At 42 years old, Danica Patrick isn’t just a retired race car driver—she’s a brand, a businesswoman, and a symbol of what’s possible in male-dominated industries. With a net worth estimated at $80 million as of 2025, Patrick has turned a groundbreaking racing career into a diverse portfolio of income streams, from endorsements and wine to fitness wear and media projects.
But how did a girl from Wisconsin who started karting at 10 years old become one of the most recognized names in motorsports and beyond? Let’s take a closer look at how Danica Patrick built her fortune and legacy.
How Did Danica Patrick Get Started in Racing?
Born on March 25, 1982, in Beloit, Wisconsin, Danica was raised in Roscoe, Illinois, in a family already passionate about motorsports. Her father, Terry Patrick, introduced her to snowmobile and midget car racing, and by the age of 10, she was already competing in karting—and winning.
Her natural talent led to ten regional titles and a World Karting Association Grand National Championship. At just 16, she moved to England to pursue her racing dream in the Formula Ford and Formula Vauxhall series. It was a bold move—especially for a young American girl—but one that set the stage for her future success.
What Was Her Breakthrough Moment in Racing?
Danica’s major breakthrough came in 2005 when she joined Rahal-Letterman Racing, a team co-owned by Bobby Rahal and David Letterman. That year, she stunned the racing world by earning Rookie of the Year honors for both the Indianapolis 500 and the IndyCar Series season.
Then, in 2008, she made history. Danica became the first woman ever to win an IndyCar race, taking the checkered flag at the Indy Japan 300. The following year, she placed third at the Indianapolis 500, the highest finish ever by a woman in that race—a record that still stands.
How Did Danica Transition Into NASCAR?
In 2010, Patrick made a bold move to NASCAR, first entering the Nationwide Series (now the Xfinity Series) before joining the Sprint Cup Series. Though her results were mixed, she broke barriers once again.
In 2013, Danica became the first woman to win a NASCAR Sprint Cup pole position at the Daytona 500. Her best career finish came in 2011, when she placed fourth at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Her NASCAR years helped solidify her status as a marketing powerhouse, even if they didn’t result in another historic win.
How Much Has Danica Patrick Made from Endorsements?
Racing wins are great—but endorsements made Danica rich. At the height of her career, she was earning over $10 million annually in endorsement deals alone. Her most lucrative partnership was with GoDaddy, reportedly worth around $20 million per year at its peak.
Other major brands she’s worked with include:
- Chevrolet
- Coca-Cola
- Tissot
- Nationwide Insurance
Danica’s clean-cut, confident image and trailblazing story made her a marketing dream—and her portfolio reflects that.
What Businesses Does Danica Patrick Own?
Danica didn’t stop at being a brand ambassador—she built her own businesses too.
1. Somnium Wine
She owns a Napa Valley wine brand, named Somnium, which means “dream” in Latin. The winery is a reflection of her personal style and passion for excellence.
2. Warrior by Danica Patrick
In 2019, she launched Warrior, an activewear line that blends strength and femininity. The brand emphasizes empowerment and wellness—key themes in Danica’s post-racing life.
3. Podcasting
Her podcast, “Pretty Intense,” has hosted guests like Matthew McConaughey, Rachel Hollis, and entrepreneurs, exploring themes of success, self-growth, and well-being.
These ventures contribute significantly to her $80 million net worth—and showcase her entrepreneurial instincts.
Has Danica Patrick Worked in Entertainment?
Yes, Danica has dipped her toes in Hollywood and pop culture. She appeared in a 2010 episode of “CSI: NY” and in music videos for Maroon 5 and Jay-Z. She also published an autobiography in 2006, titled “Danica: Crossing the Line”, giving fans a candid look into her rise and the challenges she faced.
Her media appearances have kept her relevant long after her last race—and opened up new opportunities for brand growth.
What About Her Personal Life?
Danica’s personal life has often made headlines. She was married to Paul Edward Hospenthal, a physical therapist, from 2005 to 2013. She later dated NASCAR driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
In 2021, she began a relationship with entrepreneur Carter Comstock, though the pair split in 2022. Despite the public attention, Danica has remained private and focused on her businesses and personal wellness.
What Makes Danica Patrick’s Legacy So Unique?
Danica isn’t just a woman who raced—she’s a woman who changed the game. From firsts on the track to big wins in business, she’s turned barriers into stepping stones.
She’s been recognized widely for her influence, including being named one of the 100 highest-paid celebrities by Forbes and among the 50 most powerful people in sports by Bloomberg Businessweek in 2008.