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- Kylian Mbappé is 5/2 favourite for TIME Athlete of the Year 2026.
- Shohei Ohtani sits second in the betting at 10/3.
- The 2026 World Cup could heavily influence this year’s award.
Mbappé Heads TIME Athlete of the Year Market
UK betting sites have opened the 2026 TIME Athlete of the Year market with France superstar Kylian Mbappé installed as the 5/2 favourite.
Alongside TIME Magazine’s famous Person of the Year award the publication also recognises an Entertainer and Athlete of the Year with global sporting impact central to the selection process.
Last year’s honour went to WNBA and Team USA star A’ja Wilson following a historic season on the basketball court.
For 2026, however, bookmakers believe the spotlight could shift firmly toward football.
With the FIFA World Cup taking place in the United States this year, Mbappé’s 5/2 price reflects both his global profile and France’s tournament expectations.
2026 TIME Athlete of the Year Odds
| 2026 TIME Athlete of the Year | Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|
| Kylian Mbappé | 5/2 | 28.6% |
| Shohei Ohtani | 10/3 | 23.1% |
| Harry Kane | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Erling Haaland | 5/1 | 16.7% |
| Lamine Yamal | 15/2 | 11.8% |
| Max Verstappen | 9/1 | 10.0% |
Mbappé’s implied probability of 28.6% places him narrowly ahead of baseball phenomenon Shohei Ohtani at 10/3.
World Cup Year Could Prove Decisive
In major tournament years, TIME selections often lean toward athletes who transcend sport and dominate global headlines.
With the 2026 World Cup hosted in America, the event is expected to generate record viewership and cultural attention potentially giving footballers an edge in this market.
Harry Kane and Erling Haaland are both priced at 5/1 reflecting the possibility that either could lead their nations deep into the tournament while continuing domestic dominance.
Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal at 15/2 represents an intriguing outsider in the market given his ability.
Ohtani the Major Non-Football Challenger
Shohei Ohtani remains a serious contender at 10/3.
The MLB superstar continues to redefine baseball performance standards and with the US sporting spotlight firmly on home soil this year, a historic MLB campaign could rival World Cup narratives.
Max Verstappen at 9/1 completes the shortlist. If the former Formula 1 champion delivers a dominant season particularly in the expanding American F1 market he could enter serious contention.
However, at this stage, betting sites clearly expect the award to be shaped by football’s global showcase.
Where To Bet on TIME Awards
The TIME Athlete of the Year market is available across major UK betting sites offering entertainment and novelty specials.
For broader awards coverage, explore our guide to the best entertainment betting sites.
Markets are betting live and likely to fluctuate significantly as the sporting calendar unfolds.
