Best Early Bets for F1

I want to start this article by stating that I’m not a professional in the world of gambling, nor do I claim to be. This article is entirely based on facts and opinions. If you heed this advice, do so at your own risk and never gamble more than you’re willing to lose. Note that all odds are from FanDuel on January 30, 2025. 

1. Drivers Champion

Bets I Like

Max Verstappen +220

Charles Leclerc +460

Bets I Dislike

Lando Norris +220

Lewis Hamilton +500

Why I like Verstappen and Leclerc

The simple answer for Max Verstappen is that he is the best driver in Formula One. Just as long as Red Bull can provide him with at least a third-place car, he is a serious threat to win his fifth driver’s championship. 

For Charles Leclerc, the answer is I believe that Ferrari is ready to compete this season. It is now or never for them, as new regulations hit in 2026, and the deck will be reshuffled. They know this, and it’s time for them to capitalize. I truly believe that Leclerc will be a serious threat to the driver’s championship.

Why I dislike Norris and Hamilton

For Lando Norris, it’s because I can’t get over how bad his race starts are. Most of his issues for the 2024 Formula One season were self-inflicted. Race starts aren’t something that you can just improve o,n and it’s going to cost him in 2025.

For Lewis Hamilton, it’s because he’s passed his prime. I hate to say it, but the dominant Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton, is no more. This happens to every athlete and we should cherish that we got to see such greatness.

2. Teammate Battles 

Bets I like

Oscar Piastri +240

Oliver Bearman +225

Piastri, at +240, is a great value; he’s ready to surpass Lando Norris. McLaren is primed for a big 2025, and Piastri will take the next step.

Oliver Bearman has two races at Haas and went 1-1 against Nico Hulkenberg. He has the talent to beat Ocon. 

Bets I dislike

Alex Albon +350

Lewis Hamilton +154

Alex Albon now has Carlos Sainz to contend with, he’s at -550, the best odds of any driver. Franco Colapinto gave Albon trouble last season. Sainz will blow him out of the water.

As I stated earlier, Lewis Hamilton is past his prime. His teammate will compete for the driver’s championship, but I don’t believe Hamilton will. 

Image Credit: Getty Images/ Red Bull Content Pool

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