, the boat, the plane, getting into nightclubs for free, getting tables at restaurants without having to queue, driving a Ferrari and getting the best-looking girls," he famously remarked about his extravagant way of life.

Irvine also established 'Eddie Irvine Sports', an indoor sporting venue providing snooker, pool, karting, paintballing and football. His shrewd business acumen means he can spend freely whenever he wishes.

Nevertheless, he emphasised that he will economise where possible. "I don't waste money," he said. "If I can do something on the cheap, then I will. But I'll go to a nightclub and if it's £250 for a bottle of vodka, I'll pay. I'm not going to sit there among my mates who can't afford it, moaning about the price."

According to GQ Australia in September 2025, Irvine was placed ninth amongst the wealthiest F1 drivers of all time. Despite winning four races and achieving 26 podium finishes, his remarkable fortune in the sport is impressive for a driver who notably never secured a championship.

Irvine is most fondly recalled for his four-year spell with Ferrari, during which he partnered with Michael Schumacher. His standout season came in 1999, when he claimed his four Grand Prix wins and came agonisingly close to securing the championship.