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Israel head the betting for Eurovision 2026
Vienna plays host to Eurovision 2026 with the competition kicking off in early May and the grand final taking place on the 16th May.
Let’s take at the leading contenders for the music contest.
Eurovision 2026 Odds
The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is already shaping up to be one of the most open renewals in recent memory, and the latest prices suggest a genuine battle at the top of the market.
With national selections underway and rehearsals still months off, the odds paint a picture of a contest led by Israel and Finland, but there’s plenty of depth in the chasing pack.
At the head of the betting is Israel at 7/2. Israel has become one of Eurovision’s most consistent modern performers, blending slick staging with contemporary pop production.
At this early stage, the market clearly expects another competitive entry capable of appealing to both juries and televoters. Sitting at 7/2, they’re the team everyone else must aim at.
Close behind at 9/2 is Finland, who have firmly established themselves as a Eurovision powerhouse in recent years. Finland’s recent strategy of sending bold, distinctive entries has paid off handsomely, and punters clearly expect another memorable, televote-friendly performance in 2026. At just a point bigger than Israel, this looks like a two-horse race at the top for now.
Third in the market is Greece at 7/1. Greece often thrives when combining strong vocals with cinematic staging, and bookmakers are keeping them firmly in the conversation. At 7/1, they sit in that interesting middle ground – not quite favourites, but well within striking distance if rehearsals generate buzz.
You can never ignore Sweden at Eurovision, and they’re priced at 8/1. Sweden’s formula of polished pop, immaculate staging and jury appeal means they are rarely out of contention. While not leading the market this time, 8/1 could look generous if they unveil another radio-ready anthem.
Meanwhile, Italy sits at 10/1. Italy’s recent Eurovision record has been remarkably strong, consistently delivering quality entries that resonate across Europe. At double-figure odds, they represent one of the more intriguing value plays if they land on a standout live performance.
Three nations are grouped at 12/1: Malta, Bulgaria and Ukraine.
Ukraine is never a nation to underestimate. Their Eurovision consistency and ability to connect emotionally with audiences make 12/1 look potentially big if they bring a powerful package. Malta and Bulgaria, meanwhile, are both capable of surprise results if they hit on the right song and staging concept.
Rounding out the leading contenders is France at 14/1. France has been increasingly competitive in recent years and could easily shorten in the betting if their entry captures early fan momentum.
With Israel narrowly ahead and Finland close behind, Eurovision 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive contests in years. A strong Nordic presence, dangerous mid-priced challengers and proven Eurovision heavyweights ensure the betting market remains fluid, with plenty of room for momentum shifts before rehearsals begin.
