The race for the Strictly Come Dancing 2025 crown has taken a dramatic turn just days before the Grand Final, with new betting evidence suggesting a change in the likely winner. The coveted Glitterball Trophy will be awarded this Saturday, but the identity of the champion is now less certain than previously thought.
Betting Odds Reveal New Favourite
Exclusive odds from Betway have reshaped the predictions for the final. Karen Carney has surged ahead to become the clear favourite to win the series, with odds of 1/2. This places her ahead of former frontrunner George Clarke, the YouTuber, who now trails in second place with odds of 13/8.
The third finalist, Amber Davies, faces a much steeper challenge according to the bookmakers, with long odds of 40/1 to secure victory. Her place in the final was only confirmed after a tense dance-off during last weekend's semi-final.
Semi-Final Drama and Emotional Exits
The semi-final results show on Sunday saw Amber Davies and her professional partner Nikita Kuzmin land in the bottom two alongside the pairing of Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon. Following the dance-off, the judges chose to save Amber, ending Balvinder's journey in the competition.
An emotional Balvinder reflected on her experience, telling host Tess Daly: "I've absolutely adored every single minute... It was my Yes Year, and I said yes to Strictly." She paid a heartfelt tribute to her partner Julian, saying, "You've just held me in your hands... I've never felt alone on this floor."
Julian, for whom Balvinder was his debut celebrity partner, responded in kind: "Her spirit is unbreakable... It took six dance-offs and a perfect score to take this lady out, so I am so, so proud of you!"
A Tribute to the Hosts and the Final Showdown
The semi-final also featured a surprise tribute to long-standing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, ahead of their final appearance after this year's festive special. The presenting duo were presented with unique golden Glitterball trophies by the judging panel, assisted by Kai Widdrington.
All eyes now turn to the Grand Final, which airs at 7pm this Saturday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The final three celebrities will battle it out for the title, with former contestants from this year's series returning to offer their support. With the odds shifting so close to the final, the competition for the Glitterball Trophy remains wide open.
