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LeBron and Curry’s Team USA beat Germany to finish Olympics tuneups undefeated – now they must emulate MJ and Magic’s ’92 Dream Team and win gold

Joshua Rogers — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 21:54:54 +0000

The King and the Splash Brother did exactly what they were supposed to do – just about.

The 2024 USA Basketball Men’s National Team narrowly beat Germany 92-88 in front of a hyped up crowd at the 02 Arena on Monday night to finish their Olympics warm up games undefeated.

LeBron set the tone early against Germany

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Steve Kerr’s team kicked their international tour off with wins against Canada, Australia and Serbia before avoiding a huge upset against a spirited South Sudan in London on Saturday.

Team USA – made up of a dizzying array of All-Star and All-NBA talent – ended their five-game exhibition run with a tough win against world champions Germany – who stunned the US last year to reach the final of the 2023 FIBA World Cup in Manila.

LeBron – who earlier in the day was announced as the male flagbearer for the US at the Olympics – set the tone early on, rolling back the years against the European basketball powerhouse with an impressive reverse dunk.

His second made field goal was just as crowd-pleasing as he threw down a a perfectly-timed Jrue Holiday alley-oop.

Germany kept things close and before the end of the quarter Team USA were up 29-19.

The Germans cut the lead down to five in the second quarter and LeBron and Steph were soon back out on the floor together.

Curry had 13 points but endured an uncharacteristically poor shooting night, going 5-of-13 from the field as he struggled to find his rhythm.

Michael Jordan clone Anthony Edwards then showed the UK crowd why he’s the next big thing in the NBA with a pair of stunning dunks.

His most vicious came after crossing up a defender on the break and throwing down a nasty tomahawk slam that brought the 19,177 fans in attendance – the largest in crowed in O2 basketball history – to their feet.

Down 48-41 at halftime, Germany rallied in the third quarter and briefly took the lead.

The distinctly pro German crowd was loving their effort on both sides of the ball and loudly chanted, “DEFENSE, DEFENSE!” whenever the world champs needed a stop.

James was at his unreal best against Germany

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Team USA are looking to emulate Magic and MJ’s heroics in ’92

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Germany attacked and made big basket after big basket and Team USA found themselves down 68-71 heading into the fourth quarter.

Curry and Devin Booker came up with huge three-point plays to restore the American’s lead and then it was all about LeBron.

The 39-year-old King proved he’s still one of the best basketball players in the world by taking over in the fourth quarter with 11 points, a testament to his astonishing longevity.

The four-champion did a little bit of everything, rebounding, bringing the ball up up the court and getting timely buckets – just like his game-winning layup against South Sudan on Saturday with eight seconds remaining.

A pair of missed free throws didn’t derail his hot hand, and he hit a huge three to ice the game and reacted by reminding the sell-out crowed that ice courses through his veins.

James led Team USA with 20 points on 8-for-11 shooting, plus six rebounds and four assists in 20 minutes of action.

Joel Embiid scored 15 points while Anthony Davis and Edwards scored 11 and 10, respectively.

“It was a good test for us. And I’m glad we were able to once again, you know, keep our composure, persevere like we did the other day versus South Sudan,” James said. “It was a good win for us.”

Team USA will now head to Paris with the hopes of emulating what Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird achieved in 1992 with their all-conquering Dream Team.

Like Steve Kerr’s team, Chuck Daly’s Hall of Fame squad went undefeated in their Olympics warm ups – save for a practice defeat to a bunch of college kids – winning the Tournament of the Americas before landing in Barcelona, Spain.

That star-studded team, which also featured NBA MVPs Charles Barkley, Karl Malone and David Robinson, stomped on every team they faced in Olympic play, winning by an average margin of 44 points en route to the gold medal.

They were so dominant that they scored more than 100 points in every game (averaging 117.3 points per game) and never called a single timeout.

The Dream Team left an indelible mark on both basketball and the Olympics, and their legacy has only grown with the passage of time. They provided the inspiration for Kobe Bryant’s ’08 ‘Redeem Team’ and their impact is still felt on Team USA today.

Steve Kerr’s 2024 version shares many similarities with that team but the Golden State man thinks context is needed when comparing the vastly different rosters.

“I think from the standpoint of career achievement, this team is probably as decorated as any since the ’92 Dream Team,” Kerr told a room of reporters, including talkSPORT.

“The difference is in 1992, the world wasn’t anywhere close to as good as it is now in terms of basketball popularity and globalization of the game.”

“That USA team was never threatened, so the difference is that yes, we have a star-studded team filled with Hall of Famers, but we have an altogether different challenge with great teams like Serbia, France, Germany, and Spain, assuming Spain qualifies.

“This is an entirely different competition than it was in 1992.”

Kerr’s correct. The ‘92 team faced Angola in their first game and came up against the likes of Brazil, Germany and Spain, who were nowhere near the level they’re at today.

When LeBron, Curry and Durant land in the French capital this week, they will be facing much stiffer competition than what MJ, Bird and Magic ran into.

Familiar NBA stars like Victor Wembanyama (France), Josh Giddey (Australia), Jamal Murray (Canada), Dennis Schroder (Germany), Rui Hachimura (Japan), Bol Bol (South Sudan) and Bogdan Bogdanovic (Serbia) will do their best to spoil the US party, and are testament to the global nature of basketball and how far it’s come.

Nevertheless, Team USA are still overwhelming favorites to claim gold in France.

Their first group game of the 2024 Olympics will be against Nikola Jokic and Serbia on July 28.

They will finish their group stage with games against South Sudan on July 31 and Puerto Rico on August 3.

I played in the World Cup and made over 200 Premier League appearances, but my son could give me my proudest moment at the Olympics

Jackson Cole — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 21:23:51 +0000

talkSPORT’s Danny Mills has quite the football CV, but his son is building an impressive in a different sport.

Mills Sr represented England 19 times, including all five of England’s matches at the 2002 World Cup, and also boasts 321 club appearances to his name.

But his son’s sporting achievements will be under the microscope this summer

Instagram @dannymills77

But all those achievements could be eclipsed this summer, Mills said.

Mills’ son George is a successful middle-distance runner who will represent Team GB at the Olympics, competing in the 1,500m and 5,000m events.

Although, George nearly followed the same path as his father at a young age. Mills revealed his son was ‘half decent’ and could have made it, but his heart was with running.

“Running is great for football, but football isn’t great for running,” Mills said.

“If you wanna take running seriously you’re going to have to give up football. For a 14/15-year-old to go from a team sport to an individual sport is a big leap.”

Despite giving up the football, it didn’t mean George was going to get an easy ride off his father. Mills still made sure even on family holidays that George made it out for a run.

“I would try and sleep in,” George revealed. “But he would wait for me so I had to join him on his run. Even if I didn’t get up until 10 or 11 am.”

Despite the holiday exercise, George says his father’s encouragement and persistence gave him ‘the fundamentals of how to be a professional sportsman.’

Mills will be cheering his son on from the sidelines in Paris

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Having watched his son George and his other son, Stanley, who plays for Everton, play football numerous times, Mills revealed it’s easier to watch than athletics.

“Watching athletics is the worst on the planet,” Mills said.

“With football, if you make a mistake you’ll get another chance. If you miss an open goal, you’ll get another opportunity.

“Watching athletics is a little bit like watching a sudden death penalty shoot-out for about half an hour. It just goes on and on and on.

The whole Mills clan will show their support for George, who claimed silver at the European Athletics Championship in Rome in June

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“One mistake in a race and you’re done. You’ve got to get the tactics and positioning right.

“I’ve always been able to help him out psychologically. Being able to say let’s not get too carried away. Emotion is not great for sport, you need to be calm. We’ve gone through a lot this year in terms of qualification for both events at the Olympics.”

The former Manchester City player revealed the whole family will be out in Paris to watch George compete.

“We bought tickets back in January. We won’t see him during the Olympics, I know a lot of families will go see their athletes but we just leave him, he’s in the zone,” Mills said.

“We’ll share a few texts and have a chat from time to time. But they all know what they’re doing, you got yourself into this position now and just go and run. Give it everything you’ve got. Get through the heat, and if you do that we don’t have to sell our tickets for the semi-final.

Mills says the target is to reach a final, but perhaps he can take home a medal for GB

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Despite being a tough right-back for most of his career, Mills stated: “It’ll be one of the proudest moments in sport for me no matter what because of the individuality of it. I got to a certain level but it was a team game and we had some great times.

“To do it as an individual and I’ve said all along being a footballer is one of the best jobs in the world, but to achieve that standard as an athlete I think way surpasses what footballers do and go through.

“I will 100 per cent be the proudest person in that stadium if he makes the final.”

‘Show what he’s got’ – Bryson DeChambeau teases round of golf video with Donald Trump

Natasha Everitt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 20:04:51 +0000

Bryson Dechambeau has teased the release of a YouTube video of his round of golf with Donald Trump.

The American golfer failed to make the cut for the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon last weekend, alongside other big names Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.

DeChambeau and Trump have gone head-to-head on the fairway

Instagram:@brysondechambeau

But the 2024 US Open winner has now turned his attention back towards home – namely, the country’s upcoming presidential election.

Just three days after his Open nightmare, DeChambeau uploaded an Instagram post showing him standing next to Republican presidential candidate, Trump.

The pair are stood on a golf course, both with their arms folded across their chest in front of a hole.

Naturally, the hole is marked with an American flag.

“It’s time for @realdonaldtrump to show YouTube what he’s got,” the 30-year-old wrote as the caption.

DeChambeau’s ‘Break 50’ series on YouTube involves him trying to play nine holes in less than 50 strokes from the red tees – the furthest-forward tees on each hole – with a high-profile guest.

And Trump is currently dominating headlines around the globe, as he’s campaigning to win a second term as president of the United States.

He last served as president from January 2017 to January 2021.

DeChambeau won his second major on home turf last month

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The 45th president of the US had been up against current president, Joe Biden, this November. However, Biden withdrew his candidacy on Sunday, with the Democrat delegates now deciding who to endorse as the new candidate to run for the election.

Before his withdrawal, Biden and Trump faced off in a debate – and believe it or not, golf was brought up, with the pair bickering about each other’s golfing abilities.

It was then that California-born DeChambeau hatched the idea for his YouTube series – let Trump and Biden settle the debate by facing him.

Taking to X on Monday, the American clarified that his video with Trump was not a political endorsement and he’d asked both candidates from both parties to participate.

Trump is known to be a big fan of golf, and owns the Trump Turnberry course in Scotland

“Break 50 with @realDonaldTrump dropping tomorrow on my YouTube channel! On this special episode, we will be donating $10,000 to the Wounded Warrior Project for every stroke we score under par. Stay tuned,” he said.

In a second post, the LIV Golfer added: “To be clear, this is about golf and giving back to our nation’s veterans, not politics. A few weeks ago I reached out to both parties’ presidential campaigns and @realDonaldTrump was down for the challenge.

“It is an incredible honour to be able to enjoy a round of golf with any sitting or former president, and all have an open invitation to join me for a round of Break 50 anytime.”

DeChambeau wished Trump well after he was shot in the ear during an attempted assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania on July 13.

“Violence deserves no place in this world. Praying for President Trump and his family. Wishing for a speedy recovery,” he wrote on X.

Chelsea ‘rip up contract’ of forgotten man who played eight league games in four years on £100k-a-week

Natasha Everitt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:27:58 +0000

Chelsea defender Malang Sarr has been released by the club, according to reports.

The 25-year-old arrived at Stamford Bridge as a free agent following the end of his Nice contract in 2020, penning a five year deal.

Sarr is on his way out of Stamford Bridge

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That included wages of £100,000-per-week.

Sarr spent his first season out on loan with Porto, before signing for Monaco on a year-long deal.

He’s played just 21 games for Chelsea, eight of them in the Premier League, and scooped up a whopping £20.8million in the process – but he is now reported to be heading for the exit.

According to L’Equipe, Sarr is expected to sign for Ligue 1 outfit Lens.

He had one year left on his deal with Chelsea.

However, he now looks set to leave as a free agent.

Monaco had been given an option to buy when Sarr went on loan there in the 2022/23 season, but the French side decided not to go through with it.

A reported move to Le Havre in January fell through, with the French club’s director Mathieu Bodmer blaming Chelsea for the collapse of the deal.

Sarr was a promising 21-year-old when he arrived at Chelsea

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He said at the time: “What Chelsea did to Malang Sarr was disgraceful. With just a few details still to be worked out, they did a U-turn. They gave the youngster the go-ahead to travel, and a financial agreement had been reached for the 18 months of his remaining contract at Chelsea.

“However, on several occasions, they went back on their agreement, and then gave it again. And once the player had agreed to make a big effort, to come to us on a tiny salary, just to play football, they blocked him.

“Everything was OK, the contract had even been submitted to the league, but we never received Chelsea’s cancellation. In the end, they just told him he wouldn’t be leaving and they didn’t even answer the phone anymore.”

The Athletic also reported a source close to Sarr said they had ‘never seen him as low as this’ after that deal failed to materialise.

Sarr was a hit at Nice

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Meanwhile, talkSPORT understands Chelsea have decided to leave Trevoh Chalobah at home during the first team’s pre-season tour of the US.

The defender is one of the stars the Blues are willing to sell this summer amid interest from Crystal Palace.

Another homegrown talent, Conor Gallagher, has also been linked with moving on this summer, with talkSPORT reporting Atletico Madrid are keen on the midfielder earlier this month.

Chelsea are set to face Wrexham, Celtic Club America, Manchester City and Real Madrid in pre-season before facing the reigning Premier League champions in their opening match of the season.

Gervonta Davis targeting alternative fight after Vasyl Lomachenko collapse

George Glinski — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:18:57 +0000

Gervonta Davis is moving on from Vasyl Lomachenko.

The pair were deep in negotiations to square off this year in a WBA and IBF lightweight world title unification clash.

GETTYLomachenko ‘lacks the motivation’ to box again this year[/caption]

It is understood that talks between Bob Arum‘s Top Rank (who promote Lomachenko) and Al Haymon’s PBC (who represent Davis) were progressing well for a November fight date.

However, the Ukrainian slickster has opted to take some time out of boxing and won’t return to the ring until 2025.

Davis’ team was understandably taken aback by Lomachenko’s response, who has always sought the biggest fights possible during his 21-fight (18-3) pro career.

But instead of sitting around and waiting for Loma, Davis’ co-trainer Kenny Ellis has indicated that they may target a fight with WBC champion Shakur Stevenson next.

Speaking to Mill City Boxing, he said: “He [Loma] is straight ducking… Hopefully, Shakur won’t duck.

“They keep saying that Tank is ducking Shakur, let’s see. Him and Lomachenko are the only ones left.”

Asked what Davis would do if a fight with Stevenson or Lomachenko can’t be made by next year, Ellis added: “It’s up to Tank and what he wants to do but he might retire.

“If he does I support that, whatever he does I’ll support it. If he said let’s get the next one, I’ll support it.”

Tanks’ team have turned their attention to Stevenson now

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This comes after Lomachenko’s manager told boxing reporter Steve Kim: “Loma is not in the mood right now.

“He doesn’t have the motivation at the moment. He’s taking off, he wants to spend more time with the family.

“He doesn’t want to do anything until the end of the year. So he’s definitely not coming to the ring until the end of the year…

“With Loma, just money is not what motivates him. He doesn’t take anything just because of money.

“You can offer him millions, tens of millions of dollars – if he doesn’t have motivation, he’s not ready to prepare for the fight.”

Besides Stevenson, William Zepeda and a rematch with Isaac Cruz are also said to be potential options for Davis.

However, Zepeda – who is currently ranked No.1 by all four major sanctioning bodies at 135lbs – is expected to go down the WBO route and challenge their champion Denis Berinchyk next.

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Terence Crawford had heavyweight sparring partner on ‘wobbly legs’ in warning to Canelo Alvarez

George Glinski — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:10:14 +0000

A super fight between Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez is at the top of Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh’s boxing wish list.

The blockbuster showdown would see Crawford, who is set to make his super welterweight debut on August 3 against WBA champion Israil Madrimov, move up two more weight classes to super middleweight.

Crawford has 31 knockouts from 40 wins (40-0)

Mikey Williams/Top Rank

Several members of the boxing fraternity believe it would be a step too far for the former undisputed super-lightweight and welterweight king.

But WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson insists ‘Bud’ is more than capable of carrying his devastating knockout power up through the weights after witnessing him wobble a heavyweight in sparring.

“Honestly, I think that ‘Bud’ beats anybody who he gets in the ring with, even at a higher weight class,” he told ES N EWS.

“I think he’s got all the tools and ability to beat anybody and everybody.

“He’s got punching power, boxing IQ, boxing skills and footwork.

“There’s nothing he can’t do in the ring, so I think he’d be a hard task for anybody.

“Another thing, his punching power translates to another weight class.

“I’ve been in the gym and seen him hurt a heavyweight, a 200lbs plus dude.

Canelo vs Crawford is being targeted for late this year/early next year

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“He hurt him and he was in there with wobbly legs. I was like damn this motherf****** can punch that hard.”

HE Alalshikh is aiming to stage Crawford vs Canelo in either December or January in the United States.

The proposed date falls perfectly between Canelo‘s usual Cinco de Mayo weekend (May) and Mexican Independence Day (September) slots.

Canelo is expected to return to the ring on September 14 with Edgar Berlanga and Chris Eubank Jr named as potential foes.

Eubank Jr was originally the frontrunner to duke it out with Canelo.

However, that fight is now in doubt after Hearn, who had shown an interest in signing ‘Next Gen’ before he joined BOXXER’s stable, told Seconds Out: “We had a conversation, not myself but Frank Smith has been speaking to the team.

“As I understand it, he wanted two sort of gimme fights to come back to.

“He’s been inactive for a long time, out for a year. I don’t know where they’re up to with the Canelo stuff. It doesn’t sound to me like that’s happening, but who knows.”

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Harry Kane to miss pre-season reunion clash against Tottenham with Bayern Munich

Natasha Everitt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 18:07:08 +0000

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has confirmed Harry Kane will not be available for their pre-season clash against Tottenham.

The England captain left Spurs for the Bundesliga giants last summer, signing in a deal that could go up to £100million.

Kane did not look comfortable at Euro 2024 – now he’s missing Bayern’s pre-season clash

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He went on to have a stunning debut campaign personally in Germany despite Bayern finishing third in the league.

He won the Bundesliga Golden Boot with 36 league goals and scored a whopping 44 times in 46 games in all competitions.

Kane then went on to net three goals for the Three Lions at Euro 2024, but having injured his back before the tournament, the striker was unfit and lacked his usual sharpness.

Now, Kompany has confirmed Kane will miss the opportunity to face Spurs in Seoul on August 3 as part of the Coupang Player series, as he provided team news ahead of the clash.

Speaking to the media on Monday, he said: “Harry Kane, Alphonso Davies, Dayot Upamecano and Kingsley Coman won’t be there, but then hopefully for the first cup game.”

Kane may have another opportunity to face his former club this summer though – and this time it will be at his old stomping ground, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Tottenham host Bayern on August 10 in a friendly clash.

It would mark the first time Kane has played in front of a Spurs home crowd since his final game there in April last year.

Kane has another chance to play his former club

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However, Kompany’s comments suggest Bayern will prioritise ensuring Kane is available for their DFB-Pokal tie against Bundesliga 2 side Ulm.

The 30-year-old fired his way to being the club’s all-time top scorer during his 19 years at the club.

Kane – who spent the latter part of his youth career at Spurs – netted 280 goals in 435 appearances in all competitions for the first team.

Bayern’s season gets back underway on August 16, as the German outfit take on SSV Ulm in the first round of the DFB Cup – and Kane will be looking to get back to his usual self on the pitch.

When asked if his back injury had an impact on his performances for England, Kane told BBC 5 Live after the loss to Spain: “No, it’s not time to talk about personal things.

“The tournament plays out in different situations. You deal with a lot as a player throughout these tournaments.

“Everyone is dealing with issues and you’re at your maximum physical capabilities and it was just the way the game panned out today and the way the tournament’s gone.”

Dan Brown surprised himself with after party as he celebrated The Open prize money

Robert Calcutt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:51:29 +0000

Dan Brown admits that his celebrations were quite ‘tame’ despite finishing in the top ten on his debut at The Open.

The 29-year-old put himself in surprise contention for glory when he headed into the final round in second and one shot off the lead.

Brown enjoyed a very strong major debut in tough conditions at The Open

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Although he didn’t go all the way, with Xander Schauffele the man to take the crown, Brown finished level on par and tied for tenth with Matthew Jordan and Adam Scott.

Not long after he finished his final hole, the Yorkshireman revealed his plans to celebrate by saying: “I can get on the drink now.”

And while he most certainly revelled in his success, he revealed to talkSPORT that it wasn’t exactly a wild night.

“There were a few beers,” he said when appearing on Hawksbee and Jacobs on Monday.

“To be honest I actually kept it quite tame, tamer than I thought it was going to be anyway. Just had a couple of glasses of red wine, a couple of beers and then that was it.”

Brown earned an impressive £246,000 in winnings from his result, the biggest pay cheque of his career to date, with seven-and-a-half per cent going to his caddie and brother Ben.

His finish in the top ten has also secured him an exemption for next year’s Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.

Despite a strong finish on the third day he struggled on the front nine on Sunday, but seemingly used a return to the tournament in 2025 as motivation to get over the line.

Brown was on hand to finish in the top ten but kept his celebrations tame

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He will return for a second shot at The Open next summer

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“After I had a bit of a poor front nine, that was kind of the thing that I was looking towards. It was just making sure I finish top ten really, obviously knowing that it would get me into next year’s event,” Brown said.

“I knew going down the last nine I could afford to make a bogey and still finish top ten so yeah, very pleased that I’ll be back again next year.”

Given it was his first appearance at a major, it’s unsurprising to think that many golf fans wouldn’t know too much about Brown.

However, he’s hoping his performance at the weekend can turn any doubters into believers as he builds upon his Open success.

“From my point of view, I think a lot of people probably wrote me off. But I did feel like, certainly after two or three days, that I could go and win,” Brown said.

“Obviously it didn’t materialise that way but yeah a lot of confidence and hopefully people can take me a little bit more seriously now.”

Chelsea leave Trevoh Chalobah out of pre-season squad for USA tour amid uncertainty on defender’s future

Jackson Cole — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:36:20 +0000

Trevoh Chalobah has been left out of Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the USA, talkSPORT understands.

The defender is one of the players Chelsea are willing to sell this summer and has interest from Crystal Palace.

Chalobah will remain at Cobham while his teammates are Stateside

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Chelsea have numerous players on their books with fellow centre-backs Wesley Fofana, Axel Disasi and summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo all getting the nod for Stateside.

It’s understood that the decision to leave Chalobah at home not taken lightly by the club.

But it’s a decision that’s not gone down well with Chelsea fans, including talkSPORT’s Rory Jennings.

Reacting to the news, Jennings said on Transfer Insiders: “They’ve omitted Chalobah from the pre-season squad, he deserves so much more respect than that.

“They should show him a level of respect that doesn’t mean he just gets omitted from the squad.

“I like Trevoh Chalobah, I love how he’s come through the academy at Cobham… but even if you remove any sentimentality he is the best centre-back at the club.”

Chalobah has been on Chelsea’s books for 17 years having joined them aged eight.

After signing a professional contract in 2018, Chalobah had to wait three years for his senior Blues debut having been loaned out on three separate occasions.

Chalobah is contracted at Chelsea for another four years but isn’t in the plans of new manager Enzo Maresca

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His first appearance saw him win a trophy as he helped Chelsea to Super Cup glory as they beat Villarreal in the final.

Although he’s failed to establish himself as a consistent starter for Chelsea, Chalobah has previously attracted interest from Bayern Munich and West Ham.

The 25-year-old is currently contracted at Chelsea until 2028 having signed a new long-term deal in November 2022, which makes him tougher to offload.

Chelsea’s tour of the States sees them face Wrexham in the early hours of Thursday morning before taking on Celtic on Saturday evening.

They then have a showdown against Mexican outfit Club America on August 1 before locking horns with Manchester City on Saturday August 3. Chelsea later face Real Madrid (August 7) and then travel back to Blighty, where they will face Inter Milan on August 11.

The west London club begin their Premier League campaign with a trip to reigning champions Manchester City on Sunday August 18.

Greatest UFC head kick KOs ranked from Leon Edwards last-gasp roundhouse to scary spinning hook kick

George Glinski — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:01:50 +0000

Leon Edwards scored a brutal head kick KO win over Kamaru Usman in 2022 to pick up the UFC welterweight strap.

‘Rocky’ will be hoping for another highlight reel finish when he defends his 170lbs crown for a second time on July 28 against Belal Muhammad at UFC 304 in Manchester.

Edwards won his UFC welterweight title in brutal fashion

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There has been plenty of verbal jabs traded in the build-up so a vicious stoppage would be the icing on the cake for the Brit.

With Edwards’ title defence only a matter of days away at the time of writing, talkSPORT.com takes a look back at his iconic roundhouse KO as well as some other contenders for the greatest head kick KO in UFC history.

