Danica Sue Patrick (born March 25, 1982) is a retired American racing driver and model, known as the most successful woman in American open-wheel racing. Born in Beloit, Wisconsin, she began karting at ten and excelled in early championships. After racing in the UK, she returned to the US, joining IndyCar in 2005.
Her historic 2008 Indy Japan 300 win is the only IndyCar victory by a woman. Transitioning to NASCAR, she earned notable achievements, including a 2013 Daytona 500 pole. She retired after 2018, marking an iconic career.
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Danica Patrick Net Worth
Danica Patrick has a net worth of $80 million, earning over $10 million annually during her racing peak, split between salary, winnings, and endorsements. She became widely known for her extensive brand endorsements, which included Chevrolet, Coca-Cola, Nationwide Insurance, and Tissot.
Her most iconic partnership was with GoDaddy, which greatly elevated her public profile. Patrick’s endorsements often surpassed her racing fame, cementing her status as a marketing powerhouse and one of the most recognized figures in motorsport history.
Early Life
Danica Patrick was born on March 25, 1982, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to working-class parents Beverly Ann and Terry Joseph Patrick Jr. Raised in Roscoe, Illinois, she began karting at Sugar River Raceway with her father as crew chief and mother tracking stats.
Despite an early crash, she excelled, winning 10 regional titles and three World Karting Association Grand National Championships. At 16, she joined the Lyn St. James Foundation Driver Development Program, later racing in the UK with sponsorship from John Mecom Jr., refining her skills at elite driving schools.
Career
Danica Patrick moved to Milton Keynes, England, alone to pursue her racing career. Facing challenges as an American woman, she found support from Jackie Stewart and funding from Ford Motor Company. Over three years, she competed in Formula Vauxhall and Formula Ford, finishing ninth in the 1999 Formula Vauxhall Championship.
In 2000, she secured second place at the Formula Ford Festival at Brands Hatch, earning the Gorsline Scholarship Award. Funding issues forced her return to the United States in 2001 to continue her career.
Personal Life
Danica Patrick married physical therapist Paul Edward Hospenthal in 2005 after meeting him during treatment for a yoga-related hip injury. The couple divorced in 2012 after seven years.
She was later romantically linked to Ricky Stenhouse Jr., a fellow Sprint Cup Rookie of the Year, and Aaron Rodgers, an NFL quarterback, whom she dated from February 2018 to July 2020. In 2021, Patrick began a relationship with businessman Carter Comstock, but in 2022, she confirmed their split, ending the chapter amicably.
What is Danica doing now?
Danica Patrick, now retired from racing, has transitioned into entrepreneurship and business ownership. She launched a clothing line called Warrior by Danica Patrick, authored the book Pretty Intense, and owns Somnium, a vineyard located in Napa Valley, California. These ventures showcase her passion for wellness, style, and winemaking in her post-racing career.
Conclusion
Danica Patrick’s journey in the world of racing is a testament to her resilience, skill, and determination. Her success in a male-dominated sport, coupled with her savvy business sense and varied interests, has not only amassed her a significant net worth but also made her an inspiration to many.
FAQs
- How did Danica Patrick make her money?
- Through her racing career, endorsements, and various business ventures.
- What is Danica Patrick’s net worth?
- Approximately $80 million.
- Is Danica Patrick successful?
- Yes, both in her racing career and in her various business ventures.
- What qualities does Danica Patrick possess?
- Determination, resilience, and a pioneering spirit.
- What does Danica Patrick invest in?
- She has invested in ventures like her own wine brand and athleisure collection.
