Verstappen and Hamilton rise in bookmakers' prediction for 2026 F1 season

Russell will enter the season as the favourite, while Mercedes are the bookmakers’ pick for the constructors’ title.

The Briton had the best odds at claiming his first title after the Barcelona shakedown, and that did not change after the two Bahrain pre-season tests either.

Russell's odds are currently 23/10 (3.30). In second place is four-time world champion Max Verstappen with 10/3 (4.33).

Ferrari drivers also have also risen in the rankings after Charles Leclerc set the quickest lap time at the Bahrain International Circuit last week. The Monegasque driver is now valued at 11/2 (6.50), while Lewis Hamilton is now the fourth favourite with an 8/1 (9.00). Defending world champion Lando Norris stands at 9/1 (10.00).

After difficulties in Bahrain, Fernando Alonso fell considerably. The Spaniard's odds are at 66/1 (67.00).

The German team is currently priced at 11/8 (2.38). Ferrari is in second place with a 3/1 (4.00), defending world champion McLaren is third with a 7/2 (4.50). Red Bull Racing completes the frontrunners at 8/1 (9.00).