5. Gabriel Gonzaga vs Mirko Cro Cop

During the early to mid-2000s, Mirko Cro Cop was one of the most feared men on the planet.

The Croatian powerhouse built up a highlight reel of vicious head kick knockouts.

But the tables turned when he met Gabriel Gonzaga in 2007.

Few gave the Brazilian MMA star any chance of victory against the Pride 2006 open-weight tournament winner.

But Gonzaga upset the odds by uncorking a massive head kick of his own in the opening stanza that sent Cro Cop down and out.

Gonzaga’s stunning upset win was rated the 2007 Knockout of the Year and led to him landing a shot against Randy Couture for the UFC heavyweight title four months later.

He lost that bout via third-round TKO and suffered the exact same fate when he rematched Miocic seven years later.

4. Leon Edwards vs Kamaru Usman

Edwards’ last-gasp knockout win over Usman is one of the most dramatic finishes to a UFC title fight in the history of the sport.

The Brummie headed into the fifth and final round down 3-1 on the judges’ scorecards and needed a stoppage to win the fight.

With 51 seconds left on the clock, Edwards faked a left straight, which Usman attempted to slip, and followed up with a perfectly timed high kick that flatlined the long-reigning welterweight champion.

3. Uriah Hall vs Adam Cella

Hall’s spinning hook kick KO over Cella is arguably the best stoppage win to come out of the Ultimate Fighter series.

The pair met in 2012 during the preliminary round of TUF 17 when Jon Jones and Chael Sonnen were coaches.

Cella had got off to a confident start, bringing the fight to Hall from the opening bell.

However, he was dispatched in the final few seconds of the first round by a KO, which UFC President Dana White would go on to describe as: “One of the nastiest knockouts I’ve ever seen in the fight business, let alone on the Ultimate Fighter.”

2. Edson Barboza vs Terry Etim

In the same year that Hall KOd Cella, Barboza landed a hellish spinning wheel kick that left Etim flat on his back.

Up until the eventual finish, Etim and Barboza had gone toe to toe in a brilliant stand-up battle.

But the Brazilian stole the show with an explosive kick that connected perfectly on the heel.

Reflecting on the ten-year anniversary back in 2022, he said: “It’s crazy. I looked behind like ‘Wow’, that’s ten years. It not only makes me think about the fight but also about life.

“I know one day it will be over. It makes me think about it and enjoy every moment.

“I was very happy, one more knockout, the fight is over. After that, I thought it was really going to change my life.

“That knockout really changed my life, no one really remembers Edson Barboza, but if you say that guy with the spinning kick they say ‘oh, I know’. It really changed my life.”

1. Joaquin Buckley vs Impa Kasanganay

Buckley is now regarded as one of the most devastating finishers in the UFC. But when he met Kasanganay few knew much about his potential.

Buckley had been knocked out by Kevin Holland in his UFC debut in August 2020 and entered his fight with Kasanganay in desperate need of a win two months later.

Luckily for him, he pulled off what many members of the MMA fraternity regard as the knockout of the decade so far.

In the second round, Buckley threw a head kick which was caught by Kasanganay.

As the Florida striker attempted to parry the kick away, Buckley twisted around and landed a beautiful spinning back-kick that caused Kasanganay to pause in the air for a moment before plummeting to the canvas.

‘Stop trying to sound tough’ – Michael Bisping rips into Jake Paul to reignite feud after Conor McGregor ‘little leprechaun’ insult

Ben Davies — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 16:41:49 +0000

Michael Bisping is not best pleased with Jake Paul after he took aim at Conor McGregor.

Paul defeated BKFC star Mike Perry by a brutal KO in his latest boxing fight, and McGregor took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to ‘fire’ the American from the promotion he recently acquired a stake in.

Esther Lin / MVPPaul took his opportunity to mock McGregor after his recent win[/caption]

The ‘Problem Child’ then stuck up for his rival after his supposed sacking, insisting that McGregor ducked a fight with him.

He tweeted: “1) Mike Perry is a f****** beast and has a lot more balls than that little leprechaun.

“2) Where all those MMA experts at that said Mike Perry was going to end me?”

Former UFC champion Bisping took exception to Paul’s words and was unhappy with his criticism of McGregor.

He said on X: “The ‘little leprechaun’ [very original by the way] is one of the greatest fighters the UFC has ever seen.

“But he also won the featherweight title. Do your thing.

“But please for f*** sake stop trying to sound tough.

“Fight a boxer d****** or at least someone your size bully boy.”

Bisping has defended MMA fighters against Paul’s claims for several years

Getty

After leaping to the defence of McGregor, Bisping went on to criticise Paul for matching himself against Perry.

He added on his YouTube channel: “Coming into this fight, I think myself, the whole fight community, everyone was behind Mike Perry, but the reality was he was too small.

“There are weight classes in boxing, in combat sports for a reason. Jake Paul was about twice the size of him.

“The weight difference is going to be insane. Well done Jake Paul if that’s what you want to see. That was a farce.

“That was ridiculous. That fight should never have even taken place in the first place because it was a s*** show.”

Bisping and Paul have feuded for several years, with ‘The Count’ critical of the YouTube star’s boxing career.

The British star even contemplated coming out of retirement himself to face Paul in the boxing ring.

He even sought out licensing for the contest, but a settling of their online feud was never realistic.

Boxing WhatsApp channel

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I was paid £7,000 to appear in GOAL and took my family to watch – then I found out they cut my scene from the film

Natasha Everitt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 16:11:14 +0000

Jamie O’Hara was today years old when he found out his former Wolves boss Dean Saunders was cast in the film GOAL.

Monday’s talkSPORT Breakfast hosts were cracking up as they listened to pal Gabby Agbonlahor putting on an American accent for one of the station’s adverts during the show.

Saunders was cast in GOAL before he started his managerial career

GETTY

But unbeknown to O’Hara, Agbonlahor isn’t the only one to have tried his hand at acting, as it turns out Saunders has been handed a few acting gigs himself – including in 2005’s popular football film GOAL.

When asked by Breakfast co-host Jamie O’Hara whether he’d done any acting, Saunders said: “I was in a few films Jamie.”

When the former Tottenham star looked shocked by this, he continued: “I was in GOAL! The film GOAL. Remember GOAL? I was in it!

“I got paid and everything.”

“I was like a coach,” he added.

Unfortunately for Saunders, though, it turns out that despite getting paid a fine sum to be in the movie, his part never made the final cut.

He continued: “Did you ever watch Billy Elliot? The film about the young lad who’s a ballet dancer? His dad in that film [actor Gary Lewis] was in GOAL and he was one of the coaches.

“I was stood next to him in the classroom when the manager was walking round the classroom talking to the players and saying, ‘we’re going to do this’.

Saunders left his co-host stunned when he told him about his acting experience

talkSPORT

“I was stood there, I didn’t have a speaking part.

“I got £7,000 and they cut the scene out the picture! I was devastated!”

David Beckham and Alan Shearer were among the famous faces in football to feature in the film – but Saunders learnt that Showbiz is a tough business

Milkshake Films

At this point, O’Hara was cracking up.

“I told all my family I was in the film!” Saunders laughed. “Then when we got there I said ‘it’ll be on in a minute, don’t worry, my bit’s on in a minute’.

“But they cut it out! But I got seven grand.”

Saunders left any possible acting career behind three years later in 2008 when he became manager of Wrexham, who had just began what would prove to be 15-year stint in non-league.

He went on to manage Doncaster, Wolves, Crawley and Chesterfield.

2024 Paris Olympics offer: Bet £10 and get £30 in free bets with VBet

Will Stanley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:59:29 +0000

The 2024 Paris Olympics get underway this week, with the opening ceremony taking place on Friday night.

VBet are offering all customers £30 in free bets when they bet £10 on any of the action this summer, an offer which can be claimed by clicking this link*.

vbetNew customers can get £30 in free bets when they bet £10 on the Euros this summer.[/caption]

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329 events will take place across the next two and a half weeks as the best athletes around the world from 32 different sports congregate to take part in the Summer Olympics in Paris.

The action will get underway on Wednesday afternoon with the opening round of matches from the men’s football event and the men’s rugby sevens pool stage action.

The opening ceremony will take place on Friday evening and which will signal the proper start to the action, which will see action from 24 sports take place on Saturday, with 14 opening day gold medals up for grabs.

327 athletes will be representing Team GB at the 2024 Olympics, which makes Great Britain ninth in the list of countries with most participants, with the USA leading the way with 592 competitors.

In hosting this summer’s Games, Paris becomes the second city, after London, to have hosted the Summer Olympics three times, and will also see breakdancing, or breaking, make its Olympic debut as an event.

How to watch the 2024 Paris Olympics

Location: Paris, France
Date and time: Wednesday 24th July – Sunday 11th August 2024
How to watch: BBC, discovery+

VBET: Bet £10 Get £30 In Free Bets – CLAIM HERE*

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LeBron James delivered heartfelt message to inspire young athletes before he was named to carry USA flag in Olympics Opening Ceremonies

Brian T. Smith — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:38:21 +0000

Before LeBron James made more history, he offered free advice.

James was named on Monday as the USA’s flag-bearer for the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony.

GettyLeBron James tried to help the next generation of basketball players[/caption]

The unique event will be held Friday on the River Seine in Paris.

Two days before James was announced as the first men’s basketball player to carry the flag for Team USA, he was asked about the advice he would give to young athletes who are trying to increase their confidence playing the sport.

The NBA‘s all-time leading scorer and a 20-time All-Star said that “work” has been at the core of everything that he’s been able to accomplish in a career that will certainly end up in the Hall of Fame.

James rivals Michael Jordan as the greatest player in league history.

On Saturday, head coach Steve Kerr turned to the 39-year-old forward to lead Team USA past South Sudan 101-100 in the final seconds.

James was also a big hit with fans inside a packed 02 arena.

“When it comes to confidence, I think there’s no substitution for the work,” James said in London.

“You just have to put the work in. If the sport of basketball is what you want to do and you have a passion for it. You love it.

talksportJames gave a heartfelt answer after the USA beat South Sudan[/caption]

GettyThe king of the NBA hit the game-winning shot and enjoyed flexing[/caption]

“You have to put the work in. Find ways to play the game, find ways to train, find ways to get better.

“Watch the game, study the game, and I think it all pays off. When you give to the game, the game automatically gives to you.”

The king of the NBA said he strongly believes that if someone wants to play basketball for a living, they must fully subscribe to the process.

“I love this and it’s something I want to do,” James said. “I think it’s all about the work.”

James proved those words true on Saturday, scoring a game-high 25 points on 10-of-14 shooting and sinking the game-winner via a driving layup with eight seconds remaining.

“He’s just got such an incredible competitive spirit and confidence in the clutch,” Kerr exclusively told talkSPORT.

James entered the NBA in 2003 as a No. 1 overall pick out of high school and was dubbed the Chosen One.

He’ll be participating in his fourth Olympics and is aiming for his third gold medal, which would surpass the two that Jordan won.

Before James returns to the hardwood in France, he’ll carry the flag for Team USA to start the 2024 Olympics.

“It’s an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together,” James said.

“For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything to not only myself, but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians and so many people across the country with big aspirations.

“Sports have the power to bring us all together, and I’m proud to be a part of this important moment.”

Fit to lead

The moment LeBron James found out he will be the first #USABMNT athlete to serve as a @TeamUSA Flag Bearer. pic.twitter.com/kEWK45BBQH
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) July 22, 2024

Rory McIlroy was in crazy seven-way play-off for bronze after Olympics U-turn and has great memories of Paris venue as he eyes gold

Marc Williams — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:35:01 +0000

Rory McIlroy was infamously not a fan of Olympic golf but will now be eyeing gold in Paris after just missing out on a medal last time around.

After pulling out of the 2016 Rio Games, McIlroy said golf did not ‘matter’ at the Olympics and he wouldn’t be tuning into the action in Brazil.

McIlroy will be eyeing gold for Ireland this summer

Getty

Four years later, he had performed a stunning U-turn before saying he had ‘never tried so hard to finish third’ after narrowly missing out on a bronze medal in Tokyo.

McIlroy will be donning the Irish green alongside great friend Shane Lowry at the upcoming Paris Olympics and will be eager to top the podium after a difficult year.

McIlroy let the Masters and PGA Championship past him by in the spring, before suffering heartbreak at the US Open and then missing the cut completely at the recent Open.

It’s been a tumultuous season for the 35-year-old from County Down but he now heads back to Olympics with some great memories to call upon.

As Open champion Xander Schauffele claimed gold in Tokyo three years ago, McIlroy was involved in a crazy seven-way battle for bronze.

Hideki Matsuyama and Team GB’s Paul Casey stumbled in the first hole of the play-off before McIlroy, Sebastian Munoz and Mito Pereira were all eliminated on the third extra hole.

McIlroy enjoyed a brilliant week at Le Golf National in the 2018 Ryder Cup

Getty Images - Getty

And as Collin Morikawa bowed out on the fourth hole of the bronze medal play-off, CT Pan of Chinese Taipei claimed third.

After his near-miss, a pumped-up McIlroy said: “It makes me even more determined going to Paris and try to pick a medal up. It’s disappointing going away from here without any hardware. I’ve been saying all day I never tried so hard in my life to finish third.

“It has been a great experience, today was a great day to be up there in contention for a medal, certainly had a different feeling to it than I expected.

“As I said, I’m already looking forward to three years’ time and trying to go at least one better but hopefully three better.

“I made some comments before that were probably uneducated and impulsive, but coming here experiencing it, seeing, feeling everything that goes on, not just Olympic golf but just the Olympics in general, that sort of Olympic spirit’s definitely bitten me and I’m excited how this week’s turned out and excited for the future.”

McIlroy was not a fan of Olympic golf but loved his time in Tokyo

Getty

As well as defending champion and Schauffele, golf superstars Morikawa, Scottie Scheffler, Ludvig Aberg, Viktor Hovland and Jon Rahm will also be teeing it up in Paris.

Team GB are set to be represented by Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick this year.

McIlroy, of course, will also be among the favourites to win gold in a stacked field for the men’s event.

And while his competition may be fierce, he has some great memories to call upon at the French venue – Le Golf National.

McIlroy was a key part of the European team that demolished the USA in the 2018 Ryder Cup.

He played all five matches at the event, showcased some brilliant golf around the tricky course, and was involved in one of the best singles matches of all time in his 18th-hole defeat to Justin Thomas.

He’ll return to Guyancourt hoping to replicate some of his fine play from 2018 and will be buoyed by having Lowry alongside him.

McIlroy had a tournament to forget at The Open recently

The duo won the Zurich Classic of New Orleans together in April and Lowry, who starred at The Open in Royal Troon last weekend, is excited to team up with again.

Lowry said: “It’s great to be going back there with Rory. My first experience in Tokyo was amazing and it feeds you with the hunger of wanting to do it again and to come back and give it a better shot this time.

“A lot of what I’ve talked about and done this year has been geared towards the Olympics in Paris. I have always said that I’d love to bring a medal back to Ireland, and that’s my number one goal.”

Ireland have a great chance of medalling in the golf in Paris and it would mark quite the turnaround for McIlroy should it be him taking home the gold.

The Olympics are on talkSPORT this summer, and you can tune in via our free online streaming service at talkSPORT.com

Fans hail Logan Paul for ‘best ever line’ as he jabs at SummerSlam rival ahead title match

Matty Paddock — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:23:30 +0000

Logan Paul faces LA Knight at WWE SummerSlam next month having again impressed fans with a build-up promo on SmackDown.

‘The Maverick’ is currently the longest-serving champion WWE and continues to improve in every aspect of his development.

Logan Paul wrestles in his some state next month at WWE SummerSlam

WWE

While not wrestling night in, night out for the company just yet, the influencer turned grappler has certainly invested time in his run with WWE since signing a new contract.

A regular feature on television most weeks, he belies his relative inexperience in terms years under his belt when it comes to promoting his own bouts.

While being unquestionably talented when it comes to the gruelling physical techniques involved with being a professional wrestler, it’s his blossoming on the other side of the business that continues to win over fans.

Aided by playing a ‘heel’ role – that of an on-screen bad guy, Paul is able to lean into his natural cockiness and charisma, just as he did during an in-ring exchange with Knight on Friday’s episode of the blue brand show.

The two combatants convened in the ring and finally signed the ‘contract’ for their upcoming match at SummerSlam for the 29-year-old’s United States Championship.

With no real physicality involved barring near-miss of a scuffle after their verbal joust, it was down to their words to do carry the weight of building the match.

And while Knight – also naturally very charismatic – fared very well, claiming he’d ‘owned and cooked’ the upstart, it was Paul who’d set social media alight with a jibe to his opponent.

Pulling on an oft-criticism of Knight that his act too closely resembles that of Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson at his WWE peak, the champ blasted: “You are a gym bro, with a spray tan and a catchphrase, pretending to be The Rock.”

Paul and SummerSlam rival LA Knight faced off ahead of their encounter

WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes will main event SummerSlam against Solo Sikoa

WWE

That got the reaction you’d expect live in the arena – and from Knight – but it also proved a hit on social media, with one fan on X saying it was the star’s ‘best promo’ in WWE.

Another added: “Logan’s ability to blend humour with bravado is a testament to how far he’s come in the wrestling world.”

A third commented: “The number one priority of the company WWE from here on out should be push Logan Paul to the moon, this promo alone was enough to see he’s it.”

One user even expects Knight to snare the US title from Paul when they meet, in favour of the latter moving on to bigger and better things in WWE, saying: “Logan Paul is great in the ring and great on the mic too. He’s gonna drop the title to knight but I’m ready for him to wrestle Rollins, Gunther, McIntyre.”

Logan Paul just cut the promo of his WWE career against LA Knight.

“You are a gym bro, with a spray and a catchphrase, pretending to be The Rock.”

Logan COOKED tonight. #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/w9bkWfcday
— PW Chronicle (@_PWChronicle) July 20, 2024

SummerSlam this year comes from Paul’s home state of Cleveland, Ohio as WWE takes over the Cleveland Browns Stadium.

Also billed for the show is a long-awaited match for the Women’s World Championship between Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan.

Gunther steps up to World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest, while Cody Rhodes faces Solo Sikoa for the Undisputed WWE title.

Also on the line will be the WWE Women’s Championship as Bayley defends against Nia Jax.

Olympics betting offer: Bet £10 and get £30 in free bets with talkSPORT BET

Will Stanley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:21:47 +0000

The 2024 Summer Olympics get underway on Wednesday, with the opening ceremony taking place on Friday night.

talkSPORT BET are offering new customers £30 in free bets when they bet £10 on any Olympics action over the next three weeks, which can be claimed by clicking this link*.

Bet £10 on the Olympics and get £30 in free bets with talkSPORT BET

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329 events will take place across the next two and a half weeks as the best athletes around the world from 32 different sports congregate to take part in the Summer Olympics in Paris.

The action will get underway on Wednesday afternoon with the opening round of matches from the men’s football event and the men’s rugby sevens pool stage action.

327 athletes will be representing Team GB at the 2024 Olympics, which makes Great Britain ninth in the list of countries with most participants, with the USA leading the way with 592 competitors.

How to watch the 2024 Paris Olympics

Location: Paris, France
Date and time: Wednesday 24th July – Sunday 11th August 2024
How to watch: BBC, discovery+

talkSPORT BET: Bet £10 on the Olympics and get £30 in free bets – CLAIM HERE*

talkSPORT BET Offer

Sign Up Offer: Bet £10 Get £30 In Free Bets – CLAIM HERE

T&Cs: 18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10+ via mobile on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments & Apple Pay only. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. TandCs apply. Begambleaware.org

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‘Is he having a laugh?’ – Jamie O’Hara slams Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag for huge claim

Martha Riley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:57:58 +0000

Jamie O’Hara scoffed at Erik ten Hag’s bold claims about his impact at Manchester United.

In a recent interview, the Red Devils manager argued that he should be considered second only to Manchester City‘s Pep Guardiola in terms of his success in English football since he arrived at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag believes that his achievements since joining Man United have only been bettered by Guardiola

Getty

The Dutch coach, who recently signed a one-year contract extension at the club, claimed that, based on silverware, he has come closest to challenging the Spanish coach in his two years at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag has won two trophies since taking charge of Man United in 2022, including last season’s FA Cup, the second most of any coach in England after Guardiola, who has lifted four in this time.

He told The Times: “Of course [I feel stronger]. This club didn’t win trophies, before I came, for six years.

“In two years, after Guardiola, we won the most trophies in English football. So we are in a strong position.”

While the 54-year-old admitted there remains much work to be done to turn his team into title contenders, he also highlighted United’s victories over their rivals during his tenure.

He added: “Look, we can beat every opponent. Not one time, more than one time against City and also against Liverpool.”

But Jamie O’Hara was less than impressed by the Dutchman’s reasoning here, as he slammed the suggestion whilst appearing on talkSPORT Breakfast alongside Shebahn Aherne and Dean Saunders,

After Aherne informed him of Ten Hag’s comments, the talkSPORT host appeared incredulous, responding: “Oh, come on, Shebahn!

Ten Hag was victorious over Guardiola in the FA Cup final, who is the only manager in English football with more titles in the last two years

Richard Pelham / The Sun

GettyThe FA Cup triumph is believed to have helped Ten Hag to secure his future at Man United, having appeared destined for the exit door before the final[/caption]

“I mean, we’ve got to start all this again with Man United? He’s done alright. He’s won some trophies.

“They’re Man United. They’ve spent about £800million. So they’re entitled to win some!”

The former Tottenham and Wolves midfielder continued to blast Ten Hag’s comments, adding: “Is he having a laugh?

“They finished eighth didn’t they last season? It was the worst season they’ve ever had in Premier League history.”

Aherne attempted to reason with O’Hara by pointing to Man City’s heavy investment in their squad, before emphasising United’s FA Cup success, but he remained unsympathetic.

Rejecting his co-host’s rationale, he asked: “Have you seen the way Manchester City play? And they win the league every season, for the last four seasons.”

O’Hara then played down the FA Cup victory, adding: “Arsenal won the FA Cup, you know. Wigan won the FA Cup, didn’t they?

“It doesn’t make you a great [team]. Come on!”

O’Hara put his head in his heads and laughed as he was told of ten Hag’s claim

While Saunders admitted that there was truth in Ten Hag’s claims, he agreed with O’Hara’s concerns: “Factually, he’s probably correct.

“But we’ve watched them play and they were shocking at times, and in chaos.

“And a lot of their players are picking their wages up without putting the effort in. It’s not all his fault, by the way.”

O’Hara also pointed to the question marks surrounding Marcus Rashford’s future at the club, and the turbulent relationship between Ten Hag and returning winger Jadon Sancho among the other issues which could hamper United going forward.

He remarked: “I still think he’s got loads of problems there for this season. Loads of problems.

“Rashford– that’s a massive problem for them. Jadon Sancho‘s an issue. You’ve got players there with no legs in midfield.”

Despite O’Hara’s comments, Aherne felt that the signing of young players Joshua Zirkzee and Lenny Yoro, above, were encouraging signs for the Red Devils

Getty

Despite O’Hara being quick to shut down the Red Devils boss’ comments, Aherne argued that fans of 20-time English champions can still feel optimistic about the club’s long-term future.

Pointing to their recent transfer activity, the talkSPORT presenter said: “[Joshua] Zirkzee’s signed and Lenny Yoro’s signed and they’re both young players.

“But they are talking about maybe another four or five transfer windows, that’s when you’ll see the project start to come to fruition.”

“It’s not going to happen this window, obviously.”

Dan Brown secured young brother nice payday with prize money for top ten finish and now has place at 2025 Open thanks to rule

Robert Calcutt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:57:00 +0000

Dan Brown’s family will be in a celebratory mood following his impressive weekend at The Open.

Xander Schauffele lifted the Claret Jug at Royal Troon on Sunday but his victory was just one of the top stories from the tournament.

Brown impressed at his first Open by finishing in the top ten

Getty

Brown put himself in shock contention to win when he ended the third round tied in second and one shot off the lead.

The Yorkshireman, who was also spotted smoking cigarettes during rounds, was unable to go all the way but still did enough to ensure his visit to Scotland ended in success.

He impressed on the back nine to finish level par and tied for tenth alongside fellow Brit Matthew Jordan and Australian Adam Scott.

A top ten finish is a huge achievement in it’s own right but it has also secured him another chance for glory in a year’s time.

Rules dictate that top ten finishers qualify for the next Open, so Brown will return in 2025 at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.

The 29-year-old’s £246,000 winnings for his 2024 finish are the biggest of his career so far, while his younger brother Ben served as his caddie and as a result, has earned himself a seven-and-a-half per cent cut of the winnings – it would have been ten if he’d won.

“He’s getting a nice little payday,” Brown said. “Not too bad for a 19-year-old lad.”

His brother and caddie Ben also earned himself a nice pay cheque from the weekend

Getty

Brown was close to falling outside of the top ten on Sunday having struggled in the first eight holes before pulling off his comeback.

