Keir Starmer resigned as Prime Minister on Monday morning, announcing the decision outside Downing Street and describing becoming PM as the “proudest moment of my life.”
The news sent the betting markets into immediate motion, and Andy Burnham is now the red-hot 1/50 favourite to succeed him in Downing Street.
The Labour leadership contest is expected to get underway next month, with the winner automatically becoming Prime Minister given that Labour remains the largest party in parliament.
Next Prime Minister Odds
Candidate
Odds
Andy Burnham
1/50
Angela Rayner
25/1
Wes Streeting
25/1
Ed Miliband
25/1
Alistair Carns
25/1
Bar
33/1
Why Burnham Is Such a Short Price
Burnham has been linked with the top job in Labour politics for some time.
Media speculation around his ambitions has been building for months, and his high profile as Mayor of Greater Manchester, combined with his strong personal poll ratings, has made him the clear frontrunner in the minds of both the bookmakers and the wider political commentariat.
William Hill spokesperson Lee Phelps said: “Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s resignation has paved the way for Andy Burnham to take his place on Downing Street, and we now expect Labour (6/4) to win more seats than Reform UK (7/4) at the next general election as a result.”
At 1/50, backing Burnham to become the next Prime Minister offers almost no financial return, so the smarter play is to look at the general election market and the individual candidates at longer prices if you think there is any chance of a surprise during the leadership contest.
What Does This Mean for the Next General Election?
Starmer’s resignation has had an immediate impact on the general election market. William Hill now price Labour at 6/4 to win more seats than Reform UK at the next election, with Reform 7/4.
That is a significant shift, suggesting the bookmakers believe Burnham in charge gives Labour a much better chance of holding off the Reform challenge.
The most likely outcome at the next general election remains a hung parliament, priced at 4/7.
Labour winning a majority and Reform winning a majority are both 4/1, reflecting just how unpredictable the political landscape is even with Burnham expected to take charge.
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover next Prime Minister odds, general election markets, by-election betting, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
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Group C is one of the most intriguing sections of the 2026 World Cup.
Brazil are the heavy favourites and will be desperate to end a 24-year wait for a sixth World Cup triumph, but Morocco are a genuine threat to their dominance of the group and Scotland have a very real chance of making history by reaching the knockout rounds for the first time ever.
Haiti complete the group, making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, and their presence gives the other three sides a winnable game that could prove critical when it comes to goal difference and the race for third-place qualification.
Team
FIFA Ranking
To Win Group
To Qualify
Brazil
5th
4/7
1/20
Morocco
14th
3/1
4/7
Scotland
39th
9/1
7/4
Haiti
83rd
40/1
9/1
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13 June, 11pm: Brazil vs Morocco, MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
14 June, 2am: Haiti vs Scotland, Gillette Stadium, Boston
19 June, 11pm: Scotland vs Morocco, MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
20 June, 1:30am: Brazil vs Haiti, SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
24 June, 11pm: Morocco vs Haiti, MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
24 June, 11pm: Scotland vs Brazil, Gillette Stadium, Boston
The opening night fixture between Brazil and Morocco on 13 June is one of the standout games of the entire group stage. A Brazil win sets the group up as expected, but a Morocco victory or even a draw would throw the whole section wide open.
Scotland’s opening game against Haiti on 14 June is the one Steve Clarke’s side simply must win. Three points there would give Scotland a platform to build from ahead of the much harder tests against Morocco and Brazil to come.
The final matchday is fascinating. Scotland against Brazil in Boston while Morocco face Haiti simultaneously could produce a dramatic finish if Scotland have already qualified and Brazil need a win to secure top spot.
Brazil: Desperate to End a 24-Year Wait
Brazil have not won the World Cup since 2002, and the pressure on Carlo Ancelotti’s side to end that drought is enormous. The Italian became Brazil’s first ever foreign head coach, a decision that caused considerable debate in the country, and he has made some bold squad selections that have divided opinion further.
Including a 34-year-old Neymar ahead of younger talent raised eyebrows, though Neymar is carrying a calf injury and his availability for the opening stages of the tournament remains in doubt. The real attacking threat comes from Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Rodrygo, who give Brazil a front line of genuine world-class quality when they are all fit and firing.
In defence, Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos provide a solid spine, and Ancelotti has focused heavily on tightening up the back line after Brazil’s inconsistent qualifying campaign in CONMEBOL, where they finished fifth of the six automatic qualifiers and suffered six defeats in 18 games.
Brazil are 4/7 to win the group, which is shorter than their recent form perhaps warrants. They dropped points in each of their last four World Cup finals groups, and Morocco on the opening night will not be an easy opponent. At 4/7 there is limited value, and the smarter play is to look at the group winner market after the opening round of fixtures.
Morocco: The Biggest Threat to Brazil
Morocco reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, becoming the first African nation to do so in the tournament’s history. That run was built on extraordinary defensive resilience and the ability to grind out results in high-pressure knockout games, and Walid Regragui has kept much of that squad together heading into 2026.
Achraf Hakimi is the standout name in their squad and one of the best full-backs in the world, capable of driving forward and creating danger from deep. In front of him, the Moroccan midfield is disciplined and hard to play through, and they will not give Brazil or Scotland easy passages through the middle of the pitch.
