Bookies make Mercedes 6/5 favourites to sign Verstappen for 2026

As Formula 1 heads to Silverstone for the 2025 British Grand Prix, speculation continues to swirl around the future of four-time World Champion Verstappen. With Mercedes and Wolff reportedly top of his shopping list

While local heroes McLaren’s Lando Norris, Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes’ George Russell and Haas rookie Oliver Bearman prepare to thrill the home crowd, Verstappen's potential exit from Red Bull remains the talk of the paddock.

Reports suggest Mercedes may be delaying Russell’s contract renewal to keep the door open for Verstappen, with betting markets now reflecting serious interest. According to Gambling.com, Mercedes are 6/5 favourites to secure Verstappen's services for 2026, as they look to benefit from the upcoming regulation changes and a potential power unit advantage.

Red Bull remain close behind at 5/4, with Verstappen’s long-standing loyalty possibly keeping him on board for at least another season. However, Aston Martin also emerged as strong contenders at 3/1, with the allure of reuniting with design legend Adrian Newey.

Newcomers Audi (5/1) and Cadillac (10/1) are considered long shots, though their 2026 entries bring fresh investment and long-term potential. McLaren are priced at 8/1, though a driver change there seems unlikely given Norris and Oscar Piastri's current form.

As for the British Grand Prix itself, Piastri leads the betting at 6/4, just ahead of Norris at 7/4. Russell is 12/1 for a home win, while Hamilton, now with Ferrari, sits at 16/1 following a challenging season.

Earlier this week we reported that Williams Hill got the ball rolling, offering betting odds on Verstappen's future beyond this season. With common sense suggesting that if Mercedes do not confirm Russell's extension at Silverstone (optimal place to do so), then it is almost sure that Wolff is holding on for Verstappen's decision.