“At the minute it’s probably a little bit more disappointment,” he said afterwards. “But when I reflect on it, I’ll be very pleased, I would have thought.

“If you would have told me that [he would finish in the top ten] at the start of the week, obviously I would have been very pleased. Portrush was in my head a little bit towards the back nine.

“Obviously I took myself out of contention quite early, so that was playing on my mind a little bit. But it still didn’t really affect me in terms of hitting shots.”

Brown finished nine off champion Schauffele, with the American securing the second major title of his career following his PGA Championship win earlier this year.

Betting offer: Get £20 in free bets with Paddy Power

Will Stanley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:48:52 +0000

The 2024 Olympic Games get underway this week in Paris, which runs alongside several other major sporting events across the summer.

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The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris gets underway on Wednesday with the start of the football and rugby sevens competitions, with the opening ceremony taking place on Friday night.

The Games will last just over two weeks with closing ceremony taking place on Sunday 11th August, with 329 gold medals up for grabs across the entire length of the Games.

In horse racing, the glorious Goodwood festival gets takes place next week for five days of exhilarating racing in Sussex.

England are in the midst of a thrilling Test series against the West Indies, who trail 2-0 after the first two of the three match series, with Ben Stokes’ men also due to be playing Sri Lanka later in the summer.

On the domestic scene, the fourth season of the Hundred gets underway this week in which the Oval Invincibles Men and the Southern Brave Women look to defend their titles from last season, as some of the best players in the world gather for England’s blockbuster cricket competition.

And of course, the football season isn’t far away now with only two and half weeks remaining until the EFL action gets back underway, and a further week until the Premier League starts for a brand new season.

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Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. Begambleaware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

*New Customer offer YSKARZ. Place a min £5 bet on the sportsbook at odds of min EVS (2.0) and get £20 in free bets. Free bet rewards valid for 30 days. Only deposits via Debit Cards & Apple Pay will qualify for this offer. T&Cs apply. Please Gamble Responsibly Paddy’s Rewards Club: Get a £10 free bet when you place 5x bets of £10+. T&Cs apply.

Paddy Pimblett completes epic body transformation ahead of toughest fight to date at UFC 304

Jordan Ellis — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:41:11 +0000

Paddy Pimblett is looking absolutely ripped ahead of UFC 304.

‘The Baddy’ will face the toughest test of his career when he squares off against #15 ranked lightweight contender Bobby Green in Manchester on July 27.

Pimblett looks 100 per cent ready for UFC 304

@theufcbaddy - instagram

Pimblett’s most recent Instagram post shows he’s left no stone unturned in fight camp and as a result, he’s in remarkable shape days before his fight at UFC 304.

The 29-year-old posed shirtless alongside UFC strawweight star Molly McCann, who will also compete on the card, and their strength and conditioning coach Paul Reed.

Pimblett is sporting an impressive six-pack and seems to be in tremendous shape – but that’s not how he looked at the very start of 2024.

The Liverpudlian, who is famous for his post-fight food binges, enjoyed a well-earned break over the festive period after beating Tony Ferguson at UFC 296 on December 16.

To mark the new year, Pimblett shared a message alongside several pictures of him celebrating with his nearest and dearest, including his wife Laura, who recently gave birth to twin girls but was pregnant at the time.

Pimblett’s post didn’t get the desired reaction and his comment section was flooded with fat-shaming trolls pointing out his weight gain since beating Ferguson.

Former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping felt compelled to defend him.

“Paddy Pimblett, he’s stacking on the weight big time, Bisping said on his YouTube channel.

‘The Baddy’ has been fat-shamed throughout his UFC career

@theufcbaddy - instagram

Bisping felt compelled to defend him in January

Getty

“He’s been enjoying Christmas, my God has he ever because he’s back to what everyone calls Paddy ‘The Fatty’.

“So what? The man’s enjoying himself and so far, he’s made weight every single time so leave the man alone.

“It’s Christmas, he’s been enjoying, he’s been indulging, he’s been on the pies, God knows what he’s been doing.”

Pimblett’s fluctuating weight hasn’t impacted his UFC career at all as he’s currently 5-0 in MMA’s premier promotion, which is yet to tie him down to a long-term deal.

After his fight with Green, Pimblett could become a free agent, but he insists his priority is to re-sign with the UFC and mount a lightweight title charge.

If that doesn’t happen, he’ll happily make millions boxing ‘stupid YouTubers’.

Chelsea vs Wrexham LIVE: Enzo Maresca era begins with Hollywood friendly in California – kick-off time, team news and how to follow

Joe Brophy — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:39:26 +0000

Chelsea will get a new managerial era underway with a clash against Wrexham in America for a second successive summer this week.

Enzo Maresca will take charge of his first match in a friendly with the Red Dragons, a year after Mauricio Pochettino beat the Hollywood-backed League One side.

Raheem Sterling and Christopher Nkunku will both hope for better seasons

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Maresca’s predecessor got off to the perfect start at Chelsea, as he oversaw a comfortable 5-0 win over Wrexham in North Carolina.

However, that proved to be a false dawn for Pochettino, who left Stamford Bridge in May after guiding the club to a sixth-place finish.

Maresca has since taken over the reins and will tread a similar path on another Chelsea tour of the US, beginning against Wrexham.

The Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds-backed Welsh team are ahead of the Blues in their pre-season preparations, having thrashed Hanley Town 5-1 before holding Bournemouth to a 1-1 draw.

Chelsea vs Wrexham: Date and how to follow

This pre-season clash is set to take place on Thursday, July 25.

Kick-off at the Levi’s Stadium in California is set for 10:30pm local time, which is 3:30am on Friday morning for UK fans.

The game will be broadcast on ESPN for local audiences, with UK fans able to watch via The 5th Stand app and the official Chelsea website.

talkSPORT and talkSPORT.com will be keeping you up to date with all the latest post-match reaction.

Wrexham co-owner McElhenney was pitchside for the Bournemouth clash

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Chelsea vs Wrexham: Team news

The Blues will be without several players due to their international exploits, including England pair Cole Palmer and Conor Gallagher.

Euro 2024 winner Marc Cucurella and Copa America champion Enzo Fernandez are both absent, with Moises Caicedo not back either.

Gabriel Slonina is at the Paris Olympics, but new signings Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Tosin Adarabioyo could both make their debuts.

Wrexham will be without star striker Paul Mullin following a back operation, with Jacob Mendy also sidelined through injury.

Enzo Fernandez has been involved in controversy

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Chelsea vs Wrexham: Pre-season schedules

Chelsea

Wed, July 24: Chelsea vs Wrexham – Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara (3:30am BST)
Sat, July 27: Chelsea vs Celtic – Notre Dame Stadium, Indiana (9pm BST)
Wed, July 31: Chelsea vs Club America – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta (12:30am BST)
Sat, Aug 3: Chelsea vs Man City – Ohio Stadium, Columbus (10:30pm BST)
Tue, Aug 6: Chelsea vs Real Madrid – Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte (12am BST)
Sun, Aug 11: Chelsea vs Inter – Stamford Bridge (3pm BST)

Wrexham

Sat, Jul 13: Hanley Town 1-5 Wrexham
Sat, Jul 20: Wrexham 1-1 Bournemouth
Wed, Jul 24: Chelsea vs Wrexham – Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara (3:30am BST)
Sat, Jul 27: Vancouver Whitecaps vs Wrexham – BC Place, Vancouver (12:30am BST)
Sat, Aug 3: Wrexham vs Fleetwood Town – SToK Cae Ras, Wrexham (3pm BST)

Aston Villa smash club-record to sign Everton star Amadou Onana who was subject to Arsenal query at Euro 2024

Anton Stanley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:36:42 +0000

Aston Villa have announced the club-record signing of midfielder Amadou Onana from Everton.

The 22-year-old impressed for the Toffees after arriving from Lille in a £33million deal in 2022.

GettyOnana featured four times for Belgium at Euro 2024[/caption]

And now the Villans have swooped to land the Belgian international in a transfer worth £50m, despite interest from Arsenal and Bayern Munich.

That amount eclipses the £43m they paid to Bayer Leverkusen for Moussa Diaby last ummer.

It was a move which may have indirectly led to one of the most astonishing seasons in club football for the German giants, who landed a league and cup double.

Unai Emery’s Villa side were in need of a replacement for Brazil star Douglas Luiz, who joined Juventus earlier this summer for £42.4m.

And Onana – subject to an enquiry from Arsenal last month – fits the bill having developed into a talented and versatile central midfielder in his two campaigns at Goodison Park.

Fellow Villan Boubacar Kamara isn’t expected back from injury until the new season has started, increasing the need for a new midfielder.

Onana, who featured four times for Belgium at Euro 2024 where he started in the quarter-final defeat to France, was forced to answer questions on his future at the tournament.

Queried directly about interest from the Gunners, he responded: “Any comment? I’m here to play the Euros, mate.

AFPOnana battled with Kylian Mbappe in Germany[/caption]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aston Villa FC (@avfcofficial)

“I don’t really know about it. I’m here to focus 100 per cent on the Euros. That’s it.”

Aston Villa have been extremely active in the transfer market as they look to balance their books and prepare for their Champions League campaign.

Enzo Barrenechea and Ross Barkley are two other midfield acquisitions for the Villans, arriving from Juventus and Luton, respectively.

They have also landed Samuel Iling-Junior, Cameron Archer, Lewis Dobbin and Ian Maatsen.

And they have also re-signed Jaden Philogene from Hull – less than 12 months after he departed Villa Park.

Meanwhile Villa have sold youngsters Omari Kellyman and Tim Iroegbunam.

Little known clause holding up Riccardo Calafiori’s expected transfer to Arsenal

Robert Calcutt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:31:00 +0000

Riccardo Calafiori’s move to Arsenal appears to be delayed amid a reported dispute from his former club Roma.

talkSPORT understands the Gunners have reached an agreement in principle with Bologna to sign the centre-back.

Calafiori is set to join Arsenal from Bologna this summer

Getty

Calafiori is set to join as Arsenal’s first summer signing for an initial £34million in a deal that could rise to £38m in add-ons.

He has also been left out of Bologna’s pre-season training camp as he closes in on a move to the Premier League.

The Italian’s former side Basel, whom he left for Bologna only last summer, are reportedly set to earn 50 per cent of the profit from the transfer.

However, Gazzetta dello Sport, report that Roma believe they are entitled to more money from their sale of the player to Basel.

Calafiori joined the Swiss side in 2022 in a €2.5million [£2.1million] deal which included a 40 per cent sale clause on a future transfer.

A year later, he signed for Bologna in a €4million [£3.4million] switch, with Roma said to have earned just over €1.5million [£1.3million].

Basel are now in line to pocket 50 per cent of Bologna’s fee when Calafiori signs for Arsenal.

However, Roma feel as though they are entitled to 40 per cent of this sum and should therefore earn an extra €8million [£6.7million].

Calafiori started his career at Roma, who reportedly claim they should earn more

Getty

They are said to be irritated with Basel amid his pending next move

Getty

Basel believe that the €1.5million [£1.3million] that was sent to the Italian outfit upon their sale of Calafiori is enough though.

Lawyers are now said to be looking into the agreement between Roma and Basel, with the former said to be ‘irritated’ with the latter.

Arsenal may therefore have to wait a little longer to welcome their man to north London.

The Gunners have been of the Premier League’s more quieter sides in the transfer market so far as they eye another title challenge.

David Raya’s permanent move from Brentford after his initial loan is the only piece of businesses they have made in the senior squad.

With outgoings, Arthur Okonkwo completed a permanent move to Wrexham, with Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nuno Tavares joining Sevilla and Lazio on loan respectively.

‘Couldn’t get away with it!’ – Harry Redknapp had ingenious way of tracking Tottenham players on their nights out

Natasha Everitt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:23:22 +0000

Jamie O’Hara has revealed Harry Redknapp used to have bouncers reporting which players went out clubbing on a weekend.

Real Madrid recently built their own nightclub inside the Bernabeu as part of the stadium’s £860million renovation, with entry costing an unbelievable £210,000.

O’Hara was at Spurs from 2003 and 2011 – and he made some hilarious memories whilst at the club

Getty

Discussing the new venue, Breakfast co-host Dean Saunders recalled the days his players would bring a going out outfit with them to Saturday games, ready for them to head out in.

But O’Hara says his time at Tottenham was little bit different, as former Spurs boss Redknapp used to keep a firm eye on his players and their weekend antics.

He said: “I remember back in the day, after a game, the Spurs boys would always – me, [Jermaine] Jenas, [Aaron] Lennon, Tom [Huddlestone], Alan Hutton – we’d always end up in Faces.

“We had to stop going Faces in Gants Hill in Essex because Harry Redknapp used to have a guy on the security door!

“So everytime you walked in there, the security on the door would just jot your name down.

“Next minute, you come in Monday morning and Harry goes ‘Good night in Faces, Jamie?’

“He put a scout out, watching you! That’s why we ended up having to leave Faces and we went up London because you could go missing up there.

Redknapp was no fool when it came to his players going on nights out

Getty

We wonder what he would think of Real Madrid’s night club…

Getty

“But you couldn’t get away with it!”

O’Hara has previously revealed Spurs players had organised a secret Christmas bash behind Redknapp’s back in 2009.

And it’s safe to say the ex-Portsmouth boss was not too impressed.

It remains to be seen if Carlo Ancelotti will allow his Los Blancos stars Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and others to go to their club’s new nightclub, Skybar.

Despite not being La Liga’s top earners, Mbappe and Bellingham will certainly have the cash to be able to afford a space there.

The venue turns from a place to watch matches into a dance floor, which accommodates 200 guests.

If only Spurs had had that back in the day, hey Jamie!

Best online casinos in Ireland: Top-rated Irish casino sites 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:44 +0000

Online casinos are becoming popular in Ireland. The main reason behind this is the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland. Soon, the commission will start regulating and licensing online casino gambling sites.

This is no surprise – gambling is an extremely popular activity in Ireland, with over 70% of the adult Irish population claiming they gambled in the past year. The most popular forms of gambling in Ireland include sports betting and lotteries. But what about online casinos?

Well, even though having an Irish gambling commission is good news, it doesn’t mean all licensed casinos will offer an enjoyable experience. Therefore, it’s important to rely on honest and unbiased reviews, especially since there are hundreds of casinos to choose from. Stick with us to learn more about the best online casinos for Irish players.

What makes a good online casino for Irish players?

Choosing a good online casino can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. Fortunately, there are a few key details that will quickly let you know if signing up at an online casino is worth it, and every casino review we write keeps an eye on these factors. Here’s what you should pay attention to before creating an account:

Casino bonuses, VIP clubs and loyalty program
You should take your time to look through the bonus section of each casino brand to evaluate its diversity. Fair bonuses will also have fair wagering requirements. Furthermore, having a VIP programme for existing casino players offers more entertainment after the sign-up bonus. Any self-respecting highroller casino will have prizes for loyal customers.
Range of games on offer
Before signing up, head over to the casino section and see what types of games are available, in every category. Bonus points if you can find your favourites in the casino game library. Check out the graphics of the best titles, whether they can be played on a smartphone, what other gamblers say about the gaming experience, etc.
Fast payouts and payment options
Withdrawing from an online casino should be fast and easy. Check which banking methods the casino accepts and what their processing times are. Most of the time, withdrawals shouldn’t last more than a couple of days.
Customer service
It’s crucial to rely on speedy and efficient support if you run into issues. The staff should also be available 24/7, or at least during the day.
Quick sign-ups
Some casinos require players to verify their identity before signing up on their platform, which can make the registration process tedious. However, casinos with fast sign-ups are still as safe.
User experience
An engaging user interface and casino site design are important elements for your online entertainment. Therefore, we chose casinos that focus on player experience and not just game variety. Casinos should be optimized for other devices besides desktop PCs, meaning they should look good on a screen of any size. Playing on iOS and Android devices through a browser or a mobile app without having a negative impact on your gameplay is essential.
Security and licensing
It’s important that your casino account holding your payment and personal data is secure. That’s why registering at a casino site that does its due diligence when it comes to safety should be a priority. Also, see if the casino holds a license from renowned institutions such as the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) or the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

A closer look at the top Irish online casinos

Do you prefer having access to the fastest withdrawals? Or perhaps you’re looking for generous bonuses with fair requirements? We tested the top five online casinos across five categories, including mobile compatibility, bonuses, customer support, game selection, and payout speed. Keep reading our casino reviews to see what we found:

1. Casumo

Casumo is an online casino founded in 2012 in Sweden. It quickly became popular among casino enthusiasts for its fun atmosphere and high-quality games. The casino also features exciting bonuses and promotions, including real-time slot races.

You can get started at Casumo with a minimum deposit of €10. The deposit methods include debit cards, PayPal, Skrill and Neteller. Overall, Casumo has over 4,000 games available, ranging from online slots to immersive live casino table games. Sign up and you’ll receive a match bonus of 100% up to 300.

Pros	Cons
Dedicated app for Android devices	The welcome bonus has a wagering requirement of 60x
Over 4,000 games by top-rated iGaming providers	The casino doesn’t accept cryptocurrencies
24/7 live chat support

2. QuickSlot

Founded in 2022, this online casino is licensed by multiple gambling commissions, including the Kahnawake Gaming Commission and Gaming Curaçao. Players from Ireland should be able to deposit at this casino using a debit card, an e-wallet like Skrill, Neteller and MiFinity, but also cryptocurrencies. The minimum deposit is €20. While you’re at it, don’t forget to grab the welcome bonus of 200% up to €500.

However, one aspect where QuickSlot stands out is the number of games. At the time of writing, it had over 4,500 titles available, including slots, table games, and a live casino section.

Pros	Cons
Generous welcome bonus	The minimum deposit is €20
Compatible with popular cryptocurrencies	The site doesn’t have an FAQ section
Game selection with over 4,500 titles

3. HappySpins

HappySpins is the happiest place for slot lovers. This casino was founded in 2021 by DMG Solutions BV, the same company that operates QuickSlot. It has various exciting casino bonuses in store, including a welcome offer that rewards you with a bonus of 200% up to €200.

Similar to its sister site, HappySpins also features a game selection with over 4,500 games, from classic to modern slots, live dealer games, traditional table games, and more. Its minimum deposit is also €20.

Pros	Cons
Huge game selection with over 4,500 titles	No support resources besides email and live chat
Generous welcome bonus with a wagering requirement of 30x	The minimum deposit at the casino is €20
The customer support team is reachable through chat 24/7

4. Highroller

As the name implies, HighRoller was designed for seasoned casino veterans and high-rollers. Established in 2017, the casino is licensed by the Estonian Tax and Customs Board, which helps solidify its reputation as a trustworthy gambling site.

HighRoller accepts payments via debit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies. The minimum deposit starts at €10 and the minimum withdrawal ranges from €20 to €50.

The casino’s game selection is outstanding, with over 3,000 titles to choose from. And if you love slots, you’ll love HighRoller’s welcome bonus of 100% up to €500 plus 200 free spins.

Pros	Cons
Over 3,000 casino games available	The welcome bonus has a wagering requirement of 40x
Instant withdrawals with Jeton and cryptocurrencies	Withdrawals via bank transfer can take up to five days
Licensed and regulated by the Estonian Tax and Customs Board

5. SpinAway

SpinAway is a Curaçao-licensed online casino founded in 2020. As you can tell by its name, the casino is all about spinning the reels, which is why it features a deposit bonus of 100% up to €1,000 plus 100 free spins.

Players in Ireland can deposit at SpinAway using debit cards, Neteller, Skrill, Paysafecard and Jeton, with a minimum deposit of €20. If you’re looking for the best games, you won’t be disappointed by SpinAway. The casino has over 2,500 games available, including a live casino and a dedicated jackpot section.

Pros	Cons
Good bonuses	Limited payment options
Vast games selection	Unclear wagering requirements
Four-part welcome offer

6. Casino Rocket

Casino Rocket is one of the latest additions to Ireland’s online gambling scene, and has already been picking up awards left and right. And no wonder – with games from over a thousand of the best software providers, a fun theme, various bonuses, and fast withdrawals, there’s very little to complain about.

Irish players can deposit using Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, NETELLER, and a few other methods, and expect instant payments when they cash out.

Pros	Cons
Award-winning casino	No Skrill or NETELLER deposits for the welcome bonus
Multiple reload bonuses	No official mobile app
Instant cashouts

7. LuckyDays

LuckyDays is a popular online casino established in 2019. You can get started at this casino using various payment methods, including VISA, Mastercard, ecoPayz, Skrill, Neteller, and even cryptocurrencies. The minimum amount you can deposit is €20.

Overall, LuckyDays has over 2,200 games, including slots, jackpots, table games, and others from software developers such as Microgaming, Playson, and Pragmatic Play. The casino also features an exciting welcome package containing four deposit bonuses and 100 free spins.

Pros	Cons
Huge welcome bonus	No ongoing promotions
Crypto deposits available	No VIP program
Games from reputable companies

8. Slotparadise

Slotparadise is a new online casino founded in 2022. Although it’s a new addition to the iGaming industry, it features a huge welcome bonus of 250% up to $2,500.

You can deposit at the casino using debit cards or cryptocurrencies, with a minimum amount of $10. The casino’s game selection isn’t as extensive as with other slot sites on this list. However, it still has over 1,900 games to choose from.

Pros	Cons
Everyday cash back	No loyalty scheme
Evolution-powered live lobby	Withdrawal fees on all payment methods
Drops & Wins tournaments

9. LeoVegas

LeoVegas is one of the most recognisable online casinos in the business. It was founded in Sweden in 2012 and quickly achieved the spotlight, winning several awards at international shows.

The casino has over 3,800 games available. It’s also compatible with several popular payment methods, such as VISA, Mastercard, Skrill, PayPal, and Neteller. The minimum deposit for players in Ireland is €10.

Last but not least – bonus offers and LeoVegas has a ton of them. Register at the casino to receive a welcome bonus of up to €1,000 plus 200 free spins.

On top of it, LeoVegas also doubles as an online bookmaker, so you can bet on football or your other favourite sports on a single platform.

Pros	Cons
LeoJackpot promotion	No reload bonuses
Doubles as a bookie	No cashback offers
High-level VIP program

How to sign up at an online casino in Ireland

Signing up for an account at an online casino in Ireland is easy. Follow the steps below to get started with the registration process:

Visit an online casino of your choice.
Press the “Register” to start creating an account.
Enter the required details, such as your email, phone number, and date of birth.
Review the information and accept the terms and conditions.

Keep in mind that most Irish casinos don’t include a sportsbook. So if you are interested in placing a wager on greyhound racing or a horse racing event, you should actually look among dedicated sportsbooks for the Irish market.

Best online casino Ireland. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

What games are available at Irish casinos?

Top online casinos in Ireland are known for their game variety, offering thousands of slot games developed by award-winning iGaming developers. For example, some of the best are Evolution, Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, Playtech, Play’n Go and Microgaming.

With such variety in Irish operators’ portfolios, there’s plenty of chance for excitement when members discover great games similar to everyone’s favourites, like Starburst. If you are one of the people that value a certain type of game or play at specific live dealer tables, you’ll find plenty of action at Ireland’s top online casinos.

Here’s a shortlist of the games you can play:

Video slots, jackpot slots
Table games – blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and others
Live dealer casino games – poker, baccarat, roulette, blackjack, craps, and game shows
Virtual bingo, keno, and lottery
Scratchcards
Crash games

The Return to Player (RTP) rate is among the important criteria to consider when choosing an Irish casino site, as it indicates the average amount of money a player can expect to receive back from their wagers over time. Don’t get lured in by jackpot games with incredible prize pools – just like regular slot machines, these games offer very low chances of actually getting that pot of gold.

Are online casinos legal in Ireland?

Currently, there are no regulations that forbid international casinos from offering their services to Irish users. However, the Irish government recently announced the establishment of a gambling commission to licence and regulate casinos operating in the country – the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland.

What is the best online casino in Ireland?

The answer to this question depends on your preferences – is the games portfolio your priority, or do you prefer a comprehensive array of payment options?

Your choices might also be affected by the casino bonus an operator offers, or whether its site has up-to-date SSL encryption protecting user data and transactions. For example, if you’re looking for fast withdrawals, we recommend choosing Highroller. On the other hand, if you prefer playing on the go, consider signing up at Casumo.

Do Irish casinos have mobile apps?

Everything – including gambling – is made more fun by the option to do it on the go. Mobile gambling apps are a huge part of that, so the most reputable online casino brands in Ireland have supplemented their desktop offering with an app.

If that’s wasn’t possible, most operator websites have been optimised to offer a top-notch casino experience on a smaller screen. Either way – mobile gambling is definitely an option in Ireland!

Do I need to pay tax on my winnings?

Since 2006, betting has been subject to a gambling tax of 1%, which was usually charged to punters by the bookmakers. However, in 2015, changes were made so that the tax is now collected from the betting companies. You don’t have to worry about paying taxes on your winnings if you’re in Ireland.

Do online casinos charge fees for withdrawing money?

It depends on the casino you’re playing at. However, the best online casinos in Ireland don’t usually charge fees for deposits or withdrawals. Please note there may be currency conversion fees for withdrawals if you’re playing with a different currency.