Their opening game against Brazil is the one the neutrals will want to see. Morocco proved in Qatar that they are not afraid of big occasions, and if they can take something from that game, their chances of qualifying from the group improve significantly. They are 3/1 to win the group and 4/7 to qualify, and the qualification price looks fair given their squad quality and recent tournament pedigree.
Scotland: Can They Finally Make History?
Scotland are back at a World Cup for the first time since France 1998, and they have never made it out of the group stage in any of their eight previous tournament appearances. The 7/4 to qualify looks genuinely appealing, because Scotland are in a position where winning the Haiti game and picking up a point against Morocco could be enough to go through as a third-placed side.
Steve Clarke has built one of the most organised and difficult-to-beat sides in Scotland’s history. They topped their UEFA qualifying group with eight wins from eight matches, which is a remarkable record, and they have the defensive structure to keep things tight against better opposition.
Andy Robertson provides quality and experience at left-back, Scott McTominay and John McGinn give them drive and goals from midfield, and the squad has more technical quality than previous Scotland generations. The challenge is converting that into results when the stakes are highest, which has historically been Scotland’s stumbling block.
The Haiti game on 14 June is non-negotiable. Scotland need to win it, and win it well enough to give themselves a positive goal difference heading into the later fixtures. After that, a point against Morocco on 19 June would put them in a very strong position for third-place qualification.
Haiti are making their first World Cup appearance since 1974 and only their second in history, which is a remarkable achievement given the political and social instability the country has faced over the past decade.
They are 40/1 to win the group and realistically are not expected to progress, but they will not simply roll over. Haiti qualified through the Concacaf region and have shown they can be organised and competitive. Getting a result against any of Brazil, Morocco or Scotland would be a major achievement, but they will give everything they have across all three games.
Key Players to Watch
Vinicius Junior is the player everyone in Group C will be trying to stop. The Real Madrid forward is electric at his best, capable of changing a game in an instant with his pace and directness. If Brazil get him into space in behind defences, the goals will come.
Achraf Hakimi for Morocco is another one to watch closely. He is as effective going forward as he is defensively, and his threat from right-back gives Morocco an extra dimension that opposition teams struggle to account for across a full game.
For Scotland, Scott McTominay is the player the Tartan Army will be counting on for big moments. He scored the bicycle kick goal against Denmark that secured Scotland’s place at this tournament, and he has the ability to produce something special when it matters most.
Group C Betting Tips
Scotland to qualify at 7/4 is the standout bet in this group. The expanded format means three points and a reasonable goal difference could be enough, and Scotland are in a strong position to get that from the Haiti game alone. At 7/4 there is genuine value given their recent qualifying form and the favourable draw they have received.
Morocco to win the group at 3/1 is worth a small interest for those who think they can repeat their Qatar heroics. Their opening game against Brazil is a 50/50 in many analysts’ eyes, and a Morocco win there would make them strong favourites to top the section.
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, World Cup betting, Cheltenham Festival markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
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Group H is shaping up to be one of the more interesting sections of the 2026 World Cup.
Spain are the dominant favourites and few would bet against them topping the group, but Uruguay bring real quality and tournament experience that makes the race for second spot genuinely competitive.
Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde complete the section, with both sides capable of making life difficult for the bigger nations on their day.
With the expanded 48-team format giving the best third-placed sides a route through to the round of 32, there is more to play for across all three matchdays than in previous tournaments.
Team
FIFA Ranking
To Win Group
To Qualify
Spain
2nd
1/5
1/100
Uruguay
17th
9/2
4/7
Saudi Arabia
61st
14/1
7/2
Cape Verde
69th
25/1
5/1
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The four teams in Group H are Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. Here is the full fixture schedule:
15 June, 5pm: Spain vs Cape Verde, Atlanta Stadium
15 June, 11pm: Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay, Miami Stadium
21 June, 5pm: Spain vs Saudi Arabia, Atlanta Stadium
21 June, 11pm: Uruguay vs Cape Verde, Miami Stadium
27 June, 1am: Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia, Houston Stadium
27 June, 1am: Uruguay vs Spain, Guadalajara Stadium
The opening matchday on 15 June is significant. Saudi Arabia against Uruguay in Miami is the game that will likely define the race for second place, while Spain against Cape Verde in Atlanta should give Luis de la Fuente’s side a comfortable start to proceedings.
How both those games go will shape the dynamic of the group heading into matchday two. A Saudi win over Uruguay would throw the second qualification spot wide open and make matchday three genuinely unpredictable.
The final matchday, with Spain facing Uruguay simultaneously as Cape Verde take on Saudi Arabia, sets up a potentially dramatic conclusion. If Spain have already secured top spot, Barcelona and Real Madrid players may be rested, which could open the door for Uruguay to finish first.
That scenario could have implications for the knockout draw, so it is worth keeping an eye on how the group develops going into the last round of fixtures.
Spain: Group H Favourites
Spain are clear favourites to win the group and progress deep into the tournament. They went through UEFA qualification unbeaten, are the reigning European champions, and sit second in FIFA’s world rankings.
