“‘HE’S THE FAVORITE… BUT THE STORY ISN’T OVER YET.’” Rafferty Coope Has Suddenly Emerged As The Leading Contender To Win Britain’s Got Talent 2026 After A String Of Show-Stopping Performances Captivated Viewers Across The Country — But Two Rivals Are Still Lurking Close Behind, Setting Up What Could Be The Most Unpredictable Final In Years. What began as a remarkable underdog journey has now turned into a high-stakes battle for the crown, with fans obsessively rewatching Rafferty’s performances while others insist the competition’s biggest surprise may still be waiting for finale night. Now excitement is reaching fever pitch as viewers prepare for one last showdown, and many are wondering whether Rafferty’s next performance will seal his destiny… or open the door for a dramatic last-minute upset that nobody sees coming.

WINCHESTER teenager Rafferty Coope has surged to the top of betting support for the Britain’s Got Talent crown, just days before the 2026 grand final airs.

The 17-year-old, known for his unique blend of magic and music, has become one of the most backed contestants this week, attracting around 26% of all wagers placed via Oddschecker. He is currently priced at 5/1, placing him third in the overall betting market despite strong public momentum.

According to the latest figures, comedian Sonny Green remains the outright favourite to win at 7/4, followed closely by singer Matty Juniosa at 4/1, both holding stronger implied winning probabilities going into the live show.

Finalists prepare for a star-studded showdown

The Britain’s Got Talent 2026 final has assembled a diverse line-up of 10 acts, including a fire-juggler, drone display collective, dog act, farmers’ choir, dancers and magicians, all competing for the £250,000 prize and a coveted Royal Variety Performance slot.

Among the standout finalists are drone art group Celestial, dog act Anastasiia and Salsa, magician Fabian Fox, and the much-loved Hawkstone Farmers Choir, who all earned their place through a combination of Golden Buzzers and public votes during the semi-finals.

The grand final will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX on Saturday, May 30 from 7pm to 9.30pm, with Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly returning to host. The judging panel features Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon, and KSI.

Betting surge highlights growing support

Despite not leading the outright betting odds, Rafferty Coope’s recent rise has drawn significant attention from punters, reflecting growing belief that the teen could deliver a surprise victory.

Oddschecker spokesperson Chris Rogers said support for the young magician has strengthened in the final week of betting activity.

“Punters have rallied behind magical sensation Rafferty Coope this week in the Britain’s Got Talent betting market,” he said. “At 5/1, the 17-year-old has an implied winning probability of 17%, putting him behind Sonny Green and Matty Juniosa in the bookmaker’s top three.”

The winner of BGT 2026 will take home £250,000 and the opportunity to perform at the Royal Variety Performance, continuing the show’s tradition of launching standout talent onto a national stage.