How do I withdraw money from an online casino?

Here’s what you should do to withdraw from an online casino in Ireland:

Go to the cashier section and click “Withdrawal”.
Choose the payment method that you previously used to deposit, if it’s available.
Enter the withdrawal amount and your account information.
Review the details and confirm the withdrawal.

There you have it. By now you should have a great idea of what to expect from the best online casino available in Ireland.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

For help with a gambling problem, help is out there. Extern Problem Gambling is the leading provider of information, treatment, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling harms across Ireland.

Best betting sites in Ireland for 2024 – Top Irish bookies & offers

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:41 +0000

There’s no denying it – the Irish are among the keenest punters in the business.

Ireland is one of the most competitive sports betting markets, with dozens of popular online bookmakers aiming for the spotlight. This can overwhelm beginners looking for new bookies.

The good news is that we extensively tested the best betting sites in Ireland to help new punters get started. We looked into bonuses, payment methods, betting markets, special features, and other vital details.

Are you curious to learn which is the best bookmaker, or sportsbook as they call it across the pond, for Irish punters? Keep reading this review as we walk you through all the contenders.

Top Irish bookies for 2024

We’re not here to keep you waiting. Here are the top Irish betting sites.

Tonybet
BetBeast
BoyleSports
Qbet
Betway
Luckster
Bet-at-home
Spreadex
10bet
Bethard
LeoVegas
kwiff
Betsafe
NetBet
888sport

A closer look at the best Irish betting sites

You might be wondering: what makes these Irish gambling sites the best choice? That’s what we’re here to explain. Read the short reviews below and choose your favourite Irish betting site.

1. TonyBet

Are you looking for a value proposition? If so, meet TonyBet – a bookmaker that’s all about generous bonuses. This betting site has offers for everyone, including deposit bonuses and free bets. It also has a unique promotion that rewards punters with up to €100 in free bets.

TonyBet is the best betting site for experienced punters, with some events having over 4,000 betting markets. It also has many underrated sports, such as Australian football, rugby union, and Gaelic hurling.

Pros	Cons
Fun offers, such as free bets and deposit bonuses	It doesn’t have Bet Builder
One of the most diverse bookmakers in Ireland
Licensed by the Irish Revenue Commissioners

2. 10bet

10bet is one of the first bookies that comes to mind when we think about Ireland’s top betting sites. It has various exciting promotions, including a welcome bonus, free bets, and other special offers.

Although 10bet’s diversity of markets isn’t the best around, it gets the job done. Most events have over 100 betting options, ranging from classic wagers to proposition bets. It’s also licensed and regulated by the Irish Revenue Commissioners.

Pros	Cons
Various sports betting bonuses and promotions	Not as many markets as other Irish bookmakers
Fair odds across multiple sports
Licensed and regulated in Ireland

3. Bet-at-home

Bet-at-home is home to thousands of events across a range of sports, including football, tennis, greyhound racing, basketball, and others. It also has a fair share of underrated options, such as MMA, UFC, and boxing.

The diversity of betting features available makes it one of the best online betting sites in Ireland. The bookmaker has a special Trust Bet bonus that allows players to follow the predictions of expert tipsters. It also comes with an innovative Bet Builder and exciting sports bonuses.

Pros	Cons
Has several betting tools, including Bet Builder	The site doesn’t offer free bets
Thousands of sports events to choose from
Generous welcome bonus of up to €300

4. Luckster

If leprechauns owned an online bookmaker, this would be it. Luckster is an Irish-themed gambling site that offers punters an outstanding betting experience. After registering an account, you’ll be met with deposit bonuses, combo boosters, and an innovative Bet Builder.

Whether you’re into football, baseball, or motor sports, you’ll notice that Luckster is suited to all your needs. The odds are as fair as they come and most events have hundreds of markets available.

Pros	Cons
Great sports betting offers	It doesn’t have free bets
Sports selection for every taste
Has a licence from the Irish Revenue Commissioners

5. kwiff

When it comes to innovation in bonuses, nothing beats kwiff. This bookmaker is packed with exciting promotions, making it one of the best Ireland betting sites. One of our favourites is the “get kwiffed” bonus, a random offer that can boost your odds and winnings.

But there’s more to kwiff besides getting kwiffed. The betting site also has an acca insurance bonus and a free bet club. The sports selection has a fair variety of events and betting markets.

Pros	Cons
Innovative bonuses to boost your winnings	The bookmaker doesn’t have a Bet Builder tool
Diverse markets with competitive odds
Modern and intuitive design

6. Betsafe

Betsafe is all about the user experience. The website is straightforward, so you won’t have trouble finding the best events. It also has one of the most diverse betting sections, with some matches having over 500 markets.

If you’re looking for bonuses, you’re in luck. The bookmaker has a few tricks up its sleeve, including a welcome bonus, regular tournaments, free bets, and boosted odds. There’s also a generous acca insurance offer.

Pros	Cons
Diverse betting bonuses and promotions	The in-play section only has a handful of markets
Has Bet Builder and other innovative resources
Licensed and regulated in Ireland

7. LeoVegas

When we think about LeoVegas, the first word that comes to mind is “casino”. But LeoVegas’ sports betting section is a pleasant surprise, featuring the top Irish events, like Gaelic sports, horse racing, and football.

LeoVegas promotions include free bets and generous profit boosters. In addition, the bookie offers fair odds and diverse markets, with over 200 betting options on the most popular matches. It operates with a gambling licence from the Irish Revenue Commissioners.

Pros	Cons
Wide variety of betting markets	It doesn’t have exclusive horse racing promotions
Exclusive bonuses with fair requirements
Licensed by the Irish Revenue Commissioners

8. NetBet

You can’t go wrong with NetBet – dozens of sports, hundreds of events, and thousands of markets. Its sports betting section is vast, ranging from traditional football bets to cycling and rugby wagers.

NetBet is also a solid choice if you’re into bonuses. Its most popular offers include weekly free bets and a unique jackpot for punters who correctly predict four matches. The bookie also offers the best odds in horse racing events.

Pros	Cons
Diverse sports betting section	Not much else besides free bets and jackpots
Licensed and regulated by the Irish Revenue Commissioners
Outstanding reputation in sports betting industry

9. Bethard

If you enjoy betting hard, this online bookie is for you. Although it’s not as recognisable as other Irish bookmakers, Bethard is a solid option for its generous welcome bonus and fair betting odds. It also has a statistics section to view the latest results.

Bethard’s sports betting section has over 30 sports available, including cricket, snooker, golf, and darts. Most events have hundreds of markets, especially in major competitions like the Champions League.

Pros	Cons
Extensive sports betting section with over 30 sports	Limited bonuses
Exciting welcome bonus with fair wagering requirements
The top events have over 400 betting markets

10. 888sport

888sport is also one of those sites that’s typically associated with online casino games. However, it offers an outstanding betting experience for Irish punters. After signing up at 888, you’ll be met with hundreds of markets across several sports.

The bookie has a proprietary Bet Builder tool that allows you to create customised wagers. It also features special free bets in basketball and horse racing. This makes it one of the top Ireland betting sites for Cheltenham betting enthusiasts.

Pros	Cons
Special bonuses for select sports	The sports section is not as diverse as other bookies
Hundreds of betting markets per event
Includes a Bet Builder feature

Top betting offers in Ireland. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

How we evaluated Ireland’s best betting sites

Getting started with sports betting in Ireland isn’t easy, as there are many variables to remember when choosing a top betting site. Here’s what we tested:

Bonus offers

Ireland’s betting sites are known for their fun bonuses. We searched for the most popular offers, including free bets, deposit bonuses, and boosted odds.

Market variety

A good bookmaker will offer hundreds, if not thousands, of markets. We always look through the options available.

Payment methods accepted

Irish punters enjoy fast and safe payment methods. We check what methods are available and how fast the transactions are.

Unique features

Innovation is one of the main things punters look for when choosing a gambling site. We look for innovative features such as Bet Builder and live streaming.

Industry reputation

Reputation is vital when it comes to online gambling. We only recommend trustworthy bookmakers with a spotless track record.

Security and support

We look through the betting sites’ safety measures, such as 128-bit SSL encryption and GDPR guidelines.

Licensing and legislation

Licences are the best way to ensure your safety when betting online. We only suggest betting websites licensed by reputable gambling commissions.

Mobile experience

Many Irish punters enjoy betting through their mobile devices. For this reason, we also verify if bookmakers offer an app.

Are betting sites legal in Ireland?

Yes. Many online bookmakers can offer their services in Ireland with an international licence. In addition, some bookies operate with a specific licence issued by the Irish Revenue Commissioners.

How to sign up at an Irish betting site

Follow these steps to create an account at Irish betting sites:

Visit an online bookmaker and click the sign-up button.
Enter your details and verify your account.
Make your first deposit and claim a bonus.
Start betting.

What are the best football betting websites in Ireland?

We recommend signing at TonyBet and NetBet if you’re looking to bet on football. Both sites offer thousands of betting markets on football, making it easy to find bets suited to your taste.

What are the best horse racing betting sites in Ireland?

Horse racing enthusiasts will benefit from betting sites like 888 and 10Bet. These bookmakers have exclusive free bets for this sport.

Do Irish bookies have live streaming?

Unfortunately, none of the Irish bookies we reviewed offer live streaming. You’ll have to find another Irish betting site if you’re looking to stream your favourite sports.

What we love about Irish betting sites

Irish betting sites are all about making punters happy. They’re packed with everything we look for, including various sports, hundreds of markets, and exclusive promotions. In addition, they’re also fully licensed and regulated.

What to look out for with Irish betting sites

We recommend paying attention to the wagering requirements, which dictate how many times you’ll have to wager your bonus. If they’re too strict, they can make it difficult to complete your bonus and claim your winnings.

Can you win real money on Irish betting sites?

Yes. Irish betting sites give players the chance to win real money. However, if you’re using a bonus, you’ll have to wager your bonus funds to convert them into withdrawable cash.

Are Irish betting websites safe?

Yes. Betting sites in Ireland are licensed and regulated by reputable gambling commissions, such as the Irish Revenue Commissioners, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

Our top 5 tips for betting in Ireland

Enjoy Irish bookmakers to the fullest with these tips:

Learn how to calculate odds: Calculating odds can help you verify if your bets have value.
Look for predictions before betting: Many sites have a community section where you can check the bets of other tipsters.
Record your bets on a spreadsheet: Keeping track of your bets will help you understand how to improve your bets.
Avoid chasing losses: Chasing losses never works as intended. It’ll only lead to heavier losses.
Use bonuses to your advantages: Online bookmakers have generous bonuses that can increase the excitement of betting on sports, such as free bets and deposit bonuses.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Best new casinos in Ireland: Top Irish online casinos to explore in 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:39 +0000

If you want to find out about the latest and greatest new casinos in Ireland, then you’re in the right place. I’ve got a list of the best places to play and thorough reviews to demonstrate what makes them worthy of your attention.

While established casinos that have shifted from brick-and-mortar venues to internet gambling halls might be many people’s first choice, new casinos have an edge the veterans lack: They’re building their whole platform to work with the latest technology from scratch, not adapting an old way of doing business.

As such, I’ve decided to give the rookies a shot to show what they’ve got. Learn about what I found below.

Best new online casinos for Irish players

Here are the top 9 casinos that are new to the Irish market with their launch years.

Full review of the best new casinos in Ireland

I’ll take a closer look at each of the sites and how they earned a spot on my list of the best new casinos in Ireland.

1. Lukki Casino – 2024

Welcome offer: Up to €4,000 + 300 Free Spins
No. of games: 14,000+
Mobile app: No
Payment methods: Debit cards, Skrill, Neteller, MiFinity, Bitcoin, Tether, Ripple, paysafecard, CashtoCode, CoinsPaid, Interac, AstroPay, MuchBetter, Rapid, Neosurf, EcoPayz, Jeton

Can a casino ever have too many games? Well if it can, maybe Lukki Casino is guilty as charged as they have a mind-boggling 14,000 plus to choose from.

Lukki casino welcome screen

Lukki Casino was established in 2023, and I’ve been playing it since the end of last year. Along with the sheer volume of games, the other thing that struck me was the Irish theme with shamrocks and gold a focal point of the user experience.

The welcome bonus of €4,000 is one of the better new customer offers, and the 300 free spins is always going to be a winner for me.

Pros
Over 14,000 games to choose from
Eye-catching welcome bonus
Irish theme
Great VIP program

Cons
No mobile app
High rollover requirements

Play at Lukki casino

2. LuckyWins – 2023

Welcome offer: Up to €3,000 + 300 Free Spins
No. of games: 10,000
Mobile app: Yes
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Rapid Transfer, MuchBetter, MiFinity, Skrill, Neteller, Interac, iDebit, Payz, Jeton, Neosurf, AstroPay, Ezee Wallet, Cash to Code, Siru, paysafecard, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin

Another new Irish casino to open its virtual doors in 2023 is LuckyWins. Like Lukki Casino, the site has a huge games library with over 10,000 selections from 80+ developers making it a popular choice for players from the Emerald Isle.

LuckyWins welcome screen

There is now a mobile app available on iOS and Android, further enhancing the user experience. Prior to the release of the app, I found the mobile site was easy to use with helpful menus making it possible to navigate my way through the extensive games catalogue.

The welcome bonus is more than adequate and if you like the consistency of using the same platform you will love the free spins available to new customers every week.

Pros
Great new mobile app
10,000 plus games to choose from
Weekly existing customer offers
Generous welcome bonus

Cons
High minimum withdrawal limit
Long-winded bonus T&Cs

Play at LuckyWins casino

3. Happy Slots – 2024

Welcome offer: 200% up to €1,000 + 10% Daily Cashback
No. of games: 2,000
Mobile app: No
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bank Transfer, paysafecard, Skrill, Interac, Sofort, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Neteller, Payz, MiFinity, Rapid, JCB, Jeton, Noda, MuchBetter

I found HappySlots to be a far less daunting casino to play than some of the others. It has 2000+ games and the welcome offer is a healthy 200% deposit bonus up to a maximum of €1000. In short, it’s an ideal platform for the inexperienced casino player.

HappySlots casino welcome screen

HappySlots only opened for business in April 2024. I believe it is still evolving and I have no doubt it will establish itself as a main player in the market. Why? Because already I’ve been impressed with the quality of the slot games, the developers they use, their live casino games, the instant-win titles and their casino bonuses. There are also great options that existing customers can take part in like the €10,000,000 Spinomenal and the Wazdan Mystery drop €5,000,000.

Pros
Quality slot games
Sports betting option
Good selection of offers for existing customers
Easy to navigate mobile website

Cons
No app
High wagering requirements

Play at HappySlots casino

4. BetBeast – 2023

Welcome offer: €6,000 Worth of Bonuses
No. of games: 7,000
Mobile app: Yes
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, Paysafecard, Siru, Rapid Transfer, UPI, Pix, Payz ecoPayz, Interac, MiFinity, Jeton, Skinsback, MuchBetter, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Tether.

I found Bet Beast to be a middle-of-the-road casino in terms of the number of games they have available. 7000+ is plenty. But it’s less than some of the names on this page.

BetBeast casino welcome screen

The main selling points for Bet Beast are the $6,000 welcome bonus, their new and exciting mobile app, and their offers for existing customers, which includes a loyalty club and VIP program. I also found a wide range of deposit methods are available and customer support is more than adequate. All-in-all, BetBeast is a good choice of casino for players from Ireland.

Pros
Sports betting option
Tournaments for existing customers
Great welcome bonus
Loyalty Club and VIP Program

Cons
Low monthly withdrawal limit
No live streaming on sports

Play at BetBeast casino

5. Fortune Play – 2024

Welcome offer: €5,000+ 300 Spins
No. of games: 8,000
Mobile app: Yes
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bank Transfer, paysafecard, Skrill, Neteller, EcoPayz, Interac, Neosurf, MuchBetter, MiFinity, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Tether

Another entry into the market place in 2024, Fortune Play is home to an impressive catalogue of over 8,000 games. The games are powered by all the top developers such as Pragmatic Play and Evolution. Another huge plus point is their more than generous welcome offer of $5,000 and 300 spins. Not the best in the business, but by far not the worst.

Fortune Play casino welcome screen

There are ample payment methods with Fortune Play. Like most casino start ups, they have embraced cryptocurrencies, while also remembering us dinosaurs who still use debit cards. The minimum deposit of €20 is a slight negative. But on the whole, Fortune Play is a solid pick for Irish customers.

Pros
Great welcome bonus
Numerous payment options
Brand new mobile app for iOS and Android
Easy to navigate mobile site

Cons
High minimum deposit amount
Limited FAQs

Play at Fortune Play casino

6. Rooster Bet Casino – 2023

Welcome offer: €5,000+ 300 Spins
No. of games: 4,000
Mobile app: No
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bank Transfer, paysafecard, Skrill, Neteller, EcoPayz, Interac, Neosurf, MuchBetter, MiFinity, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Tether

Rooster Bet Casino started accepting customers in 2023. There are plenty of positives including a solid €5,000 Welcome Offer backed up by 300 spins, plenty of deposit methods, and over 4000 games to choose from.

Rooster Bet casino welcome screen

There is no Rooster mobile app, but that isn’t a problem as their mobile site is very easy to use with menus for both games and developers, allowing you to navigate to your favourite slot game with ease. Rooster Bet also offers plenty of incentives for existing customers and has 24/7 customer support to fall back on.

Pros
Plenty of existing customer tournaments
Sports betting option
24/7 customer support
30 VIP levels

Cons
No app
Reload bonuses have high wagering requirements

Play at Rooster Bet casino

7. Luckster Casino – 2021

Welcome offer: 100 Spins + 100% deposit bonus up to €200
No. of games: 1,300
Mobile app: No
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bank Transfer, paysafecard, Skrill, Neteller, Payz, MiFinity, CashtoCode, MuchBetter, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Tether

Another Irish-themed platform, Luckster opened its new online casino doors to players in 2021. Their bonus isn’t as eye-catching as some of the others on this page, but that is in part down to it being a more established casino that can trade on reputation rather than needing headline offers.

Luckster casino welcome screen

With only 1,300 games to choose from, Luckster is far easier to navigate than some of our other recommended casinos. Don’t be put off by the smaller selection of games. Only the quantity is diluted, not the quality. One reason for the smaller platform could be to focus more on quality, and that is certainly not lacking in their live casino games, where partnering with Evolution, Luckster has excelled.

Pros
Great live casino
Sports betting option
Irish themed mobile site
Easy to navigate website

Cons
Limited customer support
Small welcome bonus

Play at Luckster casino

8. Snatch – 2021

Welcome offer: 450% up to €6,500 + 350 Free Spins
No. of games: 7,000+
Mobile app: No
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bank Transfer, paysafecard, Skrill, Interac, Sofort, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Neteller, Payz, MiFinity, MBWay, Zimpler, Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Tether

Established in 2021, Snatch is still grabbing headlines with its welcome bonus. The Snatch Casino welcome bonus has been slightly trimmed from €6,500 to the current €6,000 and 325 Free Spins. The Free Spins has also been cut from 350, but it was a ridiculously good offer that was never going to last forever. A lot of more established casinos would most certainly have reduced the offer by a lot more by now. But not Snatch.

Snatch casino welcome screen

Other things that impressed me were the Grand Theft Auto inspired theme. The moment I arrived on the site, I felt it had a more dynamic and exciting feel about it than any of the others on this page. There is no app, but given the quality of the layout of the mobile site, I didn’t care.

Pros
Huge welcome bonus
Dynamic themed website
7,000 plus games to choose from
Good offers for existing customers

Cons
Large wagering requirements
No mobile app

Play at Snatch casino

9. ProntoBet – 2023

Welcome offer: 200% up to €1,000 + 10% Daily Cashback
No. of games: 5,000+
Mobile app: No
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bank Transfer, paysafecard, Skrill, Interac, Sofort, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Neteller, Payz, MiFinity, Rapid, JCB, Jeton, Noda, MuchBetter

ProntoBet started taking wagers in 2023, and is a new Irish casino that focuses on the basics rather than trying to be too flashy. The platform hosts over 5,000 games, including a high-quality live casino section covering all the old classics such as Blackjack and Baccarat.

ProntoBet casino welcome screen

There is no mobile app, so iOS and Android users will have to make do with the mobile site, but I found the mobile site more than adequate for all my igaming needs. Another no frills platform, the payment methods lack crypto options, but there are e-wallet options such as Neteller and Skrill available to back up debit card payments.

Pros
Daily cashback offer
Over 5,000 games to play
Good live casino
Sports betting option available

Cons
No mobile app
No crypto payment option

Play at ProntoBet casino

My favourite new casino in Ireland

All the casinos listed above are great to play in, but LuckyWins is the one that stood out to me. Why? Well, firstly, I love free spins. Plenty of our recommended casinos offer free spins as part of their sign up bonus, but LuckyWins also offers free spins every week for existing customers.

Starting on Wednesday, you can get 100 free spins using the Midweek Freespins Bonanza promotion. There are a further 200 available on Fridays in the Friday Happy Hour, and another 40 free spins and up to €100 on Sundays from the Easy Sundays promo.

The perks for existing customers don’t stop there. There is also an 11-tier VIP Club that offers plenty of casino bonuses to loyal players.

Overall, I also found the player experience genuinely positive. LuckyWins has over 10,000 games to choose from. And as they are all provided by the top developers, I found them easy to use.

There is an easy-to-use mobile app, which isn’t always the case with new casinos. In my experience, new casinos don’t always have an app. It’s probably a cost-cutting measure. Although the trade-off is usually a modern sleek-looking website. LuckyWins have bucked that trend and have both an easy-to-use app and I also found their mobile site was easy for me to navigate.

Finally, the welcome bonus was a big win for me. Coming in four stages, I found it easier to use as I didn’t have to hit a mega rollover target in a small amount of time. And finally, I got a nice 300 free spins to use as well.

What I look out for when choosing a new casino

Choosing a new online casino to play in Ireland can seem daunting, but it really isn’t. Staying safe is the number one priority. After that, I follow the criteria below to help me come to my decision.

Range of games

There is a massive selection of Irish casinos offering thousands of games on this page. For me, it’s not just the quantity of games, but also the range that is vitally important. As I may have already mentioned, I love slots. But there is more to casinos than just slot games. Plenty of others prefer classic table games found in the live casino. So when I choose, I always take this into consideration.

Also important to me is the game quality. The top developers like Red Tiger Gaming, NetEnt and Pragmatic Play produce quality games. So I always check the list of developers on any casino website to ensure such big names are present.

Bonuses and promotions

Who doesn’t love a good casino bonus? I certainly do. So as a result, one of the first things I check is how generous the welcome bonus is, and how long I have to use it. I have a massive gripe with sites that offer a new customer casino bonus, but little to nothing for existing customers. A VIP scheme is often a sign of a casino that looks after existing customers, and is something else I look for when I sign up.

Banking methods

Depositing and withdrawing money should be a smooth and seamless process. If it’s not, then I wouldn’t recommend that casino. I also want various options. I’m a bit old school and prefer debit card payments, so I need to know that a casino at the very least accepts Apple Pay and Google Pay, allowing me to use my debit cards on my mobile device. I also like having the option of an e-wallet like PayPal as a backup. There are plenty of payment methods available across the Irish casinos on this page. Finding the one that suits you shouldn’t be a problem.

Customer support

Throughout my years of playing, I’ve had one or two issues shall we say. Problems and issues are becoming fewer and fewer with advances in the technology used by the modern casinos. But the 100% perfect casino still doesn’t exist. So for when things do go wrong, I need to know I can get a high level of customer support. I used to prefer phone support, but that is becoming a thing of the past. These days I would expect a 24/7 service of some sort, and I’ve found that one of the best methods for this is live chat. Live chat is something I am now getting used to and has fast become my preferred channel of communication if I encounter a problem.

Mobile play

Playing a casino is a bit of fun that should be done as a pastime. The days of sitting at a desktop pressing a button are long gone (that’s for content writers). I want to play a casino while I’m lounging on my sofa while someone else is watching something boring on the TV. Therefore, finding a casino with a great mobile site or app is extremely important. One way to find the best mobile sites is by using the casinos on this page. Another is to check user reviews.

New online casinos. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

New online casinos vs established online casinos

There are plenty of examples of the advantages and disadvantages of trying out new online casino sites instead of more established ones. I find the newer casinos can look more sleek and attractive. They often have more eye catching bonuses as they look to try and build up their core user bases.

But as a result, some new casinos can be all trousers and no action. They look the part, act the part, but underneath it all, they can almost feel like a bit of a fraud. There could be many reasons for this. They could just be poor casinos. Or it could be that they are slowly building themselves into a better product as they learn what works and what doesn’t.

The established casinos can afford to trade on reputation. Their reputations aren’t built overnight. And the fact they are still thriving in today’s competitive marketplace shows they know how to operate a successful casino.

In my experience, some of the older casinos have a more boring website, better existing customer offers and more old-fashioned customer services – ie, someone on the end of a telephone.