Luis de la Fuente has built a team that blends technical quality with genuine tactical flexibility, and they have the squad depth to cope with the demands of a 48-team tournament that requires more matches than ever before.
Their style of play has evolved under de la Fuente. Spain are not quite the possession-obsessed side of the Pep Guardiola era, but they still control games through movement and quick passing, and they can hurt teams on the counter when they get the chance.
Pedri pulls the strings in midfield, Lamine Yamal provides pace and directness on the right, and Mikel Oyarzabal leads the line with the kind of intelligent movement that is difficult to defend against across a full game.
Spain are 1/5 to win the group, which reflects the quality gap between them and the rest of Group H. Backing them to win the group offers minimal returns, so the better play is to use them as part of a combination bet or focus on their individual match markets throughout the group stage.
Uruguay: The Team to Watch for Value
Uruguay are the second favourites to qualify from the group at 4/7, and that looks like the right call. They are a compact, well-organised side who have shown over many years that they can grind out results against stronger teams on paper.
Their opening game against Saudi Arabia on 15 June is the key fixture. A win there would put them in a strong position to secure second place without needing to worry too much about the Spain game on the final matchday.
This Uruguay squad is going through a generational shift, with Federico Valverde now the central figure around whom the team is built. He is one of the best midfielders in the world when he is on form, offering a combination of energy, passing range and goals from deep positions that gives Uruguay a genuine threat going forward as well as defensive solidity.
Darwin Nunez leads the attack and, while he has divided opinion at Liverpool, he has always shown up for Uruguay at international level. His physicality and directness give Uruguay something different in the final third when games are tight.
One factor worth considering is Uruguay’s set-piece threat. At the 2024 Copa America they scored the most goals from dead balls of any team in the competition, and they had the highest expected goals and shots from set-pieces throughout the tournament. Against organised lower-ranked sides, that can be the difference between a win and a draw.
Saudi Arabia: Outsiders with Upset Potential
Saudi Arabia come into this tournament having sacked manager Herve Renard in mid-April, just weeks before the World Cup began. It is not the ideal preparation, and the disruption in the dugout has unsettled the squad at a time when stability would have been welcomed.
They go into the tournament at 14/1 to win the group and 7/2 to qualify, which puts them as clear outsiders behind Uruguay. That said, Saudi Arabia have form when it comes to causing upsets at World Cups.
They beat Argentina in 2022 in one of the great shock results in recent tournament history, doing so with an organised, disciplined performance that showed they are capable of executing a game plan against elite opposition. Whether they can sustain that level across three group games against Spain and Uruguay is a different question entirely.
At 7/2 to qualify there is some value for those who believe they can sneak through via the third-place route. Their opening match against Uruguay on 15 June is the one that matters most. Lose that, and qualification becomes very difficult. Win it, and suddenly the group opens up considerably.
Cape Verde: World Cup Debutants
Cape Verde are making their World Cup debut, which is a remarkable achievement for a nation of just over 500,000 people. They qualified by topping their CAF group ahead of Cameroon, conceding just three goals across 10 qualifying matches, which tells you a lot about how they approach the game.
They are well organised, hard to break down, and not a side that will simply roll over against anyone. Their squad draws heavily from the Portuguese and Spanish leagues, with Logan Costa at Villarreal and Steven Moreira at Columbus Crew among the more recognisable names.
They are not without quality, and on a good day they are capable of making things difficult for Saudi Arabia in particular. Whether they can take points off Spain or Uruguay is a much bigger ask, but they will give a good account of themselves throughout the group stage.
Cape Verde are 25/1 to win the group and 5/1 to qualify. The value bet for those wanting to back them is in the Cape Verde to finish as the top African team in the tournament market, where they are available at 28/1 with bet365.
Key Players to Watch
Lamine Yamal is the name everyone will be watching in Spain’s attack. The Barcelona teenager is already one of the most exciting players in world football, and his combination with Pedri and Oyarzabal gives Spain real creativity across the forward line.
He is one to watch in the Golden Boot market too, with Spain’s creative midfield likely to give him plenty of chances to add to his tally across the group stage.
For Uruguay, Valverde is the player opposition teams will be most worried about. He covers ground quickly, wins the ball back, and has the ability to score from range when the opportunity presents itself. If Uruguay are going to go deep in this tournament, his form will be central to that.
For Saudi Arabia, much will depend on who steps up in the absence of a settled managerial structure. They have technical quality in midfield and will look to use the ball well when they have it, but without a clear gameplan from the dugout they can look disjointed.
Watch for Salem Al-Dawsari, who has been one of the more consistent Saudi performers at international level in recent years and tends to be at his best on the biggest occasions.
Group H Betting Tips
Spain to win the group is too short to be of interest at 1/5. The better play is to look at Uruguay to qualify at 4/7 as part of a combination, or to back them to win the group at 9/2 if you think they can edge out Spain on the final matchday.
The second-place race is where the real interest lies, and Uruguay are the most logical pick based on squad quality and tactical organisation. Their set-piece threat alone could be worth a couple of goals across the group stage.
