Flutter, the company behind renowned brands such as Betfair, Paddy Power, and Sky Betting & Gaming, witnessed an influx of over £100 million ($127 million) from nearly 22 million bets placed during Royal Ascot week. Notably, the “Frankie Factor,” attributed to jockey Frankie Dettori’s popularity, influenced punters’ betting patterns. Flutter alone recorded 3.5 million bets placed on Dettori, with many showing support for his final Royal Ascot appearance. The event featured several remarkable outcomes, including an 80/1 upset by Khadeem in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee race, resulting in significant payouts. Furthermore, history was made as female jockey Hollie Doyle won a Group 1 race, and Valiant Force’s 150/1 odds produced the joint-biggest return in a British or Irish Group race.
The Frankie Factor and Punters’ Bets:
The influence of jockey Frankie Dettori, known as the “Frankie Factor,” played a significant role in punters’ betting decisions during Royal Ascot. Flutter reported an astonishing 3.5 million bets placed on Dettori, indicating widespread support for the renowned jockey during his final Royal Ascot appearance.
Khadeem’s Upset and Costly Payouts:
In a surprising turn of events, Khadeem, ridden by jockey Jamie Spencer, pulled off an 80/1 upset in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee race. This unexpected outcome resulted in Flutter incurring over £2 million in payouts, showcasing the impact of long-shot victories on betting operators.
Historic Wins and Unexpected Odds:
Royal Ascot witnessed significant moments in racing history. Hollie Doyle became the first female jockey to win a Group 1 race with her victory in the King’s Stand Stakes. Moreover, Valiant Force’s triumph in the Group 2 Norfolk Stakes, despite odds of 150/1, matched the highest return in a British or Irish Group race.
High Odds Winners and Donations:
Out of the 25 races at Royal Ascot, 17 produced winners with double-figure odds, emphasizing the prevalence of surprise outcomes. Consequently, the total donation by members of the Betting and Gambling Council (BGC) for charitable causes was £277,000, significantly lower than the £1.2 million donated in the previous year. Flutter’s Chief Executive for the UK & Ireland, Ian Brown, expressed pride in supporting the BGC’s charitable initiative and highlighted the potential positive impact the donation could have on the involved charities.
Flutter experienced an immense influx of bets and witnessed captivating moments during Royal Ascot week. The “Frankie Factor” drove significant betting activity, with punters rallying behind jockey Frankie Dettori in his final appearance at Royal Ascot. The event featured surprising outcomes, including Khadeem’s 80/1 upset and Valiant Force’s triumph against long odds. Hollie Doyle’s historic win as the first female jockey to claim a Group 1 race added to the event’s excitement. Furthermore, the prevalence of high odds winners prompted a decrease in donations from the Betting and Gambling Council compared to the previous year. Flutter’s commitment to supporting charitable causes reflects the company’s dedication to making a positive difference in the community. Royal Ascot continues to captivate both racing enthusiasts and the betting industry, showcasing the allure and unpredictable nature of the sport.