While the newer casinos will have sleeker websites and better sign up bonuses. They are also more likely to cater for the younger generation who use crypto and are happy to do everything online.

Payment methods available at new online casinos

Payment methods for online casinos in Ireland are evolving. The older methods like credit cards are being phased out. But traditional methods like debit cards remain. Here are some of the most common methods available to players in 2024:

Visa/Mastercard: Debit cards are still the most popular method used to deposit money to Irish casinos. Nearly everybody will have one, and they are the one thing that is accepted across just about any gaming platform. Debit cards can also be used to deposit using Apple Pay and Google Pay.
E-wallets: If you prefer to limit the amount of companies you give your personal details to then e-wallets are the ideal alternative. Using this method, you only have to connect your bank to an e-wallet, and then use the wallet to deposit to the different casinos. The most popular e-wallets are PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. All should be accepted by the best online casino sites in Ireland.
Cryptocurrencies: Crypto payments are becoming more and more available at new online casinos. And there is a whole load of them available in 2024. Long gone are the days when all we knew about was BitCoin. Bitcoin is still the most popular, but there are now more and more different cryptocurrencies available. Some of the more prominent are Ethereum and Litecoin.

Bonuses I claimed from new online casinos

One of the best things about joining new casinos is getting hold of the welcome bonuses and any other perks that come with them. But if you are not a regular user of casinos, you might find some of the different welcome packages confusing. Not all are the same, and the jargon can be difficult to understand. Below, I look at the main bonus types I have claimed, explaining the differences in more details:

Welcome Bonus: The welcome bonus is the easiest to understand. The idea is for the casino to catch your eye with a headline offer that instantly attracts your attention. Usually a welcome bonus will be based on your first deposit and is for a specific amount.
Matched Deposit: A matched deposit is based on the casino matching your deposit with a certain amount of money. So if it was a 100% matched deposit bonus up to a maximum of €300, the casino would give you another €300 if you deposit €300. There is usually a minimum deposit amount. For example, it could be €10. In this case, if you deposit €10, the casino will give you €10.
Bonus Spins: Bonus spins can also be known as free spins, with both having the same meaning. Sometimes they will come as part of the new customer package, and sometimes free spins are awarded for loyalty as part of a VIP club. On occasions, the spins can be game specific. So for example, they might be for Rainbow Riches only.
Cashback Bonus: Cashback bonuses are based on you getting a percentage of a deposit or losses back as bonus funds. These can be found in welcome bonuses based on you receiving back a percentage of your deposit. They are also used as an incentive for existing customers. For example, you may get 50% of your deposit back if you are a member of a VIP club and you deposit a particular amount of euros every week. Finally, some casinos offer you a cashback on losses. Although, for obvious reasons, we prefer not to qualify under those circumstances.
Loyalty Programs: Finally, loyalty programs are a popular way of claiming casino bonuses. Loyalty programs are often referred to as VIP clubs. Essentially, they are an incentive to keep players coming back. Often they are tiered systems where the more you deposit and play, the bigger your rewards.

Most popular games to play at new casinos

There are now thousands of games available to play at new and existing casinos in Ireland. Some are traditional games, and you even find some seasonal slots, such as slot games based on events like the recently held Euro 2024. I may have mentioned it already in this article, but slots are my personal favourites. Below I list some of my preferred titles:

Starburst: Starting with the casino classic from NetEnt, Starburst is instantly recognisable to literally anybody who has ever played a casino or has merely seen an advert for a particular gaming platform. You should find Starburst near the top of the lobby in any new casino in Ireland.
Rich Wilde and the Tome of Madness: There are plenty of Rich Wild variations, such as the Book of Dead, Tome of Insanity, and the Amulet of Dead, but my preferred version is the Tome of Madness. The Indiana Jones theme makes it eye-catching, but the free spins make it more of an appeal to my personal liking.
Big Bass Bonanza: Another favourite of mine is Big Bass Bonanza, which has become a success for Pragmatic Play since its introduction in 2020. Such is its popularity, the game has been the influence for many spin-offs, only increasing its reach with gamers across Ireland and beyond.
Gonzo’s Quest Megaways: My final choice of game is Gonzo’s Quest Megaways. An offshoot of NetEnt’s Gonzo’s Quest game, the Megaways version is an upgrade on the original product, produced by Red Tiger, who happen to be a subsidiary of NetEnt. Another game offering free spins, it’s not only a top choice for me, but also for players of new online casinos in Ireland.

FAQ about new online casinos in Ireland

1. Which new casino has the best sign-up offer?

The casino with the biggest sign-up offer is Snatch. New customers get a 450% bonus up to €6,000 and 325 Free Spins.

2. Which casinos are considered new for me?

We consider any casinos opened in the past few years as a new casino in Ireland. On this page all the casinos in our top 10 launched from 2021 onwards, with the majority opening for business in 2023 or 2024.

3. How to know when an online casino was launched?

The best way to find out when a new casino was launched is by following our guides here at TalkSPORT. All our information is regularly updated ensuring you only get the most up to date news on any casino launches.

4. Are new casinos in Ireland safe?

The majority of new casinos in Ireland are safe. The best way to find the safe ones is to follow guides like this one. If you do find any yourself be sure to do your homework and check the casino out thoroughly.

Things to look out for are licensing information, anti-money laundering protocols and responsible gambling policies. Any casino that is missing any of this information is probably worth avoiding.

5. Which new casino has the best mobile app?

A lot of new casinos don’t have mobile apps. The trade off is a modern easy to navigate mobile website that allows you to play them on your phone with ease.

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Liam is an experienced iGaming and sports betting journalist based in Cardiff. He has worked in the sports betting industry since 2017 and has provided content for some of the biggest casino and betting brands in the UK. He has also covered football and other sports for both regional and national newspapers.

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Best casino welcome bonus for Irish players 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:36 +0000

Top casinos are ready with open arms and a bounty of welcome bonuses for all lads and lassies older than 18.

I have put together a list of the best welcome offers for Irish online casino players who are looking for a new site to call home. Find out what you need to know before you start exploring the world of online gambling.

A closer look at the best casino welcome bonuses for Irish players

The Irish online casinos above are ones I highly recommend for a great casino experience and of course, their hefty welcome offers. More details on them, including their main benefits and drawbacks, are listed below.

1. Casumo

You can play casino games on the Casumo platform using web browsers or the app. You’ll experience the same great quality and fastness in over 3,700 games. You’ll find many slots from classics to more modern titles. You can also take your chances at winning big with jackpot slots.

Pros	Cons
100% of up to €300 and 50 free spins	Few table games and live casino
Over 3,000 slots
Sportsbook integrated on the site
Mobile app
Fast withdrawals

2. QuickSlot

QuickSlot is a Curacao-licensed online casino accepting players globally, including Ireland. It has a long list of games in the slots, table games, live casino, bingo, and scratch card categories.

Besides the welcome offer, you’ll find various ongoing promotions and tournaments. As the name of the casino suggests, you can enjoy fast games whether playing on mobile or computer devices.

Pros	Cons
200% of up to €500 welcome bonus	No loyalty program
Various games
Top game providers like Play’n GO
Fast withdrawal methods
24/7 live chat

3. HappySpins

HappySpins is the go-to online casino for those who want to stay entertained. You can enjoy new and popular jackpots or classic slots. There are also many table games and a couple of live casino titles.

You can check if your poker face works online with a couple of poker games and see if luck is on your side with scratch cards and bingo. There’s a whole lot to keep you smiling at HappySpins casino.

Pros	Cons
Welcome offer of 200% up to €200	Could add more live casino titles
A good selection of casino games including slots, bingo and keno
Various banking methods, including crypto
Fast withdrawals
24/7 support

4. HighRoller

Other than its impressive welcome offer, where you can try 10 different slots in 10 days, HighRoller is not an ordinary casino. You’ll find loads of live casino and table games instead of just slots.

Pros	Cons
100% of up to €500 and 200 free spins welcome offer	Could add more payment options
Excellent live casino
Fast withdrawals
24/7 support

5. SpinAway

SpinAway has a beautiful space theme. The casino offers over 2,500 games. Over 2,000 of these games are slots and then a couple of roulette, blackjack, and baccarat titles on video or live versions. If you want to play any of these, then you can float your way to fast deposit methods. You can choose between bank cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency payment options.

Pros	Cons
Welcome bonus of up to €1,000 and 100 free spins	Could add more payment options
Over 2,500 games
Fast withdrawals
24/7 support

6. Casino Rocket

Casino Rocket, besides its two-part welcome offer, features a unique theme and user interface. With over 3,000 games available, including slots, table games, live casino, poker, roulette, blackjack, and more, there is always something new to try out. The casino also offers a variety of payment options, including cryptocurrencies.

Pros	Cons
Two-part welcome offer	Welcome bonus not available for Skrill and Netter
Crypto payment options
Over 70 game providers
VIP program

7. LuckyDays

Besides the generous welcome offer, LuckyDays casino is a great spot for quality games. It features over 3,700 games provided by top software companies like NetEnt, PragmaticPlay, Evolution, and Play’n GO. These include over 3,500 slots, over 70 table games, and over 50 live casino titles. You can securely fund and withdraw from your casino account using its secure and fast payment methods.

Pros	Cons
Up to €1,000 and 100 free spins welcome offer	Limited table games
Mobile app
Fast withdrawals
Over 3,700 games

8. Slot Paradise

If you are looking for a new venue with renowned game providers such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and Evolution Gaming, then Slot Paradise is the casino for you. You will also find that the casino offers daily cashback options, promotions, and tournaments. Fast withdrawals are available, and the website has multiple convenient payment options.

Pros	Cons
Generous welcome offer	No mobile app
Variety of casino games
Fast withdrawals
24/7 customer support

9. LeoVegas

LeoVegas is one of the most popular online casinos in Europe. It was established in 2012 and has over 3,900 games including slots, bingo, table, and live casino titles. It features various ongoing promotions, including an exclusive loyalty program. After making an instant deposit to play games and participate in promotions, you’ll also be able to withdraw your wagered winnings fast.

Pros	Cons
100% of up to €1,000 and 200 free spins	Could add more payment methods
Mobile app
VIP program
Over 3,900 games

What to look out for when choosing the best sign-up offer?

It’s important to check the terms and conditions of a sign-up offer, including who qualifies for them. For example, a casino can accept Irish players, but not offer certain bonuses to them.

Check the accepted deposit methods for the welcome offer. Most sites support Skrill and Neteller for payments but do not offer the welcome bonus to players who make a first deposit with these e-wallets.

Check how the bonus works. Is it a package made up of three deposits? When does it expire after activation? When can you use the free spins? Also, check if the casino is a sister site of one you’ve played on before. If you’ve received a similar welcome offer on a sister site, you might not be able to partake in it again.

Finally, check the wagering requirements. Some online casinos offer a massive welcome offer only to find out that the wagering requirements are ridiculously high. Good casino sites have 35x to 50x wagering requirements.

What is a welcome bonus and how does it work?

A welcome bonus is a reward for new players who sign up and make their first deposit, as long as it qualifies. This is usually around €10 to €20 in most online casinos and it’s normally a match deposit bonus where the gambling site adds a percentage of the deposit to the player’s account in the form of bonus money.

The bonus money comes with terms and conditions, most notably the wagering requirement which stipulates how many times the bonus must be played through before it becomes real money.

Sign up at Casumo and receive a welcome bonus with a minimum deposit of €20.

Pros and cons of welcome bonuses in 2023

Below are the pros and cons of sign-up offers in 2023:

Pros

You can play more games without depositing more money
You can win and withdraw from the bonus
New players can learn more about how casino games, promotions, and payment options work without spending more of their money
Some do not require a deposit

Cons

You have to complete the wagering requirements to withdraw your winnings

How to claim a casino welcome bonus

To claim a welcome bonus, you have to complete the registration and deposit the required amount. Once your deposit goes through, the bonus money is automatically added to your player account’s total funds.

If the casino welcome offer comes with a bonus code, there’ll be an option to enter it on the cashier tab during the deposit stage.

How to cash out the best welcome bonuses

There are two types of welcome bonuses: sticky and non-sticky. A sticky bonus means that you are stuck with it and must fulfil the wagering requirements before you can make a withdrawal. On the other hand, a non-sticky bonus and all winnings associated with it can be withdrawn whenever you want.

There is one caveat to consider, though. You must wager your deposit amount at least one time before any online casino will allow you to withdraw money. This is in line with international laws pertaining to money laundering.

Sign up with QuickSlot and get a 200% match up to €500 welcome bonus.

The most popular welcome offers in Ireland

Some of the most popular welcome offers in Ireland include no deposit, match-up, cashback, free spins, refer-a-friend, and deposit bonuses. For instance, LeoVegas has a generous welcome offer that allows plenty of game time.

The most popular casino games that offer bonuses

Popular online casino games that are usually featured in welcome bonuses are Starburst, Wild Wild Riches, and Book of Dead, to name a few. The bonus terms offer different rewards and prizes to members that can then be spent on these games.

However, before you claim a free spin or cash bonus tied to a particular game, read the fine print first to avoid any nasty restrictions on your winnings, for example.

How to win real money with welcome bonuses

You can win real money with welcome bonuses once you’ve completed the wagering requirements. That’s why most new players elect to take advantage of casino bonuses granted on registration, as they represent a chance to win a fortune, provided they choose where to wager their bonus funds carefully.

Just like with a real slot machine, your bonus cash will only take you as far as the slot game’s payout percentage. If that number is low, you’re fairly likely to lose most of your casino bonus without any value in return and risk losing much more money than just the casino bonus amount.

Final remarks

Choosing an online casino that works for you is not only about looking at the welcome bonus. It should be able to cater to players in many ways, including promotions, which are more than just a welcome offer, game variety, supported payment options, customer support, safety, and security. The 10 casinos I recommended are not only made up of generous welcome bonuses, but also the above elements.

Welcome bonuses shouldn’t only be hefty, but should also have reasonable wagering requirements so that you can access your winnings to play more casino games or cash them out.

FAQ about the best casino welcome offers

1. What payment methods are available in Ireland for casino players?

Popular casino payment methods for Irish players include Skrill, Neteller, paysafecard, MuchBetter, ecoPayz, Visa, and Mastercard.

2. Are welcome offers only available for new players?

Welcome offers are mainly there to attract new customers, limited to first-time depositors. Casinos do have ongoing promotions for existing players.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Best football betting sites for punters in Ireland

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:33 +0000

The Irish are among the biggest sports enthusiasts in Europe, especially in betting. For this reason, many football betting sites have started to offer their services in the country, allowing punters to sign up, claim a bonus, and bet on their favourite teams.

But how do you choose an Irish betting site? What do the best Irish companies for sports betting have to offer? What is the top Irish bookmaker? These are some of the questions we’ll be answering today.

With our guide, you’ll be able to understand what makes a great Irish gambling site, what payment options you can use, and what are the best football competitions to bet on. Did we pique your interest? If so, be sure to stick around.

Best Irish football bookies

This is what you came here for – to learn more about the best Ireland football (soccer for some) bookies. Below, you’ll find a list of our top betting companies in Ireland. All the betting sites presented were extensively tested according to various criteria, including licensing, bonuses, and payments.

How we rated the best football betting sites

All sports gambling sites featured in our guide were subject to a detailed reviewing process before earning their spot. To achieve this, we developed an in-depth testing method that evaluates betting sites according to multiple criteria, ranging from football bonuses to security features.

Promotional offers for football

These wouldn’t be the best betting sites in Ireland if they didn’t feature exclusive promotional offers for football lovers. We tested all bookies based on their football bonuses, such as the variety of offers and the wagering requirements. Some of the best offers we found include free bets and boosted odds.

Bonuses

Even though we ranked the best football betting sites, that shouldn’t be the only sport where punters can grab bonuses. As such, we also looked at the other promotions to verify what sports they’re compatible with. The best sports betting sites will often have bonuses that allow you to bet on various sports, including horse racing, greyhound racing, and others.

We also browsed through casino welcome bonuses if the operators had any for the sake of our customers who like both sportsbooks and casinos.

Market assortment

One aspect that makes Irish bookmakers great is the variety of sports betting markets available. Many bookies in the country will feature thousands of events with hundreds of football markets to be on. During our testing, we searched for the most common sports bet types, such as 1×2, over/under, handicap, and others.

Payment methods

Irish bookmakers are known for offering diverse payment methods with fair limits and low fees. Before we recommend a betting site, we verify what options are available, what are the minimum deposit and withdrawal amounts, and if transactions are subject to fees. We also check if the sites accept less traditional payment methods, such as cryptocurrencies.

Special features

Sports betting sites rely on special features to stand out from their competitors. Some of the best betting site features in Ireland include cash out, live streaming, and Bet Builder. We compared the different tools offered by bookies based on how intuitive they are and what markets they’re compatible with.

Licences & reputation

Playing at a licensed bookmaker helps ensure your safety. We only recommend the best Irish casinos that are licensed by trustworthy gambling commissions, like the Irish Revenue Commissioner, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), and HM Government of Gibraltar. In addition, we rank them based on their reputation and number of years in the industry

Mobile Experience

Betting on mobile devices is like having a Guinness while watching your favorite team – you can’t go wrong with it. When reviewing a bookie, we always check if it has a betting app or a mobile site. Betting through an app or mobile site should be as intuitive as using the desktop version.

Security

As we’ve mentioned, licenses are crucial to ensure the safety of punters. However, that’s not the only thing we look for. We also evaluate the security features Irish bookmakers use, such as encryption protocols, KYC procedures, and GDPR guidelines. The goal is to ensure the privacy of punters and that their information isn’t shared with third parties.

A closer look at the top rated football betting sites in Ireland

We already present the best Irish bookmakers and how they were tested. Now, it’s time to let you know our findings based on the parameters evaluated. Take a closer look at what the top Irish betting sites have to offer:

1. LeoVegas

LeoVegas isn’t the site you’d typically associate with sports betting. However, it’s here for a reason. Even though it’s known as one of the best places for casino games, LeoVegas is also a great option for Irish punters. The site offers a 10% profit boost on bets placed on their partners – Manchester City and Inter Milan and a sports betting app.

Pros	Cons
Over 10 years of experience in the business	Not the widest variety of payment methods
Exclusive sports app for iOS and Android
Great football odds

2. 888sport

888 is also a bookie usually associated with slots and other casino games. In reality, it’s one of our top contenders for the tip of the best online bookie in Ireland. In addition to offering over 150 betting markets on various events, it also features an exciting free bet welcome bonus.

Pros	Cons
Free bet bonus without wagering requirements	The Bet Builder resource isn’t compatible with all sports
Accepts 10 deposit and withdrawal methods
Most events have over 150 markets to choose from

3. kwiff

This online bookie is known for having one of the most innovative betting offers in the business – the “getting kwiffed” bonus. Essentially, every bet you place has the chance of being automatically boosted, increasing its potential payouts if you win. The bookmaker also features a detailed in-play section and an app.

Pros	Cons
Exciting bonus that can boost your odds betting at any time	It doesn’t have Bet Builder
The bookmaker has an app for iOS and Android devices
Extensive live betting section with good football betting odds

4. Luckster

Even though it was founded in 2021, Luckster is already becoming a popular option among Irish punters. This betting site has everything you could ask for, including cash out, Bet Builder, and exciting bonuses. During our testing, we found football matches with over 300 betting markets, making it one of the most diverse bookies in Ireland.

Pros	Cons
Has cash out and Bet Builder	It doesn’t have free bet bonuses
Most football events have over 300 markets
Exciting welcome bonus to boost your bankroll

5. BoyleSports

BoyleSports is a well-known football betting site among Irish punters. The bookie, founded way back in 1982, has gained plenty of experience with football betting markets. BoyleSports offers a range of promos, bonuses, a bet calculator, cash-out options, and boosted odds. It offers daily specials, too, so we recommend checking in occasionally to see if there are specific offers for a match you plan to bet on.

Pros	Cons
Cash-out options	Loyalty program limited to retail shops
Football specials and boosted odds	No football live-streaming
Great mobile app

6. Bethard

Bethard is a popular gambling operator founded in 2012. Punters who sign at this bookmaker will be able to grab an enjoyable welcome bonus and other potentially rewarding features, such as cash out, odds boosts, and Bet Builders. Although it doesn’t have the largest variety of events, or tournaments, some matches have over 700 markets to bet on.

Pros	Cons
Bet Builder, cash out, and other betting tools are available	No further sports betting offers besides the welcome bonus
Some football events have over 700 betting markets available
Compatible with various payment methods

7. NetBet

NetBet is one of the earliest bookmakers on our list. Founded in 2001, it benefits from an extensive reputation and has licences from major gambling commissions. Throughout the years, NetBet has introduced many innovative betting tools, including SnapBet, Bet Maker, and others. It also has several bonuses for sports enthusiasts, such as free bets.

Pros	Cons
A trustworthy site that’s been in the business for over 20 years	It doesn’t offer a streaming service
Exciting and innovative betting features
Free bet welcome bonus without wagering requirements

8. TonyBet

TonyBet is a reputable bookie that operates in Europe with a licence issued by the Estonian Tax and Customs Board. The bookmaker is known for being one of the most diverse Ireland football betting sites – some events feature thousands of markets! Tonybet also comes with several fun promotions for sports enthusiasts.

Pros	Cons
Various sports promotions, including a welcome bonus, a VIP club, and tournaments	The welcome bonus has higher wagering requirements than other bookies
Over 10 years of expertise in the business
Huge variety of football betting markets

Are there many Irish football betting sites to choose from?

Yes. Punters can Ireland can literally choose from hundreds of football betting sites. However, it’s important to opt for tried and tested bookmakers such as the ones you can find in this guide. Alternatively, you can look for new bookies using our testing criteria as a reference.

Which Irish bookmakers are the best for football betting

Here are a couple of recommendations if you’re looking for the top betting companies in Ireland:

TonyBet

There are many reasons to choose TonyBet if you’re looking to bet on football. However, we can easily simplify it into two reasons – bonuses and features. TonyBet has multiple sports betting bonuses with low wagering requirements and highly innovative betting features, such as the Bet Editor.

kwiff

This betting site is everything a modern Irish bookmaker should be – fun, daring, and innovative. Bonuses at this site are different from everything else, as they randomly reward punters with huge boosts. Talk about getting kwiffed!

What payment methods can you use to bet on football in Ireland?

Ireland’s betting sites are known for their fast and safe payment methods. In addition, many bookmakers in the country are compatible with a wide variety of banking options, including:

Debit cards – VISA, Mastercard, Maestro
E-wallets – PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, ecoPayz
Vouchers – Paysafecard
Bank transfers – Trustly and others

How to bet on football in Ireland

Follow the steps to start betting on sports in Ireland in 2023:

Choose a reputable bookmaker.
Sign up for an account.
Make a deposit and claim a bonus if you’d like.
Look through the sports selection.
Select an event you like.
Take a look at the markets available.
Add your selection to your betting slip.
Confirm.

How popular is football betting in Ireland?

Besides Gaelic football, also known as GAA, football is the most popular sport in Ireland. As such, it’s also one of the sports where punters bet the most. However, Irish punters typically prefer betting on overseas competitions, such as the Champions League or the English Premier League.

What football tournaments do Irish punters bet on the most?

As we’ve mentioned, most football enthusiasts in Ireland enjoy betting on international competitions. Take a look at the most popular championships and tournaments in the country:

League of Ireland

The League of Ireland Premier Division is the top tier of professional football in Ireland. Established in 1985, it features 10 teams competing annually. It goes without saying that Irish are passionate for their local teams, and some of the famous clubs include Shamrock Rovers and Linfield FC.

Premier League

The Premier League is the top level for men’s football in English. It consists of 20 teams and takes place from August to May.

FA Cup

The FA Cup is one of the most diverse tournaments in England. Every team can participate – from the Premier League to the 10th level of English football.

UEFA Champions League

The Champions League is an elite competition featuring contestants from the best European leagues. Overall, it has 32 teams that face each other in five rounds.

UEFA Europa League

UEFA Europa League, previously known as the UEFA Cup, the Europa League is the second most popular European competition. It features 48 teams who compete in six rounds

FIFA World Cup

The World Cup is the most prestigious football competition. It happens once every four years, featuring 32 teams who qualify for a spot across their respective continental tournaments.

Bundesliga

Bundesliga, the German top football league is consistently delivering great games and German clubs are battling it out with other top European clubs for the Champions League.

Serie A

Italian Serie A is one of the best football leagues in the world featuring 20 teams. It was founded in 1898, it has a rich history with clubs like Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan. The Italian style of football is for tactical play and strong defences.

La Liga

La Liga also has a long history, as it was founded in 1929. Among its 20 teams, are clubs like Real Madrid and Barcelona it’s also popular among Irish punters.

What other sports are popular for betting in Ireland?

In addition to football, sports enthusiasts in Ireland also enjoy betting on other sports, including Gaelic football, horse racing, hurling, snooker, and greyhound racing.

Is online betting legal in Ireland?

Yes. Online betting has been legal in Ireland since 2015. The organisation responsible for overseeing the activity of online bookmakers operating in the country is the Irish Revenue Commissioner.