Cape Verde at 28/1 with bet365 to finish as the top African team in the tournament is worth a small interest. Escaping the group will be tough, but if they beat Saudi Arabia and pick up a point elsewhere, they have a genuine chance of progressing as one of the better third-placed sides.
Group H to be the highest-scoring group in the tournament is another market worth considering at 7/1.
Spain’s attacking quality, Uruguay’s directness and set-piece threat, and the likelihood of Saudi Arabia needing to chase games all point towards a group that produces plenty of goals across the six fixtures.
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, World Cup betting, Cheltenham Festival markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
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The Golden Boot is one of the most popular betting markets at every World Cup, and 2026 is no different.
With 48 teams and an extra knockout round compared to previous tournaments, there are more goals to be scored and more opportunities for a striker to rack up a big tally.
Here is a full rundown of the top scorer odds, the key contenders, and where the value lies.
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Kylian Mbappe heads the market at 11/2, and it is not hard to see why.
Despite a turbulent season at Real Madrid off the pitch, he still managed 40 goals across La Liga and the Champions League, and France have the attacking depth around him to create chances throughout the tournament. Les Bleus are expected to go deep, which is exactly what a Golden Boot contender needs.
Harry Kane is right behind at 13/2, and there is a strong case that he represents the better value of the two.
He scored 50 goals across the Bundesliga and Champions League last season, which is a genuinely remarkable return, and he will be leading the line for an England side that go into the tournament at 6/1 to win the whole thing.
A favourable group draw gives Kane every chance of hitting the ground running in the early stages.
Lionel Messi at 12/1 is more of a sentimental pick than a realistic one at this stage.
He has scored just four international goals since the start of last year, and the step up from MLS to facing World Cup-level defences every three or four days is a significant one, even for the greatest player of his generation.
Erling Haaland at 12/1 is interesting but carries risk.
Norway are dark horses to go on a deep run, and if they do, Haaland has the ability to rack up goals quickly. The concern is that an early exit could leave him stranded with a modest tally, which is a real possibility given the unpredictability of knockout football at this format.
Each Way for the Golden Boot
Mikel Oyarzabal at 12/1 looks underpriced relative to the other names at that price. He only scored 18 goals across all competitions last season, but he has 24 at international level and will be leading the attack for a Spain side that are one of the most technically gifted teams in the tournament.
Spain create chances for their centre-forward consistently, and Oyarzabal is very good at being in the right place at the right time.
Lautaro Martinez at 25/1 is the standout each-way pick in the market. He has been one of Europe’s most reliable strikers over the past several years, with 36 goals in 75 caps for Argentina, and he will be playing alongside Messi, who still reads the game as well as anyone.
Argentina are defending champions and likely to face weaker opponents in the group stage, giving Martinez the chance to get off to a fast start.
Michael Olise at 40/1 is a genuine longshot worth considering. He scored 20 goals for Bayern Munich last season and ranks in the 80th percentile for open-play expected goals among all forwards, taking close to four shots per match.
France’s depth of talent means he might not start every game, but if he gets a run in the side he has the quality to make a big impact.
How the 48-Team Format Changes the Market
The expanded tournament means teams that go all the way will play up to seven matches rather than six.
That additional game should, in theory, push the winning total higher, though it is worth noting that 10 of the last 12 Golden Boots have been won with six goals or fewer. Mbappe’s eight in 2022 and Ronaldo’s eight in 2002 are the only exceptions to that pattern in recent history.
The round of 32 also creates a potentially significant opportunity. If a top striker draws a weak third-place qualifier, that could be a chance to score two or three in a single match, which can be the difference between winning the award and finishing just short.
The group stage draw will be one of the first things to assess once the tournament gets underway.
Golden Boot Betting Tips
Back penalty takers — spot-kicks add to a striker’s tally without requiring open-play goals, and the best forwards often take them. Kane and Mbappe both do.
Check the group draw — a favourable matchup in the group stage creates the chance for a big haul early on, which sets up a striker well for the knockout rounds.
Consider each-way bets — the Golden Boot can go right down to the wire, and an each-way bet at a generous price covers the near-misses. Martinez and Olise both fit this approach.
Think about team depth — strikers from sides with strong supporting casts get more chances. Mbappe, Kane and Martinez all benefit from exceptional creators around them.
Watch for injuries early on — a knock in the group stage does not necessarily end a Golden Boot challenge. Martinez missed part of the 2022 tournament and still finished among the top scorers.
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, World Cup betting, Cheltenham Festival markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
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Our Golden Boot Pick
Lautaro Martinez at 25/1 each-way is the pick of the market.
He is a proven international scorer, he plays in an Argentina side that should accumulate goals in the group stage, and he has Messi feeding him through balls that most strikers can only dream of.
At 25/1, the price reflects his status as a supporting act rather than the main event, but at a World Cup that can work in a striker’s favour.
Kane at 13/2 is the most straightforward bet if you want to back a realistic favourite, and England’s favourable group means he should be among the goals from the first week. At those odds, there is a decent return if he hits form early and England go on a run.
