UK Bettors Hesitant to Back Their National Team

Despite a strong start in the tournament, only a fifth of UK bettors are backing the Three Lions to win EURO 2024, according to new data from Entain. This insight reveals a significant lack of confidence among UK fans, even as England secured the top spot in Group C. While the team’s lackluster performance dissuaded most bettors, some still hope the team can pull through.

The Three Lions Struggled in the Early Stages

Entain’s analysis of UK and European sports betting data highlights that just 20% of UK bets are placed on England, showcasing a stark lack of support compared to other nations. Interestingly, the number of bets by UK customers has more than doubled (121%) for EURO 2024 compared to 2021. This surge indicates heightened engagement and greater confidence among fans in predicting the tournament’s outcome.

The most bet-on match so far has been England’s opening game against Serbia, where Jude Bellingham’s goal secured the only win for England thus far. However, a deeper analysis of Entain’s UK sportsbook (Ladbrokes and Coral) reveals a decrease in outright bets on England to win the tournament, dropping significantly from the tournament’s 2021 edition.

This decline reflects a growing skepticism among UK bettors following England’s underwhelming performance in the group stage. However, the tournament is still anybody’s game, with 21% of outright bets favoring England and 22% – Italy. Germany, the host nation, has attracted 14% of outright bets, while France, England, Germany, and Spain each have 13%.

Fan Sentiment May Not Reflect Actual Chances

In contrast to the UK, Portugal emerged as the most patriotic nation, with 60% of Portuguese punters backing their team. Spain follows with 49%, Germany with 44%, and France with 30%. Ronaldo remains the favorite to become the tournament’s top scorer, enjoying 76% support at home and over 20% in Germany and Austria.

Jamie MacDonald, head of sportsbook analytics at Entain, commented on the trends, noting that the data supported broader fan sentiment. However, he didn’t write England out despite its unimpressive start. MacDonald added that the Three Lions still had time to find their stride as the team enters the Round of 16 this weekend.

We love seeing our customers excited, having fun, and being entertained – that’s what this tournament is all about.

Jamie MacDonald, Entain head of sportsbook analytics

Despite tepid home support, England has a chance to reignite faith and passion among their fans with robust performances in the coming rounds. It is important to remember that betting trends represent only one part of Euro 2024. The tournament undoubtedly holds many surprises and exciting moments, perfectly demonstrating the unpredictability and excitement at the core of soccer’s enduring global popularity.