Are Irish football betting sites trustworthy?

Yes. Ireland has multiple trustworthy sites. Many online bookmakers operating in the country are licensed and regulated by strict gambling commissions, like the Irish Revenue Commissioner, and benefit from a long-standing reputation.

Our top 5 tips for football betting in Ireland

Improve the way you bet with tips for sports betting in Ireland:

Record the bets you place: Recording your bets on a spreadsheet can help prevent future mistakes. The information to keep includes the bet placed, the odds, the amount staked and if you won it or not.
Set a budget before betting: One of the most important rules in sports betting is that you should never bet more than you afford to. Only bet an amount you don’t mind losing.
Look into value betting: Value betting is a strategy that involves calculating your own odds and comparing them between different bookmakers. If the bookie’s odds are most beneficial, your bet has value.
Use free bets to your advantage: Free bets are one of the favourite sports betting bonuses for Irish punters. You can use free bets to wager on football without risking real money.
Read the latest news: Reading the news can bring you up to speed regarding transfers, injuries, and other important details.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Best golf betting sites in Ireland: Get the best odds and bonuses

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:30 +0000

If you’re looking for golf betting sites in Ireland, you definitely won’t leave your search empty-handed.

There are several high-quality options to choose from, each of them striving to offer the best odds, and promotions like free bets, matches with cash out, in-play offers, and, of course, the most lucrative welcome bonuses. This article will give you other superb sites to include in your roster of high-quality bookies. Check our review and find out more.

Best golf betting sites

These are our top picks:

A closer look at the top-rated Irish golf betting sites

Have a look at the best options at the moment for sites featuring golf tournaments. Compare the availability of tournaments, bonuses, and the most important feature of each bookmaker.

1. LeoVegas

LeoVegas has a great sports section, even though it’s better known as an online casino. Golf fans will find it more than adequate since it covers major golf events like the PGA Tour, Ryder Cup, US Open and the Masters. You’ll have plenty of betting options available, like an outright winner, to finish within the top 10, matchups, and many more.

Pros	Cons
Hundreds of betting offers available	Few tournaments available
Reputable licence (UKGC) and multiple business awards
Welcome bonus: 30 EUR worth of Free Bets

2. 10bet

10bet is an online sportsbook that’s known for providing great odds, including ones for golf tournaments and competitions. It usually covers the Open Championship, US Open, Ryder Cup, USPGA Championship, Solheim Cup, the US Masters, and more each year.

The golf section of this bookie is conveniently organised by Live Bets, Top Leagues, All Leagues, and Daily Match List.

Pros	Cons
Multiple tournaments available	Wagering requirement of 5x (specific bets only)
Mobile app available
Welcome offer: 50% deposit match bonus up to 50 EUR

3. kwiff

kwiff is a betting site licenced by the UK Gambling Commission. It has both in-play offers and a wide selection of golf markets. If you are a golf fan, you’ll be happy to hear that it also covers the US Masters, the PGA Championship, the US Open, the Open Championship, Ryder Cup, and Solheim Cup.

Pros	Cons
In-play offers for two competitions at the moment	Few payment methods are available
Long-term bets for six other tournaments on the calendar
Welcome bonus: Bet 10 EUR, get 20 EUR (for market odds higher than 1.50)

4. Luckster

Luckster has its golf section divided into “All Leagues” and “Men”. It’s great to see that it covers women’s professional events. Luckster also covers other major competitions such as the US Open, the US Masters, the USPGA Championship, the Open Championship, and the Ryder Cup. Luckster also provides live bets.

Pros	Cons
Men’s and women’s competitions	Meagre welcome bonus
VIP membership (Exclusive Club)
Wide selection of markets

5. bet-at-home

This betting site has quite a few in-play offers, as well as outrights. There are also betting promotions and cashout features.

On the top of the golf page, you’ll find various regions and currently available tournaments. Bet-at-home has great odds for Ryder Cup, and offers a secure MGA-licensed platform for bettors in Ireland.

Pros	Cons
Varied and well-organised golf section
Live betting
Welcome bonus with up to €200 match

6. Betsafe

Betsafe covers important golf events overall, including Valero Texas Open, The Masters, PGA Championship and more. The platform is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority and it’s a popular spot for Irish punters. It also has an online casino available for Irish players.

Pros	Cons
Major tournaments available	No live streaming
Mobile app available for Android and iOS
Sportsbook and casino promotions

7. Bethard

Bethard has a few options for fantasy golf, with tournaments like the Masters and the Open. The company has been operating since 2012, and it’s licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). It’s possible to find in-play offers in the Live Betting section.

Pros	Cons
Fantasy golf available	Limited live betting available
Live chat available for non-clients
Welcome bonus: 100% deposit match up to 100 EUR

8. NetBet

NetBet always has at least several tournaments available for betting, where punters can already place long-term bets. Netbet has been in the market since 2001, so you can be assured of excellent service here.

Pros	Cons
Nine tournaments available for long-term betting	Few promotions available
Over 20 years in the business	No live streaming
Welcome bonus: 20 EUR Free bet – Bet 20 EUR to qualify

9. TonyBet

TonyBet has a platform that provides a great user experience and covers major golf tournaments such as the PGA Championship, Solheim Cup , The Open Championship, The US Open, and the US Masters. However, only outrights are offered for those competitions. TonyBet has quite an interesting bonus scheme, which includes a VIP program.

Pros	Cons
User-friendly website	Golf markets variety
VIP program
Welcome bonus: 100% deposit match up to 100 EUR

10. 888sport

888sport offers dozens of betting markets for every golf competition; Final-Result and Round Leader are among the most popular ones. Diehard fans of the sport can also take their chances betting on Virtual Golf.

Pros	Cons
A long list of betting markets for each tournament	No VIP membership
Virtual golf option	Limited golf betting markets
Welcome bonus: Bet 10 EUR and 30 EUR in free bets

How does scoring in golf work?

A round of golf can have 18 holes or fewer, depending on the format. Since the players must “hole” the balls with the least possible strokes, the player with the lowest score wins the match.

Each hole has a “par” number, showing how many strokes it should take to hit the ball down the hole. The overall score is calculated based on the number of strokes each player took; if they were under-par or over-par. When someone manages to land the ball in a hole on their first swing, it’s called a Hole in One.

What are the most popular golf tournaments to bet on?

There are a few major tournaments in the international calendar to follow closely if you’re planning to bet on golf. Read about the history and format of the most important ones below.

PGA Championship

The PGA Championship is one of the most traditional golf competitions in the United States. The Professional Golfers Association of America was created back in 1916, and the first competition organised by it was held in the same year. The PGA Championship has changed its format a lot over the years. The PGA always invites the Top 100 players from the world ranking for its championship.

The PGA Championship qualifies automatically all PGA champions, and winners from the past five editions of the US Open, the US Masters, and the Open Championship, and the US Masters; the winners from the last three editions of The Players Championship, and the current Senior PGA champion are also included. The tournament is usually in courses in the eastern part of the United States.

Register at 888sport and bet on PGA Championship.

US Masters

The first edition of the US Masters was played in 1934, and it’s a money event, like the Japan Golf Tour or the European Tour. This competition is an invitational event, organised by the Augusta National Golf Club. This tournament is famous for its unique traditions, like the green jacket that’s awarded to the winner. It’s later stored in a special cloakroom.

The competition was originally called the Augusta National Invitation Tournament and had a top prize of USD 1,500. In the 2021 edition, the top prize was USD 2,070,000, with a prize pool of USD 11,500,000. The top prize amount has increased greatly over the past decade. Niklaus and Tiger Woods are the big names of the competition, with six and five victories, respectively.

US Open

The US Open is the oldest golf competition in America. The first edition was played in 1895, on a course with only nine holes. The competition is open to professional and amateur players that meet the qualification criteria, which includes a handicap lower than 1.4, according to the USGA Handicap Index. Typically, 156 players take part in the competition every year.

The US Open has had 18 holes and 72 strokes since 1898, and the player with the lowest number of strokes wins. The competition is organised by the USGA and usually takes place in mid-June, if not delayed by bad weather. This competition welcomes not only the winners from previous years but also the winners of the US Mid-Amateur and US Junior Amateur competitions.

British Open

The British Open, also called The Open Championship, or simply “The Open”, is the oldest golf competition in the world. The championship was born in Scotland, in 1860, and it’s the only one of the four men’s major Opens held outside the United States.

The name originally implied that the competition was “open” to everyone. Nowadays, participation in the competition is a privilege for top professional players, plus a handful of amateur players brought in by qualification or invitation.

The British Open also has a few traditions, like playing on golf courses by the coast. The golf course in St. Andrews, Scotland, is the oldest in the world, and it still receives the British Open once every five years.

What golf tournaments can I bet on in Ireland?

Golf is also very popular in Ireland, and also has attracted scores of fans there since the late 19th century. The country hosts one of the oldest tournaments in the world and also has had an organised golf association for more than a century. It means that Irish punters also have local options when it comes to betting on a professional tournament.

There are three main professional competitions in the country, namely the Irish PGA, the Barton Shield, and the Irish Open. In this section, you’ll learn the history and the basics of each of them.

Irish PGA

This competition used to be called the Irish Professional Championship or, more informally, the Irish Professional Close. It premiered in 1907, and it’s among the oldest golf tournaments in the world. It’s the oldest one in Ireland, and it’s not much younger than the British Open. The editions of 2008, 2009, and 2010 were sponsored by Ladbrokes. Last year’s edition was won by Damien McGrane.

The format of the Irish PGA has changed over the years. In the beginning, it was a match-play event, changing to the stroke-play format in 1910. Harry Bradshaw and Christy O’Connor are the greatest winners of the competition, with 10 titles each. Among the top winners of our generation, there’s Padraig Harrington and Des Smyth, with six victories each.

Register at kwiff and bet on Irish PGA.

Barton Shield

The Barton Shield is a competition inaugurated in 1911, and it’s played by the club’s top four players. Those players play against each other in two Foursomes Matchplay. The result is defined by the accumulated score of both matches. Last year’s edition was played at Tramore Golf Club.

Irish Open

This competition premiered in 1927, and it’s now named Horizon Irish Open for its current sponsorship. The Irish Open was played regularly between its creation and 1953, but had a hiatus of over two decades, coming back in 1975. This tournament is also part of the European Tour Rolex Series, the only European Tour event held in Ireland.

The tournament usually happens between May and August. It has a high attendance rate; in 2010, it was only seconded by the BMW PGA Championship, with audience numbers above 85.000. The latest winner of the Irish Open is Adrian Meronk, with a score of 268 (par-20).

The Irish Open is also part of The Open Qualifying Series, where the top 3 players who have never qualified get into The Open, along with the top 10 players of that edition. This rule has been up since 2014 and was disregarded only in 2016.

Find the best golf betting sites in Ireland with our guide.

What are the most popular betting markets for golf?

If you don’t know where to start on this sport, check some of the punters’ favourite options below.

Outright winner bet

An outright bet is a bet on the winner of an entire competition. It’s usually a long-term bet, and punters can choose the winner among all the participants, each of them with assigned odds.

Place your outright winner bet at TonyBet.

Each-way bet

An each-way bet is the combination of two different bets: a place bet and a winning bet. This kind of bet allows punters to receive part of the prize if one of your bets fails, but the other succeeds.

Tournament winner bet

Tournament winner is another way to call an outright winner bet, where you must choose who’s going to be the final winner of that competition.

Hole-in-one bet

It’s considered a long-shot bet, and it’s a common option in most golf competitions. Due to the huge number of competitors in nowadays’ tournaments, the odds of guessing a hole-in-one bet are small.

First-round leader bet

Choose the player who will top the table after the first round of the tournament. Typically, this kind of bet reflects on the odds of the players with higher winning chances.

Golf prop bets

Prop bets aren’t always related to the final score of the match or tournament. Instead, you can bet on markets like who’ll have the best score of the round, or a specific player to score above or under a certain score.

How to bet on golf

Betting on golf has never been easier. Make sure to compare the odds on different bookmakers before placing your bet.

Sign up on a betting site
Top up your account
Go to the golf section
Choose a competition
Choose a betting market
Place your bet

How to choose the right golf Irish betting site

The best betting site will have a wide range of options for golf tournaments and betting markets that include long-term bets, in-play bets, and other special offers. A top-notch betting site also has convenient payment methods, short timeframes for withdrawals, and attractive promotions. We have a wide range of reviews to help you find the right bookie for you.

What is the best golf betting site?

Betsafe comes at the top in this review, for a variety of tournaments readily available for outright bets, plus live betting options for ongoing competitions. Betsafe offers a mobile app for Android and iOS users.

Where can I make finishing position golf bets?

Finishing position bets are very common options in high-level sports betting sites like those mentioned in this review. For example, bet365 has options for Top 10, Top 20, and Top 40 finishes.

Which bookmaker offers the best golf odds?

10bet has more betting markets, and also the best odds, with boosted parlay options for final positions, lead after the second and third rounds, and top golfer by category.

Which bookmaker offers the best each-way terms on golf?

LeoVegas offers 1/5 each-way bets for finishing positions, as well as 888sport and 10bet.

Who are the best Irish golf players?

Ireland has given birth to many top-quality golf players. The five ones mentioned here stand clearly above the rest, as the all-time best players in the country. Check their titles here.

5. Christy O’Connor

1 European Tour win

4. Darren Clarke

14 European Tour wins
3 PGA Tour wins
1 major win

3. Graeme McDowel

11 European Open wins
4 PGA Tour wins
1 major win

2. Padraig Harrington

15 European Tour wins
6 PGA Tour wins
3 major wins.

1. Rory McIlroy

14 European Tour wins
18 PGA Tour wins
4 major wins

What bonuses and promotions can I get for betting on golf?

Deposit match bonuses and free bets are among the most popular promotions offered by online bookies. It’s also possible to find in-play offers and cashouts.

Which bookmaker covers the most golf events?

Bethard is the sports betting site with the most golf events. There are plenty of international competitions to choose from depending on the golf season.

Which bookmaker offers the most golf markets?

10bet is the online bookie with the most markets available, including six special offers. There, you’ll find 18-hole matchups finishing positions for the Top 10, Top 20, and Top 40.

Which bookmakers offer golf in-play betting?

All bookmakers that offer live betting have in-play offers for certain matches. Although it isn’t easy to find online bookmakers with live streaming, live bets are pretty common. Currently, you can find in-play offers at 10bet, Luckster, and Bethard.

What golf events are there to bet on?

The platforms mentioned above have options for major golf competitions like Open Championship, US Open, Ryder Cup, USPGA, Solheim Cup, and the US Masters.

Our top tips for betting on golf

There are many ways to bet on golf and many things to consider, but in the end, it isn’t rocket science. Check below the five tips you must remember before placing any bet.

Compare odds and payouts
Research about the event and players involved
Compare in-play offers for live bets
Research about different betting markets
Bet responsibly

Final thoughts

Irish punters who love golf have a wide variety of top-quality online bookies to choose from when it comes to betting on golf. You’ll find all the major events on the calendar, and even virtual golf, as it’s the case of 888sport. In any case, it’s important to learn in-depth about the competition you wish to bet on.

Picking one favourite competition at a time allows you to learn more about it, and therefore make smarter bets. All online bookmakers mentioned here also have sites that are optimised for mobile devices, although not all of them have a mobile app.

While platforms like Betsafe have their apps available on Play Store and Apple Store, other bookies offer their apps for download via their websites.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Best Grand National betting sites: Tips and offers for Irish punters

James Anderson — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:27 +0000

If you love the thrill of National Hunt horse racing, you can’t miss the Grand National. The legendary competition takes place at the world-famous Aintree Racecourse on April 13th 2023.

Jockeys and horses have been preparing for the race, but so have the best bookies in Ireland, including Spreadex, kwiff, 10bet, and 888sport.

Online bookmakers have everything it takes to make the Grand National one of the top races to bet on, ranging from competitive odds to exciting promotions, including deposit bonuses and free spins.

Are you on the fence about betting on the Grand National? If so, we have a solution. Our guide offers in-depth information about the top bookies, odds, and strategies. We also have a few tips to ensure you make the most out of this prestigious event. Let’s get started.

Best Grand National betting sites Ireland: Top Grand National offers & odds

If you haven’t picked a bookmaker to bet on the Grand National, don’t worry – we have great news. Here are the best online bookmakers for Irish horse racing enthusiasts:

How we chose the best Grand National sites for Irish punters: methodology

We have one goal: to ensure Irish punters have access to the best online bookies in the country. To achieve this, we came up with a testing method that evaluates several criteria, including:

Grand National offers – We looked into every aspect of the Grand National, including exclusive bonuses, the fairness of the odds, and the variety of betting markets.
Welcome bonuses and other promotions – We want you to have a pleasant experience if you’re planning on betting on other events besides the Grand National. We also test other offers and promotions.
Licencing and site security – Staying safe is crucial when betting online. We only recommend bookmakers with an outstanding reputation and strict licences.
Customer support – If you’re having issues with a betting site, it’s always ideal to contact customer support. We thoroughly test bookies regarding the customer service’s expertise and responsiveness.
Mobile responsiveness – Imagine betting on your mobile device while you watch the Grand National. If it seems like a great idea, you’re in luck! We ensure our recommended betting sites offer a solid mobile gambling experience.

Grand National Festival betting sites: taking a closer look

This is what you came for: to learn about the best online betting sites for the 2023 Grand National. We selected five out of 10 bookmakers for a short yet detailed review. Here’s what to expect:

1. 10bet

10bet is a reputable bookmaker known for its fair odds. The online bookie also has an extensive horse racing selection, featuring the most competitive events, such as the Grand National. It has everything you could ask for, including exciting welcome bonuses and exclusive horse racing offers.

Pros	Cons
Wide variety of horse racing events	Customer support is slow to reply to queries
Competitive betting odds
Fun bonuses with fair requirements

2. kwiff

kwiff differs from your traditional online bookmaker. The betting site features an exclusive bonus that has the chance of boosting every aspect of your bets, such as the odds and the payouts. It also has an intuitive betting section with information about the horses and jockeys.

Pros	Cons
Innovative betting bonuses	Events are only displayed a couple of days in advance
Apps for iOS and Android
Detailed statistics section

3. Betsafe

You can’t go wrong with Betsafe, as it features a special horse racing section where you can view more information about horses you want to bet on with a single click. This betting site also has diverse betting markets, including forecast bets. Overall, it’s a great website with an extensive sportsbook and some excellent promotions for both new and existing players.

Pros	Cons
Has forecast bets	Website design is a little dull
Useful statistics
Top notch website security

4. NetBet

Compared to other bookies on our list, NetBet is rather simple, as it doesn’t have detailed statistics or dedicated horse racing bonuses. Still, it’s a viable choice for punters in Ireland thanks to its fair odds and solid reputation. The bookmaker also has a great free bet welcome bonus.

Pros	Cons
Free bet bonus without wagering requirements	The site only has outright and each-way bets
Fair and competitive horse racing odds
Has future bets for the largest events

5. 888sport

Every sports betting fan knows 888sport. The bookmaker is a popular option among horse racing enthusiasts for its dedicated bonuses, including weekly free bets. The site also has a wide variety of betting markets, such as forecast and tricast bets.

Pros	Cons
Has forecast and tricast bets	Lack of ante-post betting options
Outstanding reputation in the betting industry
Weekly horse racing free bets

Grand National betting tips and strategy for Ireland

Major events like the Grand National are known for being compatible with several bets. Here are the most common bets you’ll find at horse racing bookies in Ireland:

Outright winner – This is the most straightforward bet you can make. In simple terms, it requires predicting who will win the race.
Each-way – These bets allow you to wager that a horse will place in top four, five, or six. However, the odds are cut to one-fifth if your selected horse doesn’t win.
Forecast and tricast – Although they’re not as common, forecasts and tricasts are also incredibly popular. They allow you to guess what the finishing order will be for the first, second, and third positions.

One of the best horse racing strategies requires choosing one top horse, a couple of mid-tier horses, and a few underdogs. Then, place an outright on each horse and you’ll cover most of the playing field.

How can I place a bet on the Grand National from Ireland?

Placing a bet on the Grand National shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. Here’s how you should proceed:

Choose an Irish bookie from our list and create a new account.
Enter the required information and verify your details.
Make your first deposit using your preferred payment method.
Head over to the horse racing section and select the Grand National race.
Choose your horse and place your bet.

Where can I watch the Grand National from Ireland?

The Grand National will be available via RacingTV and ITV Racing. The event can be streamed on any device with an internet connection, including computers and mobile devices. RacingTV is also available on Sky (channel 426) and Virgin Media (channel 536). You can watch ITV Racing on channel 103 for Sky and Virgin Media.

Like football? Check out the best Irish football betting sites here.

Bet on the Grand National | 18+ BeGambleAware.org, Please play responsibly

When is the Grand National?

The 2023 Grand National Festival will take place at the Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool between the 13th and 15th of April. The main event, the Grand National race, is scheduled for April 15th, at 5:15 PM.

How do Irish punters get a free bet for the Grand National?

Many online bookmakers in Ireland offer punters the chance to bet on the Grand National with free bets, including NetBet and Betsafe. To receive a free bet at NetBet, you’ll have to sign up for an account and deposit a minimum of €20. You can get weekly free bets at Betsafe by placing horse racing bets throughout the week with minimum odds of 1.70.

What are some famous Grand National fences?

The Grand National race has 16 fences. Throughout the years, many fences have won a special place in enthusiasts’ hearts, including Becher’s Brook, Canal Turn, and Valentine’s Brook.

The Becher’s Brook fence is named after a jockey who landed in the ditch in the first Grand National race, Martin Becher. Canal Turn is named after the Leeds-Liverpool canal and the intense 90-degree turn after the jump. Valentine’s Brook got its name from Valentine, a horse who supposedly jumped the fence with its hind legs.

Golf fans head over here for the best Irish golf betting sites.

What are the best horses for Irish punters to bet on for the Grand National?

At the time of writing, Corach Rambler (6/1), Noble Yeats (8/1), Delta Work (10/1) and Any Second Now (10/1) are the top horses to win the Grand National. You can’t go wrong with any of these choices.

Which Irish bookies have the best Grand National offers?

It depends on what you’re looking for. If you prefer betting with free bets, consider signing up for an account at 10bet and NetBet. However, if you’re a fan of deposit bonuses and other sports betting offers, we suggest betting at Betsafe and kwiff.

Who are the previous Grand National winners?

Check out the Grand National winners and their jockeys, since 2016:

2022 – Noble Yeats (Sam Waley-Cohen)
2021 – Minella Times (Rachael Blackmore)
2019 – Tiger Roll (Davy Russell)
2018 – Tiger Roll (Davy Russell)
2017 – One For Arthur (Derek Fox)
2016 – Rule The World (David Mullins)

How many races will there be at the Grand National Festival?

The Grand National Festival will host 21 races between April 13th and 15th. As expected, the main event is the Grand National Chase, which will take place on April 15th at 5:15 PM.

How much does the winner of the Grand National get?

The prize money for the winner of the 2023 Grand National is £561,000 (€637,655). This makes it one of the most generous prizes across horse racing. The race has a prize pool worth £1,000,000 (€1,136,597).

Who is the most iconic winner of the Grand National?

There are two factors to answer this question: horses and jockeys. The most iconic winner of the Grand National is Red Rum, the only horse to ever win three times – 1973, 1974, and 1977. When it comes to jockeys, Davy Russell is often considered the best in recent years, having won the race in 2018 and 2019.

Tuning in from the UK? Take a look at the best Grand National betting sites for UK players.

Our top 5 tips for betting on the Grand National in Ireland

Are you looking to make the most out of the 2023 Grand National? We’ve got your back. Here are a few tips to improve your bets:

Avoid betting on odds over 100/1: The longest winning odds at the Grand National is 100/1. Throughout history, only five horses with these odds won the race. It’s unlikely a horse with higher odds than 100/1 will win.
Don’t bet on horses with top weight: The Grand National follows a handicap format, with the top-rated horses carrying the most weight. Statistics say horses carrying top weight are extremely unlikely to win.
Choose horses that previously won: Statistically speaking, horses that have previously won at the Aintree Racecourse are more likely to do it again.
If you’re unsure, go with a each-way bet: Each-way is a good way to decrease the risk of your horse racing bets. However, don’t forget you’ll only be paid a fifth of the odds.
Always be aware of your limits: Horse racing is fun, but it can also be addictive. We recommend setting up a bankroll and sticking to it, even if your bets lose.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Irish Grand National betting – Top 2024 Irish Grand National odds and tips

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:25 +0000

There may be no British representation in this year’s race, but each of the big Irish yards will be looking to make their presence felt, with Willie Mullins aiming for his third win from the last four renewals of the contest.

The Cheltenham Festival may be over, but the top-class jumps racing action continues to pour in for punters, with the Irish Grand National taking centre stage at Fairyhouse on Easter Monday.

Much like its Aintree counterpart, the Irish National offers a stern test of stamina and often proves to be a solid pointer for future English Nationals – with Numbersixvalverde the last horse to complete the double at Aintree in 2006, a year after winning the Irish version.