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England head into the 2026 World Cup with genuine expectations of going deep in the tournament, and the bookmakers agree. Thomas Tuchel’s side are priced at 6/1 to win the whole thing, making them one of the shorter-priced teams in the outright market. With a favourable group and a squad built around Harry Kane, there is real reason for optimism among Three Lions fans this summer.
England’s 2026 World Cup Group and Fixtures
England have been drawn in Group L, which looks very manageable on paper. Their three opponents are Croatia, Ghana and Panama, and all three games take place at different venues across the United States.
Match 1: England vs Croatia — 17 June 2026, AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Match 2: England vs Ghana — 23 June 2026, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
Match 3: England vs Panama — 27 June 2026, MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
Croatia are the only team in that group with a proven pedigree at this level, having reached the World Cup final in 2018 and the semi-finals in 2022. Ghana and Panama are both beatable on current form, and England will be expected to qualify from this group with room to spare. The real test comes in the knockout rounds.
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Tuchel took charge of England on 1 January 2025 and has had a full qualifying campaign to bed his ideas in. England topped Group K in UEFA qualification, winning all eight of their matches, which is an impressive record by any measure and suggests the squad has bought into what the German coach is asking of them.
Tuchel is a Champions League winner with Chelsea and a manager with a track record of getting the best out of talented squads in high-pressure situations. Whether that translates to international management is the big question, but the signs so far have been positive.
Key Players to Watch
Harry Kane is the name the whole tournament hinges on for England. The Bayern Munich striker and England captain is the country’s all-time leading scorer, and at 32 he is heading into what is likely to be his last realistic chance of winning a major tournament. When Kane is fit and firing, England are a different team, and the quality he provides as a focal point for the attack is irreplaceable.
The battle for places in attacking midfield has been one of the more interesting selection debates under Tuchel, with several players competing for the same positions. How he balances creativity with defensive solidity in those areas will go a long way to determining how far England go in the knockout stages.
England’s World Cup Betting Odds
England are priced at 6/1 to win the 2026 World Cup, making them one of the shorter-priced nations in the tournament. Only Brazil, France and a couple of others are expected to challenge ahead of them in the outright market. At 6/1, there is still a solid return on offer if you believe Tuchel’s side can go all the way.
Reaching the quarter-finals is the minimum expectation from most analysts, and England are expected to come through Group L comfortably. The semi-finals feel like a realistic ceiling based on the draw, though a lot will depend on which side of the bracket opens up in the knockout rounds.
It is also worth keeping an eye on the individual markets. Kane’s goalscoring record means he is always worth a look in the top scorer market, and there could be value in some of the England player specials as the tournament gets underway.
For more World Cup betting, see our Scotland 2026 World Cup guide, covering the Tartan Army’s first appearance at the tournament since 1998.
About OddsBoom
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, World Cup betting, Cheltenham Festival markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
Follow us on X (Twitter), TikTok and LinkedIn for the latest odds updates. Committed to responsible gambling. Please visit GambleAware if you need support. 18+ only.
Can England Win the World Cup in 2026?
England have not won the World Cup since 1966, and the semi-finals in 1990 and 2018 remain the closest they have come since. This squad, under a manager with Tuchel’s winning pedigree, feels like one of the more credible England sides to have gone into a major tournament in recent memory.
The group stage should be navigated without too much drama. The knockout rounds are where England’s tournament will be decided, and if the draw opens up favourably from the last 16 onwards, there is no reason to rule out a run to the final. At 6/1, they remain a serious consideration in the outright market.
England’s opening game against Croatia on 17 June kicks things off. The early signs from Tuchel’s tenure suggest this squad is in good shape, and the expectation among fans and bookmakers alike is that they will be one of the last teams standing come July.
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The Makerfield by-election market is moving fast, and the direction of travel is clear. Labour have firmed up significantly in recent days and are now the 1/3 favourites to take the Greater Manchester seat, while Reform UK, who were as short as 13/8 just last weekend, have drifted out to 5/2 as momentum builds behind the Labour camp.
Makerfield By-Election Odds
William Hill have the current market priced as follows:
Labour – 1/3
Reform UK – 5/2
Restore Britain – 8/1
BAR – 250/1
Polling day for the Makerfield by-election is Thursday 18 June 2026. The contest has quickly developed into one of the more closely watched political betting markets of the year.
Why Labour Odds Are Shortening
The shift in the market has been quite striking. Reform had genuine momentum earlier in the week, trading at 13/8 and making it a much more competitive contest on paper, but that has changed considerably over the past few days.
A big part of the story is Andy Burnham. The Greater Manchester Mayor has thrown his weight behind the Labour campaign, and his local profile is considerable. William Hill spokesperson Lee Phelps noted that Burnham’s involvement has helped Labour take control of the market, with bettors responding to his backing by piling in on the red side.
Reform’s drift is partly down to Restore Britain’s growing presence in the market. The newer party have been cut from 10/1 to 8/1 in recent days following their candidate announcement, and that has drawn some money away from Farage’s side. When you have two parties competing for a similar pool of anti-Labour votes, it can split the market and benefit the frontrunner, which is exactly what appears to be happening here.
