The 2026 Mercury Prize could deliver one of the closest results in the contest's history, with two acts now joint favourites just hours before the ceremony in Newcastle. Olivia Dean and Nia Archives are both priced at 7/2, with Nia Archives having narrowed the gap over the past week.
Joint Favourites Emerge
Olivia Dean has led the betting since the shortlist was announced in the summer, with her album The Art of Loving seen as the one to beat. However, a change in the odds this week saw Nia Archives close the gap, and by lunchtime on Thursday there was nothing to separate the pair.
The ceremony takes place at the Utilita Arena on Thursday evening, with a packed crowd expected. The result follows last year's win for Sam Fender's People Watching, which was named Album of the Year by the judges and prompted celebrations inside the venue.
Strong Field of Contenders
Suede are also in the running with their new album Antidepressants, which has been hailed as one of their best. Other contenders include Dove Ellis at 4/1, RAYE at 6/1, and Kojey Radical, Florence & the Machine, and Dave all at 10/1.
The shortlist also features Knats, Artists for War Child, JADE, and Sir Paul McCartney, with odds ranging from 12/1 to 16/1. The winner will follow in the footsteps of previous champions such as Primal Scream, M People, Pulp, and Suede.