With 26 horses set to take their chance on forecast heavy ground at the time of writing, the betting market for the Irish Grand National is set to be a lively one. With that in mind, we’ve taken a look at the latest Irish Grand National tips and betting offers and listed everything you need to know below in this handy guide.

Irish Grand National betting sites: Our top picks

Here are some of our favourite betting sites for horse racing.

Irish Grand National winner odds

With 26 runners set to take their chance at the time of writing, the betting odds for the 2024 BoyleSports Irish Grand National are wide open. Plenty are in with a shout, though the current favourite Nick Rockett represents Willie Mullins, who has won two of the last four renewals.

It’s possible to make a case for a large number of those set to take their chance on Monday, so we have listed the top 10 horses in the Irish Grand National betting below. Please note that all odds listed are subject to change between now and race time.

NICK ROCKETT (Willie Mullins) at 4/1 with William Hill
INTENSE RAFFLES (Thomas Gibney) at 8/1 with BetUK
HARTUR D’ARC (Gavin Cromwell) at 9/1 with bet365
SENIOR CHIEF (Henry De Bromhead) at 9/1 with Coral
DESERTMORE HOUSE (Martin Brassil) at 10/1 with Sky Bet
YEAH MAN (Gavin Cromwell) at 10/1 with Betfred
ANY SECOND NOW (Ted Walsh) at 12/1 with Betfair
WE’LLHAVEWAN (Willie Mullins) at 16/1 with BetVictor
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN (Gordon Elliott) at 16/1 with Unibet
FAVORI DE CHAMPDOU (Gordon Elliott) at 20/1 with BetMGM

Our top Irish Grand National betting tip

The Irish Grand National is one of the toughest conundrums around for punters to solve, with the race often producing an unpredictable winner.

The 2021 and 2022 winners returned at 150/1 and 40/1 respectively, but we feel that it could be worth siding with a well-fancied runner for a yard that won this with Commanche Court in 2000.

Back ANY SECOND NOW each-way at 12/1 with BetUK

In a race where plenty of the market principals are inexperienced chasers, it could be worth siding with the admirable veteran Any Second Now each-way.

The 12-year-old has been something of a regular in the staying chasing sphere for a number of years, finishing third behind Minella Times in the 2021 English Grand National and second behind Noble Yeats at Aintree a year later.

Admittedly, his best days are behind him these days, but he’s still a useful performer in his own right, showing plenty of spark when a staying on sixth in the trial for this in bottomless conditions at Punchestown in February.

He will arrive here sharp for this having kept fit over an inadequate trip over hurdles at Naas in March and has very much been given a chance by the handicapper here, as he’s able to take his chance off a mark of 140.

That figure is 19lbs lower than his run in the 2022 Aintree National and he certainly doesn’t have any worries on his side in terms of either the stamina or jumping departments. The 12-year-old has long been campaigned with big targets in mind and with this likely to turn into a stern test, it would be no surprise to see him thrive in the conditions.

Connections know how to win this race, with Ted Walsh being successful in 2000 and owner JP McManus winning this twice this century, and with four places on offer, it looks worth backing Any Second Now each-way in the Irish Grand National at 12/1 with BetUK.

Place an each-way bet on Any Second Now at 12/1 with BetUK

Who are the most prominent contenders for the 2024 Irish Grand National?

The Irish Grand National is one of the most difficult puzzles of the Irish jumps racing season for punters to solve and this year’s renewal looks no different.

It’s been something for a mixed bag for punters in the race of late and while I Am Maximus (2023) and Burrows Saint (2019) have justified strong market support in recent years, both Freewheelin Dylan (2021) and Lord Lariat (2022) have also caused huge shocks at 150/1 and 40/1 respectively.

This year’s race looks a wide open renewal, so to help you out we have taken a look at the chances at the top four horses in the betting for you below.

Nick Rockett, 4/1 with William Hill (Trainer: Willie Mullins, Jockey: TBC)

New to the chasing scene having made just three starts over fences so far but has quickly made an impression, getting off the mark in good style in a beginners chase over two miles and five furlongs here on New Year’s Day. Has since performed with plenty of credit when second to the more experienced American Mike in a Grade 2 novice contest over three miles at Navan in February, when giving the impression that stamina was his trip.

This is a big ask on just his fourth start over fences, but his trainer won this in recent years with the similarly inexperienced Burrows Saint and I Am Maximus. His opening handicap mark certainly isn’t generous but it’s hard to imagine that there isn’t plenty to come from this seven-year-old, and his strength in the market is ominous.

Place a bet on Nick Rockett at 4/1 with William Hill

Intense Raffles, 8/1 with BetUK (Trainer: Thomas Gibney, Jockey: TBC)

Experienced six-year-old who has made a good impression since moving over from France, winning back-to-back staying novice contests at this track for his new yard in in January and February. The form is proving strong, too, with the first of those victories was boosted by the runner-up Where It All Began going on to win the Grand National Trial at Punchestown. Appeals as the type to have no trouble with the extra five furlongs or so here and what looks a fair opening mark, he should have every chance for a yard that won this in 2012 with Lion Na Bearnai.

Bet on Intense Raffles at 8/1 with BetUK

Hartur D’arc, 9/1 with bet365 (Trainer: Gavin Cromwell, Jockey: TBC)

Improving seven-year-old who arrives here on a roll, having won back-to-back contests at Clonmel and Naas respectively so far this year. The latest of those wins came in a (Listed) regional national over three miles and a furlong on soft ground, giving the impression of a strong stayer. He has to carry a 9lbs higher mark here, though it would be no surprise to see further progress for his shrewd connections.

Bet on Hartur D’arc at 9/1 with bet365

Senior Chief, 9/1 with Coral (Trainer: Henry De Bromhead, Jockey: TBC)

Another lightly-raced chaser who has shown plenty of ability in three starts over fences so far, finishing third behind the subsequent Arkle winner Gaelic Warrior on chasing debut in November and second behind the 2022 Albert Bartlett runner-up Minella Cocooner on his second outing at Navan in January. Has since opened his account in a beginners chase on heavy ground over just shy of three miles at Punchestown in February, though he made heavy weather of things despite being long odds-on. Will likely have learned plenty from that and appeals as one who will be a smart performer in time, though his opening mark is tough enough and others make more appeal.

Bet on Senior Chief at 9/1 with Coral

Desertmore House, 10/1 with Sky Bet (Trainer: Martin Brassil, Jockey: TBC)

Useful staying chaser who has won three times from six starts over fences, with each of those victories coming over three miles or further. The latest of those wins came in the Kerry National at Listowel in September, when doing so in really good style. Struggled when upped in grade on his next two starts at Leopardstown and Naas respectively but took a step back in the right direction, when third in a Pertemps qualifier over two and three quarter miles in February. Will line up here 9lbs higher than for his last success but is likely to be suited by this stamina test and can’t be ruled out for a yard that won this with a subsequent Grand National winner (Numbersixvalverde) in 2005.

Bet on Desertmore House at 10/1 with Sky Bet

How to place a 2024 Irish Grand National bet

If you’re new to betting on the horse racing, placing your first bet can seem like a daunting task. It’s relatively simple once you know how to, however, and we’ve put together this quick step-by-step guide to help you out.

Sign into your betting account. If you don’t have one, there are plenty of good app suggestions on this page, such as the sponsors of the race BoyleSports.
If you need to create an account, select your bookmaker and click ‘sign up’ at the top of the page. Make sure you use any promotional codes needed to activate any sign up offers.
Once you have created your account, you need to select a horse in the Irish Grand National to bet on. You can view the form for free on sites like Racing Post and Timeform, while all of the runners and riders will also be available to view in the ‘horse racing’ section of your gambling site.
Navigate to the horse racing section and select the racing taking place at Fairyhouse on Monday 1st April 2024. Select the 5pm contest.
Once you have picked out a horse, add them to your betslip by clicking on the odds next to their name in the race card.
You should see the name of your selection appear. Enter the stake that you would like to bet on your horse and don’t forget to select ‘each-way’ if you would like to place an each-way bet on your selection.
Once you have entered your stake, the potential returns should appear in the bet slip. Once you are happy with everything, select ‘place bet’.
Your bet should be placed. Good luck!

Irish Grand National Trial best offers. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

Which sites have the best offers for Irish Grand National betting?

The BoyleSports Irish Grand National is a hugely popular betting race for punters and there are some great sign up offers available to use on the big race.

With so much competition on the market, each bookmaker offers something different with their Irish Grand National free bet offers, and we’ve picked out three which have caught our eye below.

BoyleSports

BoyleSports are the title sponsors of the Irish Grand National and new customers can get £20 in free bets when they sign up and stake £10 on the racing. To qualify, create a new account and place a £10 bet at minimum odds of evens on the horse racing. Once that bet has settled, your account will be credited with 1 x £20 free bet, which must be used within seven days of being credited.

Ladbrokes

New Ladbrokes customers can get £20 in free bets when they sign up and stake £5 on the sportsbook. To qualify, sign up for an account and stake £5 on the sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greater. Once the bet has settled, you will receive 4 x £5 free bets to use on the sportsbook.

Which jockey and trainer have been the most successful in the Irish Grand National?

With more than 150 years of history, the Irish Grand National is one of the key races in the Irish jumps racing calendar each year.

The race is often seen as a good pointer for the English Grand National, with each of Rhyme ‘n’ Reason (1985), Bobbyjo (1998) and Numbersixvalverde (2005) going on to win the Aintree equivalent later in their careers after winning at Fairyhouse.

Some iconic names have won the race over the years and the most successful trainer in the history of the Irish Grand National is the legendary Tom Dreaper.

Perhaps best known for training Arkle, Dreaper won this race a record 10 times with Prince Regent (1942), Shagreen (1949), Royal Approach (1954), Olympia (1960), Fortria (1961), Kerforo (1962), Last Link (1963), Arkle (1964), Splash (1965) and Flyingbolt (1966).

The most successful jockey in the Irish Grand National is Pat Taaffe, with six wins. Taaffe’s six Irish Grand National winners came courtesy of Royal Approach (1954), Umm (1955), Zonda (1959), Fortria (1961), Arkle (1964) and Flyingbolt (1966).

What type of race is the Irish Grand National?

Like its English namesake, the Irish Grand National is a staying handicap steeplechase, meaning that candidates need to have a mix of class and stamina if they are to win the race.

Run over a distance of three miles and five furlongs, the race offers a stern assessment of a horse’s stamina reserves, while the going tends to vary. It often proves to be testing ground, particularly if Easter falls early, making it something of a war of attrition.

The runners jump a total of 24 fences in the race, with a maximum of 30 runners on the card, though that number is likely to be significantly lower this year.

Which racecourse is the Irish Grand National held on?

The BoyleSports Irish Grand National has more than 150 years of history and is traditionally run at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Easter Monday. Because of this, the exact date of the race moves around each year depending on the placement of Easter calendar. It means that the ground conditions of the race can vary from year to year, though you generally need to be a smart stayer to win the race.

How to watch the Irish Grand National in 2024:

The Irish Grand National will take place at Fairyhouse Racecourse on Monday. The full address is Fairyhouse Racecourse, Fairyhouse Rd, Ballybin, Ratoath, Co. Meath, A85 XK30, Ireland.
The Irish Grand National is due off at 5.00pm on Easter Monday (Monday 1^st April 2024).
ITV Racing isn’t due to broadcast the race on Easter Monday, but British viewers can watch the Irish Grand National live on Racing TV. If you are based in Ireland, the race is also being shown live on RTE 2.

About the author

Nick Seddon

A sports journalist with more than a decade of experience, Nick has covered some of the biggest events in sport, from the Grand National and the Epsom Derby in horse racing to Walsall against Wigan Athletic in League One.

Follow Nick on X: @nickseddon_

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Best free spins casinos in Ireland: Top sign up bonuses in 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:22 +0000

Free spins are one of the best casino bonuses in Ireland.

The fact that you can use free spins to play your favourite slots without having to risk your money makes them incredibly fun.

With our guide, not only you’ll learn how to get started, but you’ll also discover the top free spins bonuses found at at Irish casinos.

Top free spins casinos in Ireland

Everyone loves playing with the best free spins bonuses. The good thing is that there are several great free spins casinos in Ireland. Look through our list below and choose your favourite:

How we picked the best free spins bonuses for Irish players

Just like with a slot machine in a land-based casino, free spins are one of the first things Irish players look for before signing up at an online casino. But that alone won’t ensure a pleasant gambling experience. Here’s how we look for the best online casino in Ireland:

Bonuses and promotions: Slot lovers also enjoy other offers besides free spins. Therefore, we also look for deposit bonuses, no deposit bonuses, and regular promotions. A bonus code is always a welcome opportunity!
Payout rates: Free spins awarded at registration or as part of a recurring deposit offer won’t do a player much good if the payout rates for the slot games available on the site are minuscule. Therefore, before you even start the registration process, look at the RTP for the type of slot game you’re planning on playing.
Mobile app: Gambling on the go is becoming increasingly popular among Irish players. We thoroughly check if the mobile experience of our recommended casinos is up to standard.
Payment options: First of all, casino players need to have access to plenty of options to deposit money and withdraw their earnings as part of their accounts. Only once that’s established do we evaluate the payment methods offered according to their speed, safety, and limits. We also check if they’re compatible with free spins bonuses.
Game selection: Players who enjoy playing with free spins are constantly looking for the best online casino games. We only recommend casinos with an outstanding game selection, including slots, table games, and live dealer titles. If you have a preferred game developer, look for their logo in the selection, and if you’re looking to try something new, read about the gaming experience and gameplay functionalities before staking any real money.
Customer support: If you’re having issues with a free spins bonus, it’s always best to contact support. We review the casinos’ customer support experience based on their contact methods and answering times.
Licensing and security: Choosing licensed casinos is the best way to stay safe. We always verify if our recommended casinos have a valid gambling licence.

A closer look at Irish casinos with free spins bonuses

We chose six of the top Irish online casinos for a closer look. Check out the best free spins bonuses:

1. QuickSlot

QuickSlot is a great option for slot enthusiasts. Although it doesn’t have a free spins welcome bonus, players can still claim spins on their favourite slots through the famous Pragmatic Play Drops & Wins promotion. The casino is also compatible with safe payment methods, including Skrill, Neteller, and paysafecard.

Pros	Cons
Portfolio with thousands of slots	No free spins as part of the welcome bonus
Safe payment options with fair limits
Compatible with cryptocurrencies

2. Casumo

Casumo is one of the most recognisable names in the iGaming industry. This casino is all about fun, especially if you enjoy free spins. It offers a generous welcome bonus with 50 free spins and regular offers based on your activity. There are also thousands of games to choose from.

Pros	Cons
Extensive reputation in Ireland	It doesn’t accept cryptocurrencies
It has various free spins bonuses
Outstanding game selection

3. Slotbox

Slotbox is one of the few Irish gambling sites with no deposit spins. Signing up at the casino will reward you with 25 free spins. You can also make a deposit to claim an additional 100 spins. The casino is a good option if you’re into crypto, as it accepts Bitcoin.

Pros	Cons
Compatible with Bitcoin	It has an offshore licence
Has a no deposit spins bonus
Exciting welcome bonus with fair requirements

4. SlotParadise

SlotParadise was made for players who love spinning the reels. Although it currently has no free spins bonuses, this gambling site is known for its generous welcome offers and regular promotions. It also comes with thousands of slots so you always find what you’re looking for.

Pros	Cons
Exciting welcome bonus of up to 250%	It currently has no free spins bonuses
High-quality game selection
Players can deposit and withdraw with Bitcoin

5. 10bet casino

10bet isn’t the first site you’d associate with free spins. The good news is that its casino section is packed with bonuses, including a welcome offer that gives you 50 free spins. It features nearly 1,000 slots from the best developers, such as Big Time Gaming and Red Tiger.

Pros	Cons
Licensed and regulated in Ireland	No free spins bonuses besides the welcome offer
Welcome bonus with 50 free spins
Outstanding reputation

How free spins bonuses work at Irish online casinos

Free spins give players the chance to play casino games without having to bet their own money. This bonus is usually offered after players sign up for an account and make their first deposit. Free spins can also be a part of a bonus for existing players and as one of the prizes for a VIP programme.

Players must meet several requirements to claim a free spin bonus, such as depositing over the minimum amount. They also have to wager their winnings a certain amount of times before being eligible to withdraw money won from the free spins.

How to sign up and claim free spins at Irish online casinos

Getting started at the best free spin casinos is effortless. Follow the steps below to claim your offer:

Pick one of our recommended gambling sites
Create an account and verify your identity
Make your first deposit and claim your free spins
Check the eligible games by reading the bonus terms and conditions
Choose a slot game and start spinning

What kind of free spins offers are there for Irish players?

Free spins are incredibly diverse, ranging from offers that don’t require a deposit to bonuses without wagering requirements. Discover how you can play your favourite online slots with these bonuses:

Free spins with a deposit

This is the most common free spin bonus in Ireland. You’ll have to deposit real money into your account to claim it.

No-deposit spins

As the name implies, no deposit spins don’t require a deposit. Simply claim it and you’ll be ready to bet on the best slots.

Regular free spins

Most free spins bonuses are only available as a welcome offer. Fortunately, several casinos will regularly reward players with regular bonuses.

No-wagering free spins

This is the best free spin bonus, as there are no wagering requirements. You don’t have to risk your winnings!

Free spins bonuses. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

Is there a time restriction on free spins at Irish casino sites?

Yes. Online casinos usually impose a time limit for players to claim, use, and complete the wagering requirements for free spins.

Is there a value limit for free spins at online casinos in Ireland?

Although there isn’t a limit, the spin value for free spins bonuses in Ireland typically varies between €0.10 and €0.20. The value for each free spin is mentioned in the casino’s bonus terms and conditions.

Can you win big from free spins?

Some gambling sites may limit the player’s maximum winnings when using free spins. But several casinos don’t have these limits, giving players the chance to win big. However, please note you can’t typically bet on jackpot slots with free spins.

Can I claim free spins more than once at Irish online casinos?

It depends on the gambling site. Some online casinos in Ireland only offer free spins as part of the welcome bonus. Luckily, other casinos offer great free spins promotions so you can keep the fun going. If the free spins are a part of the welcome bonus you can only claim that offer once.

Can I spend my free spins on mobile?

Yes. Free spins can be claimed on any device, desktop or mobile. It’s worth noting some gambling sites may have exclusive promotions for mobile players.

What other bonus types can I find at Irish casinos?

There are multiple ways to win prizes at Irish online casinos besides free spins. Here are some of the bonuses you can play with:

Deposit bonuses: Deposit bonuses usually match the players’ initial deposit. You must wager your bonus money a certain number of times before you can withdraw.
No deposit bonuses: Like no deposit spins, these offers also don’t require a deposit and you will get a little money to play on the site. However, the wagering requirements are usually higher.
Cashback: Cashback allows players to get a refund on their losses. This offer usually has no wagering requirements.

What RTP do slots with free spins have at Irish online casinos?

Most of the slots compatible with free spins are fair regarding their RTP percentage. You can expect an RTP of nearly 96% when playing these games.

What are the most popular slots for Irish players?

Throughout the years, many slots became known for their compatibility with free spins. The most popular games include Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, and Book of Dead.

What are the pros and cons of free spins bonuses?

Free spins are packed with advantages, otherwise they wouldn’t be one of the best bonuses in Ireland. However, there are also a few disadvantages to keep in mind. Check out the pros and cons of free spins:

No need to risk your funds
Chance to win real money prizes
Good way to try new slots for free
You’ll have to wager your winnings a certain amount of times before you can withdraw them
Free spins aren’t compatible with jackpot slots

Our top 5 tips for making the most of your free spins at Irish casinos

Are you looking to get started with the best free spin bonus? If so, here are five tips to ensure you enjoy the top free spins sites to the most:

Check which slots are eligible for free spins: Free spins aren’t compatible with all slots, especially jackpot games. You can check which games are compatible with your free spins by reading the bonus terms and conditions.
Choose the games with the highest RTP: The RTP rate states how much a slot will pay during its lifetime. It’s always good to choose slots with higher RTP.
Don’t forget the wagering requirements: You must complete the wagering requirements to withdraw your winnings. The wagering requirements can vary and you need to make sure what it is before you take advantage of the bonus.
Pay attention to the minimum deposit: You can only claim free spins if you deposit over the minimum amount. The terms and conditions offer more details about the bonus conditions.
Avoid chasing losses: It’s always a great idea to be responsible when gambling online. Avoid chasing losses, as that is wagering more to try to recoup losses.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Best casino cashback bonuses for Irish players in July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:12:18 +0000

Online casinos in Ireland value their customers. They focus on attracting new customers and rewarding those who stay with them.

One of the ways they do this is through cashback bonuses. These bonuses work by helping loyal players to recoup some of their losses.

This guide to cashback bonuses in Ireland aims to take you through everything you need to know about these bonuses. We will explain what they are, where to find the best ones, and how to use them responsibly.

Our team has reviewed some of the top casinos in Ireland for you so that you can quickly find their best offers. Read on to see how to make the most of these casino bonuses.

Top Irish casinos with cashback bonuses

With so many online casinos with cashback promotions available these days, it can be hard to find the right one. However, there’s no need to worry. We’ve taken some of the hard work out of it for you.

During our cashback casino review, we searched the internet for the best cashback casinos in Ireland. We know what to look out for, so we only recommend trusted and reputable casinos. Here are our top 5 sites:

How we selected the best Irish casinos with cashback bonuses

Having reviewed many casinos over the years, we’ve learnt what to look for. We only recommend casinos that are trustworthy, can be relied on to pay out, and operate legally. Here are some of the key things we look for when assessing a casino:

Safety and Licences

One of the best ways to know if the casino is trustworthy is to check for a valid licence. These licences are issued by internationally recognised gambling commissions who ensure that the casinos operate legally and that they adhere to responsible gambling guidelines.

Reputable organisations include the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). If a site has a licence from the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, even better.

Bonuses

One of the first things we check is a site’s bonuses. We don’t just look at the cashback bonus, but all promotions, and their terms and conditions (T&C) to ensure they’re fair. The T&C will include the wagering requirements, eligibility, maximum and minimum deposit amounts, time limits and any other restrictions that might apply.

Variety of games

Online casinos in Ireland with cashback bonuses usually focus heavily on slots. However, players like to have various other games to play. In addition to slots, we look for all the classic table games like roulette, blackjack, poker, and baccarat. We also like to see live table games and game shows like Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly Live.

Payment methods

Making a deposit or a withdrawal should be fast and simple when you join an online cashback casino in Ireland. Casinos should have the most popular methods like Visa and Mastercard. But they should also include some e-wallets like Neteller and PayPal.

Customer support

It’s important that players are able to get the information they need quickly and easily. Having good customer support can make the difference between a good casino and a really excellent one. When we review casinos we check for live chat, a help centre and email support.

Our reviews of the top online casinos with cashback bonuses in Ireland:

By now, you have a pretty good idea of how we’ve created our list of Ireland’s top 5 cashback bonus casinos. Let’s take a look at the top five cash back casinos in Ireland in more detail.

1. QuickSlot

QuickSlot casino has a huge selection of slots, table games and live games. Its cashback bonus offer is impressive; it has a 10% daily cashback bonus with no wagering requirement.

Pros	Cons
No cashback wagering requirement	No FAQs
Huge selection of games, including progressive jackpots
Good range of payment methods

2. Casumo

This is one of the big players in the casino world. Casumo has a fantastic 20% cashback offer on its live casino games. The offer runs from Thursday – Sunday, every week.

Pros	Cons
Licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)	Cashback offer has a cap of €100
€10 deposit to unlock cashback
Has slots, live games and sports betting

3. SlotParadise

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a casino with a wide selection of progressive jackpot slots. Slotparadise has over 70 on its site. It offers a 10% daily cashback bonus.

Pros	Cons
Cashback Bonus available daily	Cashback only applies to slots
Scratch cards available
Top games providers like Microgaming and Hacksaw Gaming

4. Need For Spin

Need For Spin is an accessible casino with a wide selection of slots and table games. The cashback bonus runs every Monday.

Pros	Cons
Cheerful site design	Wagering on cashback
Many games providers
Big sign-up bonus

What are cashback bonuses?

These bonuses let players claim either a certain percentage (eg. 10%) or up to a fixed amount (eg. €100) of their net losses back. The refund is paid as money into the player’s account.

How do cashback bonuses work?

If a player opts into a cashback bonus, they will receive a certain amount of money back depending on how much they have lost. The amount they receive back is dependent on the cashback offer itself.

Are online casino cashback bonuses legal in Ireland?

Yes, they are legal in Ireland. However, we highly recommend that players only use licensed casinos.

What types of cashback bonuses are there in Irish casinos?

There are a number of different types of cashback bonuses at casinos in Ireland. Let’s take a look at some of the ones you’ll find:

Cashback on a loss

With this type of bonus, the player receives cashback on their net losses at the casino. This is usually a percentage. For example, if a player claims a 10% cashback on a loss of €100, they will receive €10 back.