Reform have been riding high nationally after their strong local election showing, and they are currently odds-on favourites for the next general election, but by-elections in traditional Labour heartlands are a different test. Local factors carry more weight, and organisational strength on the ground tends to matter far more than national polling numbers.
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover next Prime Minister odds, general election markets, by-election betting, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
Follow us on X (Twitter), TikTok and LinkedIn for the latest odds updates. Committed to responsible gambling. Please visit GambleAware if you need support. 18+ only.
Can Reform or Restore Britain Cause an Upset?
At 1/3, Labour are firmly in the driving seat, and an upset would be a major story, but by-elections do have a habit of throwing up surprises. The combination of Reform and Restore Britain competing for the same votes could actually help Labour more than it hurts them, particularly if neither party can consolidate the anti-Labour vote behind a single candidate.
Reform at 5/2 still represents a genuine possibility, particularly if their ground game is strong and turnout among Labour supporters is lower than expected. Low turnout by-elections have produced results before that completely defy the national picture, so it would be unwise to entirely rule them out.
Restore Britain at 8/1 is a longer shot, but worth keeping an eye on. Their candidate Rebecca Shepherd has generated some local interest, and the party has shown it can move markets quickly when it gets traction. At those odds, there is a decent return on offer if you think they can cut through in the final stretch.
Overall, Labour look well placed to hold the seat. The market says so, and the political backdrop, with Burnham’s backing and the anti-Labour vote split between two parties, points firmly in the same direction. Polling day is 18 June 2026.
Odds subject to change. Always gamble responsibly. 18+.
The race to become the next James Bond has taken a significant step forward. Amazon MGM Studios has officially confirmed that auditions are now underway for Bond 26, and the betting market has responded sharply. Callum Turner is the odds-on favourite to inherit one of cinema’s most iconic roles, and the gap between him and the rest of the field is growing.
Next James Bond Odds
William Hill have installed Callum Turner as the 8/11 favourite, making him the standout name in the market. Harris Dickinson sits second at 6/4, with Aaron Taylor-Johnson third at 4/1. The full market features a mix of established names and fresh faces, but Turner is pulling clear at the top.
Callum Turner – 8/11
Harris Dickinson – 6/4
Aaron Taylor-Johnson – 4/1
Turner’s odds have shortened considerably in recent weeks, moving from 6/4 to 8/11 on the back of Amazon MGM’s casting confirmation and repeated industry briefings pointing in his direction. Bookmakers are giving him an implied probability of around 57%, which is a significant level of market confidence at this stage of the process.
Why Callum Turner Is the Favourite
Turner is 34, British, and fits the physical profile that producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman are reportedly looking for. His work in Masters of the Air showed he can lead a major production with real weight and presence. He is not a household name in the traditional A-lister sense, which actually works in his favour given reports that the producers want a fresh face rather than a big star.
His engagement to Dua Lipa adds an extra layer of narrative interest, with his fiancee also linked to potentially singing the Bond 26 theme song. The Daily Mail has described him as “the worst-kept secret in town” when it comes to the casting, and the betting market appears to agree.
Turner himself has played it cool publicly, previously joking that the rumours were started by his mum. But the market has not taken that as a denial.
The Challengers
Harris Dickinson at 6/4 is the name most frequently mentioned as a serious rival. The 28-year-old has built serious critical momentum off the back of Babygirl and Triangle of Sadness, and industry sources have reportedly placed him on Amazon MGM’s shortlist. He has shortened from 14/1 to 6/4 over recent months, which is a significant move. At 6/4, he still represents genuine value if the producers decide to go younger.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson at 4/1 has been linked to the role for years and remains a consistent market presence. He fits the brief physically and has the action credentials, but the persistent speculation without any concrete development has cooled his odds somewhat compared to earlier in the year.
What Amazon MGM Have Said
The studio confirmed the search is underway with a measured statement, saying they are excited about the process but not ready to comment on specific details. Casting director Nina Gold, who worked on Game of Thrones and multiple major film productions, is leading the audition process.
Amazon MGM’s Courtenay Valenti confirmed at CinemaCon in April 2026 that no casting decision has been made. The expectation in the industry is that an announcement could come in mid to late 2026, with filming targeting 2027 and a 2028 release window. Bond 26 is being written by Steven Knight and is expected to be directed by Denis Villeneuve.
Amazon MGM has been busy on the entertainment front in 2026. If you follow their output, it is also worth checking the Celebrity Traitors Season 2 cast odds, another market that has attracted significant betting interest this year.
About OddsBoom
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, Cheltenham Festival betting, UK general election markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
Follow us on X (Twitter), TikTok and LinkedIn for the latest odds updates. Committed to responsible gambling. Please visit GambleAware if you need support. 18+ only.
Is Turner Worth Backing at 8/11?
The honest answer is that the value has shortened considerably. At 8/11 you are not getting a great return for what is still an unconfirmed casting decision that could be months away. The smarter play is to look at Harris Dickinson at 6/4, who profiles closely to what the production team appear to want and has the industry backing to go with it.
If you want to take a longer shot, the market beyond the top three is worth scanning once more names emerge from the audition process. A clear announcement is unlikely before late 2026, which means this market will keep moving on rumour and industry leaks for some time yet.
