The annual Grand National has once again been confirmed as the most popular betting event of the year, according to data released by the global sports betting company Entain. This prestigious horse race, held at Aintree in northern England, continues to capture the attention of bettors worldwide, affirming its status as a cultural phenomenon in the realm of sports wagering.
Entain, which operates renowned brands such as Ladbrokes, Coral, and BetMGM, analyzed global betting trends across various sports and cultures. The findings revealed that while the Grand National remains the undisputed leader, the Super Bowl follows closely as the second most popular betting event. Described as a “global betting phenomenon,” the Super Bowl consistently draws significant wagering interest, highlighting the event’s extensive reach beyond American borders.
Key Betting Events and Trends
The analysis provided by Entain shows that stand-alone televised games are crucial in driving betting activity. Events such as the opening games of the NFL season, particularly the matchup between the Detroit Lions and the Baltimore Ravens, have made their mark within the top 20 betting events. These prime-time slots, including Monday and Thursday Night Football, play a pivotal role in engaging bettors.
Global football also holds a prominent place in betting interests, with finals ranking high in popularity. The Champions League Final ranks fifth, followed by the Club World Cup Final at seventh, and the Nations League Final at ninth. Additionally, the Copa Libertadores Final features at nineteenth, underscoring the diverse interests of bettors around the world. The Europa League Final also made its presence felt at fifteenth, showcasing the competitive nature of European football.
Domestic fixtures have not been overlooked, with the match between Manchester United and Liverpool emerging as the most popular domestic betting event globally. The US Masters rounds out the top three events, reflecting the ongoing popularity of golf among bettors.
Insights from Entain’s Managing Director
Greg Ferris, Managing Director of Sports at Entain, commented on the findings, stating, “From Cheltenham to the Super Bowl, and from Champions League to the Libertadores Final, this list shows how our customers’ interests span continents and sports.” He emphasized that both the Grand National and the Super Bowl are annual traditions that transcend sports, capturing the imagination of recreational bettors.
Ferris added that the diversity of the top 50 events reflects the company’s global footprint and the varied passions of millions of fans worldwide. This breadth of interests highlights how sports betting continues to evolve, catering to a wide range of preferences across different regions and cultures.
As the betting landscape continues to grow, the Grand National’s enduring appeal as the top event of 2023 underscores its significance not just in the UK, but as a major occasion for bettors around the globe.
