The 2025 F1 season has reached its midway point, and the battle for the Drivers’ Championship is heating up. Oscar Piastri has emerged as the dominant force, but Lando Norris and Max Verstappen are still within striking distance. With 12 races remaining, betting markets are buzzing with anticipation.
This 600+ word guide covers:
✔ Latest odds (American & decimal)
✔ Top contenders & their chances
✔ Key factors influencing the title race
✔ Smart betting strategies
Current F1 Drivers’ Championship Odds (June 2025)
| Driver | Team | American Odds | Decimal Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oscar Piastri | McLaren | -163 | 1.61 | 62.1% |
| Lando Norris | McLaren | +175 | 2.75 | 36.4% |
| Max Verstappen | Red Bull | +800 | 9.00 | 11.1% |
| George Russell | Mercedes | +15000 | 151.00 | 0.7% |
| Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | +15000 | 151.00 | 0.7% |
(Odds via Bet365, DraftKings, and Polymarket as of June 8, 2025).
Key Takeaways:
- Piastri (-163) is the strong favorite, leading the standings with 186 points after 5 wins in 9 races.
- Norris (+175) remains a threat, just 10 points behind his teammate.
- Verstappen (+800) is a distant third but could capitalize if McLaren falters.
- Russell & Leclerc (+15000) are long shots after inconsistent performances.
Top Contenders: Who Could Win?
1. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – -163
Why He’s Favored:
- 5 wins in 9 races, including a dominant streak in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Miami.
- McLaren’s superior car – The MCL60 is the fastest on the grid, especially on high-speed tracks.
- Consistency – Piastri has finished top 2 in 7 of 9 races.
Weaknesses:
- Team dynamics – Norris could take points off him in close battles.
- Pressure – First full title challenge for the 24-year-old.
2. Lando Norris (McLaren) – +175
Why He’s a Threat:
- Won Monaco & Australia, proving he can outperform Piastri on street circuits.
- Experience – Came 2nd in 2024 and knows how to handle title pressure.
- Team support – McLaren may favor him if the title race tightens.
Weaknesses:
- Qualifying struggles – Piastri has out-qualified him 6-3 this season.
- Reliability – Two DNFs in 2025 (Spain & Imola).
3. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – +800
Longshot Appeal:
- 2 wins (Japan & Imola) – Proves Red Bull can still compete on certain tracks.
- Championship pedigree – Four-time defending champ knows how to rally.
- Upgrades coming – Red Bull’s mid-season development could close the gap.
Weaknesses:
- Car deficit – The RB21 struggles with tire wear and slow corners.
- Teammate struggles – Liam Lawson (rookie) isn’t taking points off rivals.
Key Factors Influencing the Title Race
1. McLaren’s Dominance
- The team has won 7 of 9 races and leads the Constructors’ Championship by 105 points.
- Piastri vs. Norris rivalry could decide the title if neither backs down.
2. Red Bull’s Fightback
- Verstappen needs at least 3 more wins to stay in contention.
- Upcoming tracks like Silverstone & Spa favor Red Bull’s straight-line speed.
3. Mercedes & Ferrari’s Role
- Russell & Leclerc could play spoilers by stealing podium spots.
- Ferrari’s upcoming upgrades might shake up the order.
How to Bet on the F1 Drivers’ Championship
Best Betting Markets
- Outright Winner (Piastri -163 / Norris +175)
- Top 3 Finish (Verstappen -200 / Russell +400)
- Race-by-Race Matchups (e.g., Piastri vs. Norris in Canada)
Where to Bet
- Mainstream Books: Bet365, DraftKings (best for live odds).
- Prediction Markets: Polymarket (for hedging strategies).
Betting Strategy
- Safe Pick: Piastri -163 (low risk, high probability).
- Value Bet: Norris +175 (if McLaren favors him later).
- Long Shot: Verstappen +800 (if Red Bull improves).
Final Prediction & Best Bets
- Most Likely Outcome: Piastri wins (62% implied odds).
- Upset Scenario: Norris surges after summer break.
- Dark Horse: Verstappen if McLaren stumbles.
