Bookies: Verstappen 2/1 to join Mercedes amid 2026 uncertainty

Speculation has prompted betting companies to get in the act, offering odds that Verstappen will be lured away from Red Bull to Mercedes, as the German team stalls on offering George Russell a contract renewal if the Briton is not confirmed by them this weekend, during his home race at Silverstone.

Meanwhile, speculation over Verstappen’s Formula 1 future continues to ramp up, bookmakers William Hill released updated odds for the reigning world champion’s potential 2026 destination with Mercedes emerging as the most likely alternative to Red Bull.

The Dutch driver remains odds-on at 4/5 to stay with Red Bull, but increasing interest from rival teams has pushed Mercedes into second-favourite at 2/1. Aston Martin are next in the market at 4/1, with a possible sabbatical priced at 10/1.

Further down the list, American newcomer Cadillac is rated at 16/1, followed by Audi and Ferrari both at 20/1. McLaren (25/1), Williams (33/1), and Alpine (66/1) are considered long shots. The longest odds are given to Haas (80/1) and Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls (100/1).

William Hill spokesperson Lee Phelps said: “Mercedes are the hot second-favourite at 2/1 to secure the Dutchman’s services for 2026 following speculation over the driver’s future.”