Lewis Hamilton 'to overtake David Beckham as Britain's richest sportsman'

Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton is reportedly expected to pip David Beckham to the top spot as Britain's richest sportsman.

The 29-year-old, who is rumoured to pick up £100m in a new five-year contract with Mercedes, secured his second championship title by winning the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last Sunday.

According to the Daily Star, Hamilton, who currently pockets £25m a year, is expected to earn around £500m following his F1 triumph.

Wealth management expert Richard Simpson told the newspaper: "Lewis will earn £500m over his career very easily. He could go on to win several more titles and he will be naming his price on deals.

"When you dominate a sport for a long time then that is when you get the big brands coming in."

Hamilton, who has been in an on-off relationship with American singer Nicole Scherzinger for around six years, has commercial deals with bank Santander, sportswear giants Reebok and watch manufacturers Tag Heuer.