The one thing that is clear is that the Bond 26 casting will be one of the biggest entertainment stories of the next 12 months. Keep an eye on the odds as the process develops. For more entertainment betting markets, see our Love Island 2026 winner odds and Eurovision 2026 odds.
Odds subject to change. Always gamble responsibly. 18+.
Love Island 2026 gets underway tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and the bookmakers have wasted no time opening their markets. The top male betting is already live, and one name is out in front before a single episode has aired.
Aidan Murphy Leads the Top Male Market
Aidan Murphy, a 23-year-old property broker from Kent, is the 4/1 favourite to be named top male this summer. He has come across well in pre-show interviews, with an easy-going nature and a genuine approach to finding someone he actually likes rather than playing the game. That kind of personality tends to connect with viewers.
Sean Fitzgerald sits just behind at 9/2, with Sam Workman next in the market at 5/1. Ope Sowande is 11/2, Lorenzo Alessi is 6/1, and Samraj Toor brings up the rear of the main market at 15/2.
The full top male odds for Love Island 2026 are:
Aidan Murphy – 4/1
Sean Fitzgerald – 9/2
Sam Workman – 5/1
Ope Sowande – 11/2
Lorenzo Alessi – 6/1
Samraj Toor – 15/2
What Do the Early Odds Tell Us?
The market is fairly open at this stage, which makes sense. Nobody has seen these islanders in action yet. The gap between Aidan at 4/1 and Samraj at 15/2 is not massive, which tells you the bookmakers are not particularly confident in any one outcome.
Aidan’s front-runner status is based largely on his personality profile. He is not someone who sees the other lads as competition, and he is not looking to stir things up. Viewers tend to reward that. The guys who come in loud and confident often find themselves on the wrong side of a public vote later in the series.
Sean Fitzgerald at 9/2 is worth keeping an eye on. He is close enough to the favourite to represent decent value if he hits the ground running in the first week.
The top male market is one where patience pays off. Betting before episode one is essentially a punt on personality profiles and pre-show clips. The real picture starts to emerge after the first coupling up, and by the end of week two you will have a much better idea of who is connecting with the public.
If Aidan pairs up well tonight and comes across as genuine on screen, expect his odds to shorten fast. If he struggles to find a connection, the market will shift quickly towards whoever makes the strongest early impression.
Love Island 2026 airs every night except Saturdays at 9pm on ITV2, and streams on ITVX.
About OddsBoom
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, Cheltenham Festival betting, UK general election markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
Follow us on X (Twitter), TikTok and LinkedIn for the latest odds updates. Committed to responsible gambling. Please visit GambleAware if you need support. 18+ only.
Can Anyone Upset the Favourite?
Lorenzo Alessi at 6/1 is an interesting one. He is a 28-year-old business owner from Hertfordshire with a strong sense of what he wants. Older islanders sometimes struggle to connect with younger viewers, but when they do find their footing they tend to be well liked. He could be the value pick at this stage.
Ope Sowande at 11/2 is also worth a look. Fresh faces with strong personalities often catch fire once the public starts voting, and his odds leave a bit of room for profit if he makes an early impact.
The honest answer is that this market will look very different by the end of week one. Tonight’s coupling up will set the tone, and the odds will move quickly in response.
Odds subject to change. Always gamble responsibly. 18+.
Love Island 2026 starts tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and the top female market is already open. Six women are priced up ahead of the first episode, with one clear favourite emerging before a single coupling has taken place.
Ellie Chadwick Leads the Top Female Betting
Ellie Chadwick, a 24-year-old real estate videographer from West Lothian, is the 3/1 favourite to be named top female this summer. She has talked openly about going into the villa with a fresh mindset, having worked on herself ahead of the series. That kind of self-awareness tends to resonate well with viewers.
Robyn Langton sits just behind at 4/1. The 21-year-old quantity surveyor and DJ from Liverpool is direct about what she wants and has said she plans to observe before making her move. Jasmine Muller is next in the market at 5/1, with Lola Deal at 11/2. Angelista and Mica Harris round out the top female market, both priced at 6/1.
The full top female odds for Love Island 2026 are:
Ellie Chadwick – 3/1
Robyn Langton – 4/1
Jasmine Muller – 5/1
Lola Deal – 11/2
Angelista – 6/1
Mica Harris – 6/1
What Do the Early Odds Tell Us?
Ellie being installed as the clear favourite at 3/1 suggests the bookmakers see something in her profile that stands out from the rest. She comes across as confident without being loud about it, and her backstory of focusing on herself before entering the villa gives her a relatable angle that viewers often connect with.
Robyn at 4/1 is close enough to the favourite to be worth serious consideration. She knows what she wants, she has a strong personality, and she is not going to rush into anything. That combination of confidence and patience has worked well for previous winners.
Jasmine Muller at 5/1 is interesting. She has been vocal about going after what she wants, even in competitive situations. That attitude can divide opinion early on, but if she handles it well on screen, she could build a strong fanbase quickly.
Lola Deal at 11/2 is the one that stands out for value at this stage. She is a 28-year-old detective from Kent, and older islanders who come across as grounded and no-nonsense tend to attract genuine public support once the series gets going. At 11/2, there is a decent return if she makes a strong impression in the first couple of weeks.
