Strictly Come Dancing's next winner 'emerges' and it's not Chris McCausland

According to new findings, it won't be Chris McCausland who lifts the 2024 Strictly Come Dancing trophy.

For weeks now, many bookies have believed that the comedian had the win in the bag, with his odds proving to be even more favourable as the season comes to a close. However, it appears as the series narrows, the tides may now be turning and there could be a new person victorious.

Odds for Sarah Hadland have significantly shortened from 11/2 to 5/2 with BetMGM putting her in the running to be crowned this year. The actress, who finished third on the week seven leaderboard, is still behind the 1/2 favourite Chris McCausland, but the weight of money suggests she's now a genuine candidate against him.

Love Island star Tasha Ghouri is also in with a good chance with her odds now tipping at 8/1, putting her in third place - if those who are placing bets are to be correct that is.

Speaking about the possible winners shift, UK director Sam Behar, at BetMGM said: "There has been a big market move on Sarah Hadland to be crowned the next Strictly Come Dancing champion."

He concluded: "Her odds of winning the Glitterball trophy have moved from 11/2 to 5/2 in the last few days. She's still behind the 1/2 favourite Chris McCausland but has become a serious contender ahead of Tasha Ghouri at 8/1 and Jamie Borthwick at 20/1."

Sarah is currently teamed up with Vito Coppola on the popular BBC programme, with the pair celebrating no other than Madonna on last week's show for Strictly's first ever Icons Week.

Alongside pro-dancer Vito they performed the Cha Cha Cha to the singer's chart topping 1989 track, Like a Prayer, during week seven of Strictly's 2024 series.

The judges were full of praise including Motsi Mabuse who hailed the pair on their 'iconic' dance. Head judge Shirley Ballas said they showcased 'gorgeous' details but felt their routine lacked "fluidity and flexibility".

Anton Du Beke was "speechless" while Craig Revel Horwood commented that it was a "powerhouse performance". Sarah and Vito earned a well deserved 37 out of 40 points from all four judges.

In spite of the stiff competition and Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell still pipped as favourites for this series, Vito wanted to take some time out to commend his co-stars for their efforts.

Supporting his co-star and proving there is no bad blood in the battle for the glitterball trophy. The Italian dancer responded to a clip shared by Dianne on social media.

The snippet showcased the Australian dancer and Chris in action, rocking away to the band KISS and delivering a seamless Tango. Bagging themselves 29 points. Vito penned: "Love you guys. Chris we all love you and Gorji @diannebuswell I'm just so proud of you."

Strictly Come Dancing will be back on screens this weekend on BBC One.