Angelista and Mica Harris are both 6/1, making them the longest shots in the market. At those prices, either could represent good value if they click with the public early on. A strong first episode can shift these odds quickly.
About OddsBoom
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, Cheltenham Festival betting, UK general election markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
Follow us on X (Twitter), TikTok and LinkedIn for the latest odds updates. Committed to responsible gambling. Please visit GambleAware if you need support. 18+ only.
When Is the Best Time to Bet?
As with any reality TV betting market, the smart approach is to wait and see how the first few episodes play out. Pre-show odds are based on personality profiles and brief clips, not on how someone actually performs when the cameras are rolling full time.
By the end of week one you will have a much clearer picture of who is connecting with the public, who is causing drama for the right reasons, and who is already fading into the background. If Ellie or Robyn make a strong early impression tonight, expect their odds to tighten significantly.
Love Island 2026 airs every night except Saturdays at 9pm on ITV2, and streams on ITVX.
Odds subject to change. Always gamble responsibly. 18+.
Love Island is back for 2026. Series 13 launches on ITV2 on June 1st, and the bookmakers have already opened their markets. With a brand new cast of islanders heading into the villa, there is plenty to get stuck into from a betting perspective, and some interesting names are already making waves in the early odds.
Who Are the Early Favourites to Win Love Island 2026?
Aidan and Robyn are leading the winner odds heading into launch night. Aidan is a 23-year-old property broker from Kent. He comes across as relaxed and self-aware, saying he does not really see the other guys as competition. That kind of attitude tends to go down well with the public vote.
Robyn is a 21-year-old quantity surveyor and DJ from Liverpool. She knows what she wants and has said she will observe first before making her move. Fans of the show tend to warm to islanders who do not rush in headfirst, and Robyn fits that mould well.
Together, they are the pairing to watch early on. Whether that lasts once the bombshells arrive is another matter entirely.
The Full Love Island 2026 Cast
Here is a look at the confirmed islanders for this year’s series:
Aidan – 23, property broker, Kent. Laid-back, values personality over looks, hoping the villa gives his dating life a kickstart.
Robyn – 21, quantity surveyor and DJ, Liverpool. Knows her type but won’t rush. Likes to observe before committing.
Lorenzo – 28, business owner, Hertfordshire. Confident, has a very specific idea of what he is looking for.
Lola – 28, detective, Kent. Looking for someone tall with a strong personality to match her own.
Ellie – 24, real estate videographer, West Lothian. Not taking any nonsense this time around, after working on herself ahead of entering.
Jasmine – looking for someone objectively good-looking, charismatic and confident. Put off by insecurity.
Sean – keeps it simple when asked his type: “Female.” Says he won’t get involved in drama, but might end up in the mix anyway.
Maya Jama returns as host and Iain Stirling is back on narration. Last year’s series pulled in over 1.6 million viewers per episode, one of the strongest runs in years, so expectations are high for 2026.
What Betting Markets Are Available?
The main market is the winning couple, but there is more to bet on than just the outright. Most bookmakers also offer:
Next to be dumped – one of the more fun markets, updated as the series progresses
First couple to couple up – available at the very start before anyone has set foot in the villa
Bet365 and William Hill tend to have the widest range of Love Island markets, so worth checking both for the best prices across all of the above.
Tips for Betting on Love Island
Jumping in on day one is tempting, but the smarter play is usually to wait two or three weeks. By then you get a proper feel for who is connecting, who the public actually likes, and which couples have staying power.
A few things that tend to work in a couple’s favour with the public vote:
Staying loyal when Casa Amor comes around
Being funny and likeable on screen without stirring up unnecessary drama
Showing a genuine connection rather than a convenient one
The previous series was won by Toni Laites and Cach Mercer, who built their connection slowly and came across as one of the more genuine couples in the villa. The year before that, Ciaran Davies and Samie Elishi took the All Stars crown. Public votes tend to reward authenticity.
About OddsBoom
OddsBoom is a UK betting odds and analysis site covering football, horse racing, politics, golf and TV markets. Our content is written by experienced odds analyst Dave James, whose work has been cited in major UK publications.
We cover Premier League next manager odds, Cheltenham Festival betting, UK general election markets, Love Island winner odds and much more. All odds are tracked as markets move, so you always get up-to-date analysis.
Follow us on X (Twitter), TikTok and LinkedIn for the latest odds updates. Committed to responsible gambling. Please visit GambleAware if you need support. 18+ only.
Will the Early Favourites Last?
Aidan and Robyn are worth watching, but pre-show favourites have a mixed record. The villa changes people, and once bombshells arrive, even the strongest-looking couples can wobble. If they hold firm through Casa Amor, the odds will shorten sharply and you will lose your window to get a decent price.
For now, the sensible approach is to keep an eye on the opening episodes, see how the couples form, and look for value in the markets before the public really gets behind one pair.
Love Island 2026 is on ITV2 every night except Saturdays at 9pm, and available to stream on ITVX.
Odds subject to change. Always gamble responsibly. 18+.