Best cashback bonuses | Begambleaware.org Please play responsibly

Cashback on special occasions

Casinos like to celebrate special occasions with their players. Sometimes they offer one-off cashback promotions at that time. For instance, there are often many promotions around St Patrick’s Day.

Cashback on specific events/games

When casinos promote a certain game or event, they can use cashback as an incentive to players. For example, the casino might offer cashback on a player’s losses from bets placed on a specific slot.

Cashback as a percentage

Here, the casino will specify what percentage of a player’s losses it will refund as part of the cashback offer. This can cover all wager types or be limited to specific game types, so cehck the terms.

Cashback as a fixed amount

In this instance, the casino will refund a player a fixed amount on their losses. They will need to meet any wagering requirements, time limits or other restrictions placed on the offer.

How to claim cashback bonuses in Ireland

Now that you’ve learnt all about these bonuses, you’re probably wondering how to claim one. Here’s our simple, step-by-step guide to claiming a cashback bonus in Ireland:

Find a licensed casino: The first thing to do is to find a legitimate casino with a cashback bonus offer. You can do this by using our list of top 5 cashback casinos in Ireland.
Sign up for an account: When you’ve found the right casino, you need to fill out the registration form on the casino site. Once this is completed, the casino will ask you to verify your account, which you must do to activate it.
Make a deposit: Most casinos will ask you to deposit a minimum amount before you can play. You should find a payment method that suits your requirements and make the minimum deposit.
Opt-in to the cashback bonus: Once your account is up and running and the minimum deposit has been made, you can sign up for your cashback bonus. You can usually find a page that lists all of the casino’s promotions and how to sign up for them.
Play the eligible games: Now you’re free to have fun playing the games. You should check which games are eligible for the cashback offer. This will vary from casino to casino and will be detailed in the terms and conditions.
Receive your cashback bonus: Once you’ve signed up for your bonus, you don’t need to do anything else to receive it. If you are eligible for cashback rewards, the casino will place the funds in your account if you have met all of the terms and conditions.

What are the advantages of cashback bonuses?

One of the great advantages of a cashback bonus is that it’s open to everyone. A welcome bonus, for instance, is only open to new players. Another great advantage of a cashback bonus in Ireland is that players can recoup some of their losses.

Finally, high-rollers can often get exclusive cashback bonuses, so it’s worth checking out the casino’s VIP level loyalty program.

Open to everyone
High-rollers can get exclusive cashback offers
Recoup some of your losses

What are the disadvantages of cashback bonuses?

The major disadvantage of cashback bonuses in Ireland is that you need to lose to be eligible for the bonus. Also, you typically only recover some of your losses by using the bonus.

Need to lose to receive bonus
Only receive a specified amount back

Can I get cashback on a win in Irish casinos?

No. Cashback is purely based on losses.

Do cashback bonuses in Irish online casinos have wagering requirements?

This depends on the bonus offer. Some cashback bonuses in Ireland have wagering requirements, and some don’t, but it will be clearly stated in the terms.

Are there limits on cashback bonuses in Ireland?

The casino will state if there are any limits or caps on a cashback bonus in Ireland. Usually, the bonuses are capped at a certain amount of losses.

What games can I play with cashback bonuses in Irish casinos?

This varies depending on the offer. Some cashback bonuses will apply to all games in Irish casinos, but some will only apply to specific games or a type of game.

Can I use cashback bonuses on live casino games?

You need to find a casino that offers cashback bonuses on live games, as not all do. You should complete the registration process and make your first deposit if you are not registered at the casino.

What other types of casino bonuses can I claim at Irish online casinos?

The types of bonuses available will depend on the individual casino. However, there are a variety of bonuses that casinos offer their players, including welcome bonuses, deposit match bonuses, free spins and reload promotions.

Our top 5 tips for making the most of your online casino cashback bonus in Ireland

If you like the look of the cashback deals we’ve highlighted and want to check out a recommended casino, keep these tips in mind:

Understand how much the cashback bonus can refund
Check for any wagering requirements
Make sure you’re playing within the time limits
The best strategy is to practise good bankroll management and set sensible limits
Remember to gamble responsibly and contact organisations like GambleAware if gambling becomes an issue.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Extern Problem Gambling – www.problemgambling.ie
Gamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org

Leon Edwards’ opponent plans to start brawl like Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Conor McGregor at UFC 304

Jordan Ellis — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:42:02 +0000

Belal Muhammad insists there’ll be no handshake with Leon Edwards after their rematch.

In fact, ‘Remember the Name’ says it’s highly like he’ll start a post-fight brawl with Edwards and his team after dethroning the welterweight champion at UFC 304 in Manchester on Saturday night.

Muhammad says a win won’t be enough to squash his beef with Edwards

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During a recent interview with MMA Junkie, Muhammad claimed he will ‘do the Khabib’ – referring to Nurmagomedov’s attack on Conor McGregor’s corner after submitting him at UFC 229 in October 2018.

A multi-person brawl subsequently ensued before Nurmagomedov and McGregor were both banned for several months for bringing the sport into disrepute.

“After the fight, I think I’m going to literally walk to his corner and do the Khabib thing,” Muhammad said.

“Throw my mouthpiece at them, laugh at them, point, and maybe hop over the fence and jump on his brother [Bellator fighter Fabian Edwards].”

Nurmagomedov and McGregor shared an intense rivalry over several years that saw them exchange insults, personal threats, and a famous incident involving a dolly and a bus.

While it was still unexpected, their post-fight brawl made sense.

Edwards and Muhammad haven’t been feuding on the same level, so the American’s plan has come as a shock to many.

The welterweight duo first fought as contenders back in March 2021.

All hell broke loose after Khabib beat McGregor

Getty

Muhammad has told fans to expect something similar at UFC 304

Getty

On that occasion, their clash ended inconclusively when Edwards inadvertently poked Muhammad in the eye, rendering him unable to continue.

Rather than do a rematch of their no-contest, ‘Rocky’ opted to face UFC legend Nate Diaz to secure his title shot at Kamaru Usman, who he famously KO’d with a head kick.

Two defences later, the Englishman has agreed to rematch Muhammad, but he feels like he’s been overlooked and disrespected by Edwards, hence his post-fight brawl plan.

The 36-year-old has won five consecutive fights since then to make himself the undeniable number-one contender at 170lbs.

Edwards thinks he will easily deal with Muhammad before booking bigger and better fights.

“I want to move up and challenge for a middleweight belt,” he told talKSPORT MMA ahead of UFC 304.

“I feel like I’ve got the size [for the middleweight division] and the skill for it so why not chase greatness.”

Dricus du Plessis is currently in possession of the 185lb strap and is set to defend it against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 on August 17.

There isn’t a clear top contender in the division once Du Plessis and Adesanya have settled their score so Edwards could get the winner if he emerges victorious over Muhammad.

Aston Villa line-up ex-Chelsea star once worth £113m as replacement for Moussa Diaby

Robert Calcutt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:33:00 +0000

Aston Villa are considering an ambitious move for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, talkSPORT understands.

Villa boss Unai Emery is a long-term admirer of the Portuguese star, who spent last season on loan at Barcelona.

Felix could be set for a Premier League return with Villa

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The club are set bank around £60million as Moussa Diaby, who only signed from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, is set to join Al Ittihad.

Felix could therefore be the man to replace him in their attack five years after he signed for Atletico Madrid from Benfica in a £113million deal, the fourth most expensive transfer ever.

It would see him make a return to the Premier League after he spent the second-half of the 2022/23 season on loan at Chelsea.

The 24-year-old scored four goals in 20 appearances in what proved to be a campaign to forget for the Blues as they finished 12th in the Premier League.

At Atletico Madrid, Felix has netted 34 goals and assisted another 18 across 131 appearances and won LaLiga with them in 2021, as well as being named as their Player of the Year in the following campaign.

He enjoyed a successful stint with Barcelona last season as he scored on ten occasions and provided another six assists.

However, he could be set to leave Spain for good this summer and join a Villa side who have already been active in the market.

Felix could become their eighth signing of the window so far, which has already seen them welcome Ian Maatsen from Chelsea.

Felix showed improved form during his loan spell at Barcelona

Getty

Cameron Archer, Samuel Iling-Junior, Enzo Barrenechea, Lewis Dobbin and Ross Barkley have also sealed moves to Villa Park.

Jaden Philogene arrived as their latest signing last week having returned from a year at Hull City, who will pocket £13.5million after Villa included a 30 per cent sell-on clause in their deal last summer.

Villa’s spending has been alleviated with the departure of Douglas Luiz to Juventus in a deal believed to be worth £42million, with Iling-Junior and Barrenechea heading the other way.

Tim Iroegbunam, Morgan Sanson and Viljami Sinisalo have also left permanently, with Calum Chambers exiting to Cardiff.

Philippe Coutinho has joined boyhood club Vasco da Gama on loan and Filip Marschall has signed with Crewe Alexandra until the end of the season.

Luke Littler pockets 200 times less prize money than Luke Humphries after winning local tournament

Ben Davies — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:30:09 +0000

Luke Littler returned to his local Cheshire Open tournament competition and ended up winning.

Littler has become a darting superstar since bursting on the scene at the start of the year by reaching the final of the World Darts Championship in his debut on the PDC Tour.

Instagram - Luke LittlerLittler returned to humble beginnings and had yet more success[/caption]

But he hasn’t forgotten his beginnings and the teenage star returned to play in amateur tournament, Cheshire Open, which he paid just £20 to enter at the Coppenhall Club.

To no surprise, ‘The Nuke’ ousted any form of competition, rallying to a routine win in the tournament, which would have been an uphill battle for any opponents.

Littler scooped £1,000 in total prize money for winning the low-price entry tournament, and posed with the trophy on social media.

The caption read: “Some weekend. Winning the warm up men’s event and the Cheshire open men’s singles.

“Good to see all my fellow teammates from Cheshire.”

It is 200 times less than Darts No.1. Luke Humphries, who pocketed £200,000 in total prize money for winning the World Matchplay, after he beat Michael Van Gerwen in the final.

Littler had crashed out of the competition in the opening round to Van Gerwen, but it was no shame given he still posted a sizeable 101 average.

‘Cool Hand’ sits at the top of the PDC Order of Merit, having banked £1,650,750.

Humphries won the latest darts major with serious brilliance

Getty

Littler sits behind Humphries with £314,500 in 24th, but has had an extremely positive year which includes victory in the Premier League.

Despite his form overall, the 17-year-old has come into surprising criticism after his performance against Van Gerwen.

This includes from semi-finalist James Wade, who hinted that he can see an inevitable brief collapse of the talented young star.

He told SportsBoom: “I heard Glenn Durrant say he’ll [Luke Littler] either dominate for only two years or over 10.

“I’m not sure which one it’ll be, but I do actually agree with that.

“Let’s be honest, Luke’s probably earned more money than most dart players, if not all dart players, in a year of his existence.

“So, he doesn’t need to play darts now. He’s influential and financially viable and a great pull. But I’m interested in seeing what he’s doing.

“He will have a downturn and that’s a hundred percent it’ll happen. He [Luke Littler] will struggle, and he will find things hard and then we’ll see what he’s really about.”

‘We have a role’ – Jake Paul offers rival Mike Perry new job after he was fired by Conor McGregor following brutal KO

Ben Davies — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000

Jake Paul has claimed Mike Perry can work for his company after being ‘fired’ by Conor McGregor.

The ‘Problem Child’ fought Perry who stepped in as a late replacement, and the influencer brutally knocked out the former UFC star in the sixth round.

Paul defeated Perry in dominant fashion

Esther Lin / MVP

After the defeat, BKFC shareholder McGregor took to social media to savagely claim the American was fired following his latest performance in the ring.

But Paul has attempted to allay fears that Perry could be unemployed, joking that he has a job at his media company Betr.

“Mike Perry, as you got fired by Conor McGregor from BKFC, we will hire you at Betr into a partnership and give you some sort of role,” he said.

“We’ll figure out what that’s going to be. Betr has a job for you, Mike Perry.

“We’re just giving him another stream of income. He can keep fighting.

“We can maybe start a podcast with him or something; we’ll figure it out.”

Perry would not have been impressed with McGregor’s record, given his BKFC record is impeccable with five wins and no defeats.

He also has a stake in the company, so it would be strategically impossible for him to be removed from the promotion.

Esther Lin / MVPPaul has since offered Perry a surprise olive branch[/caption]

McGregor even suggested that Perry had not earned more when stepping away to fight outside the promotion, so his return will be likely.

It prompted a spiky response from the American, who mocked the Irishman for his toe injury, which ruled him out of his comeback fight with Michael Chandler.

It is likely that ‘Platinum’ will keep fighting despite Paul’s offer, and he confirmed as such when assessing his future.

Perry added: “He doesn’t have a promotion because me and him are both owners of BKFC. He can’t fire me.

“We can fight bare-knuckle. Look at me. I lost to Jake Paul. Why don’t you go fight Jake Paul and box him with the gloves on. I think it would be worse than Conor McGregor vs Floyd Mayweather.

“But I’ll probably get back in the gym because that’s all I know. And I’ll train and I’ll try to get better.

“And you know, I use it as a mental health thing. I train in the gym to be a better person.”

Paul has a bright future ahead of him after his latest win, and he will return again in November in his huge rescheduled clash with Mike Tyson.

The YouTube star also has a number of offers on the table for some big fights in 2025, providing he edges past the heavyweight veteran.

Reminding people about his next fight and of his dislike for McGregor, he posted on Twitter: “1) Mike Perry is a f***ing beast and has a lot more balls than that little leprechaun.

2) Where all those mma experts at that said Mike Perry was going to end me?

3) Next up is me vs Mike Tyson and Serrano vs Taylor on Netflix, November 15th. It will be the biggest combat sport event of the 21st century.

Michael Bisping, the former UFC middleweight champion, was not impressed by the tweet. “The ‘little leprechaun’ (very original by the way) is one of the greatest fighters the UFC has ever seen,” he hit back. “But he also won the featherweight title. Do your thing. But please for f*** sake stop trying to sound tough. Fight a boxer dips*** or at least someone your size bully boy.”

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Premier League legend Gareth Barry comes out of retirement aged 43 four years after calling time on career

Jake Lambourne — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:06:51 +0000

Gareth Barry has made a U-turn on his retirement decision to join non-league outfit Hurstpierpoint at the age of 43.

The Premier League legend, who won the trophy with Manchester City in 2012, hung up his boots four years ago after his three-year stint at West Brom.

Barry has returned to the beautiful game to join non-league side Hurstpierpoint

@hurstpierpoint1

But Barry, who made a record 653 appearances in the Premier League, has now come out of retirement to join the 11th-tier outfit.

Hurstpierpoint shared the news on X, where the ex-England international proudly posed with the club shirt.

A statement read: “We are beyond delighted to announce that former-England international and all-time Premier League record appearance holder, Gareth Barry, has signed for Hurstpierpoint Football Club.

“Gareth has a long-standing association with the village through his good friend, and our Coach, Michael Standing; so it seemed an obvious move to get him involved with the football club.

“His quality in training has been unreal, so we’re all very excited to see him pull on the shirt and grace the Fairfield turf later on this season.

“Welcome to Hurstpierpoint, Gareth.”

Hurstpierpoint currently ply their trade in the Championship division of the Mid Sussex League.

It will be the first time that Barry, who represented the Three Lions on 53 occasions between 2000-2012, has played below the Championship.

Barry was part of the Man City squad that won the Premier League in 2012

Rex

No player in Premier League history has made more appearances than Barry’s 653 outings

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For the first 20 years of his playing career, Barry had competed in the Premier League.

He made his senior debut at Aston Villa in 1998, where he scored 52 goals in 441 matches before linking up with the Citizens in 2009.

And in his second season at the Etihad, he helped the club end their 35-year trophy drought by winning the FA Cup.

The following campaign, he featured in 34 top-flight appearances as Roberto Mancini’s men pipped rivals Manchester United to the league title.

Everton was the next destination for Barry, who turned his loan spell into a permanent stay in 2014 – racking up 155 appearances across his five years.

And he then linked up with West Brom in 2017, where he was unable to help them beat relegation in his opening term, before staying with them in the Championship for the next years.

But after deciding to call time on his lengthy career in 2020, Barry has returned to the beautiful game, where he will be hoping to help Hurstpierpoint to improve on their sixth-placed position from last season.

‘Real life career mode’ – When Joao Felix first met Cristiano Ronaldo he thought he looked like a PlayStation character

Ailsa — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:02:03 +0000

Joao Felix once joked Cristiano Ronaldo resembled ‘a video character’ when he first met him.

Ronaldo’s iconic status has left many people star-struck over the years, even his international teammate.

Felix was in awe of Ronaldo

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The attacker admitted he couldn’t believe his eyes upon meeting national team colleague and captain, with the youngster revealing that the Portugal star didn’t look real.

Felix made his debut for Portugal during the UEFA Nations League in 2019 as a substitute during their 3-1 win against Switzerland.

Ronaldo and Felix helped lead Portugal to tournament victory, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner scooping the top scorer prize.

“It was weird!” the then 19-year-old told Benfica’s official website.

“I had never seen [Ronaldo] up close in real life and I said to my colleagues and best friends later when I got home that it was like being in career mode on PlayStation – he looked like a video game character.

“It was strange but it was a dream come true to be with him in the same training camp.

“I don’t even remember what he said because at first, he was only thinking about what was at his feet. Anyway, it was very good.”

Both featured for Portugal during the 2024 Euros, but Felix heartrendingly missed a penalty in the shoot-out to France and Portugal lost 5–3, resulting in their elimination.

He apologised to the Portugal fans in the stands after finding the bottom corner

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Felix unsurprisingly also named Ronaldo as one of the greatest players in the world, along with some other superstar names.

“Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar and Mbappe,” he said when asked who the greatest players are in the world in that interview.

“I liked Kaka very much [when I was younger] and after watching a lot of videos of him, ones in which Rui Costa also appeared, he also became one of the players that I liked to watch. These two have always been examples to me.

“Doing what Rui Costa did, winning all that he won, is not easy, but I will go for it and try to be as good as him. Or better, if possible!”

Felix is now 24 and back at Atletico Madrid after his loan at Barcelona ended.

Aston Villa could be a surprising next destination as talkSPORT understands that they are interested in him as a possible replacement for Moussa Diaby.

WWE Champ Cody Rhodes gives three-word reply after fan appeal to ‘step up’ and run for US President

Matty Paddock — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:59:08 +0000

Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes has excited fans by hinting at a future in politics following another stunning development in the US Presidential race.

Sitting President Joe Biden declared on Sunday that he’ll no longer campaign for a second term in office, in the midst of a bitter battle with Donald Trump.

Donald Trump is no stranger to the world of WWE having been interviewed by Logan Paul earlier this year

X/@LoganPaul

Biden, who had been off the campaign trail after contracting COVID, steps down with sitting Vice President Kamala Harris a strong front runner to replace him in the top job and as nominee for the Democratic Party.

He said: “While it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as president for the remainder of my term.”

Never short of wild opinion or two, wrestling fans have long called for Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson to take a swing at politics – now, though, have stated they feel WWE’s top male star in Rhodes would make a suitable President – one even urging him to enter the running here and now.

One fan took aim at the grappler, saying it was time for him to ‘step up big dawg’ in a post on X.

Typically bashful in his reply, The American Nightmare was less than forthright in his reply, though did enough in his short riposte toe suggest it may be something he has on his agenda in future.

Addressing the appeal, Rhodes simply said: “Maybe one day.”

The message to Rhodes may well have been one half in jest, but it’s true enough that he’s popular enough for fans to hold him in that high a regard after a phenomenal rise in WWE following his return there a couple of years ago.

Having left and toured the world on the independent scene and helped set up rival organisation All Elite Wrestling, the son of icon Dusty Rhodes re-signed with WWE and, despite a spell out with injury not long after, has performed at an incredible level.

WWEVince McMahon inducted Trump into WWE’s Hall of Fame at a glitzy ceremony[/caption]

WWECody Rhodes’ popularity has reached staggering heights in WWE[/caption]

Finally dethroning Roman Reigns as Undisputed Champion at WrestleMania earlier this year in one of the company’s best long-term storylines, his popularity has only grown during what has become another boom period for WWE and professional wrestling as a whole.

The latest dramatic turn of events Stateside came just days after unbelievable scenes saw an assassination attempt on Trump, who is in his own right a WWE Hall of Famer.

Businessman and former President Trump, who sustained a wounded ear in the astonishing near-miss, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013.

Maybe one day
— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) July 21, 2024

That came after a wild involvement in a leading WWE storyline against fellow business mogul Vince McMahon, who had his head shaved at WrestleMania after Umaga, under his charge, lost to Bobby Lashley, supported by Trump.

Trump’s ties to the controversial McMahon date back to the 1980s when the tycoon’s Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino played host to the fourth and fifth instalments of the annual WWE megashow.

Last week, 80s WWE legend Hulk Hogan threw his support behind Trump with a classic ‘Hulkamania’ style promo at the Republic National Convention.

McMahon’s wife, Linda, also served in the Trump Administration as Administrator of the Small Business Administration between 2017 and 2019 and continues to endorse him on the campaign trail.

‘He will give up’ – Sparring partner who KO’d Daniel Dubois and gave Anthony Joshua a ‘hard time’ only sees one winner in all-British clash

George Glinski — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:56:11 +0000

Martin Bakole has no doubt as to who he thinks will get their hand raised between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois.

The heavyweight titans are set to square off on September 21 at Wembley Stadium for the IBF heavyweight title.

Joshua and Dubois will headline Wembley this summer

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Dubois was recently upgraded from ‘interim’ to full world champion after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt to fulfil his rematch clause with Tyson Fury.

AJ opens up as a 1/5 favourite to beat Dubois with talkSPORT Bet.

And Bakole – who has sparred both men – is in agreement with the oddsmakers.

“Joshua is too good for Dubois and more experienced. He has a technique and a big heart,” he told talkSPORT.com.

“Daniel doesn’t have a big heart so as soon as he starts landing the big beautiful punches, he will give up.

“He doesn’t have a big heart. I think Joshua for the experience but anything can happen.

“Daniel Dubois can land beautiful punches he surprised everyone against Hrgovic but I don’t Joshua will give up and he will try his best.

“So for experience, for boxing style, for his brain, I think he is a little bit higher than Dubois.”

Bakole has shared the ring with both men

Mark Robinson/Matchroom

He thinks Dubois will quit against Joshua

Frank Warren

The Congolese heavyweight claims to have stopped Dubois twice in sparring and given Joshua a ‘hard time’ when they shared the ring together.

“Ask anyone about me. Go ask Daniel Dubois about me, ask Joshua about me, ask Usyk about me, ask Tyson Fury about me, they will keep quiet. Nobody will say they gave me a hard time,” he added.

“I gave them all a hard time. I stopped Daniel Dubois twice, stopped Joe Joyce and Joshua oh, that was a big one, he was hurt that day.”

Bakole is currently ranked by all four major sanctioning bodies including a No.1 rating with the WBA.

Since losing for the first and only time in his professional career against Michael Hunter in October 2018, the 31-year-old has strung together a nine-fight winning streak and has now been handed the biggest opportunity of his career.

On August 3 in Los Angeles, Bakole will face Jared Anderson in Riyadh Season’s first overseas event, headlined by Israil Madrimov vs Terence Crawford.

Anderson is widely considered to be one of boxing’s most exciting heavyweight prospects while Fury has tipped him to become the next big thing.

If Bakole can derail the hype train then it will be a massive statement that would open doors to some colossal fights.

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Former WWE Champion ‘removed from roster’ and could exit for good amid contract update

Matty Paddock — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:54:57 +0000

A top WWE star and a major rival to John Cena could be on his way out of the company with reports his contract is due to expire.

Bustling behemoth Bobby Lashley hasn’t wrestled in a televised match in the better part of three months, despite being a two-time WWE Champion.

Bobby Lashley featured at WrestleMania but has been used sparingly in recent months

WWE

Lashley’s last outing in front of the cameras came back in April, an unsuccessful attempt to challenge for the number one contendership of what was then the Undisputed Universal title.

In five wrestling matches since then, he’s battled only at non-televised events, and the last of those came back in May when he defeated Santos Escobar during a WWE European tour.

It marks a drastic departure from screens for the 48-year-old, who once fought John Cena for the WWE Championship at The Great American Bash in 2007.

A new report from Fighftul in the US states Lashley, a former US Marine, could now exit WWE altogether having wrestled there for more than nine years across two spells.

The outlet also verified a further report from PWN that claimed the company had even gone as far as to remove the powerhouse from their internal rosters – though at the time of writing he still features as a talent on WWE‘s website.

They noted: “Former world champion Bobby Lashley’s WWE contract is up within the next month or so, possibly over the course of weeks.

“PWN learned that Lashley was removed from the internal roster page, though he is still featured on the company’s website, and Fightful was also able to confirm that news.

“Lashley has been out of action for a number of months, and sources have told us that he plans on continuing wrestling if for some reason an extension is not reached with WWE.”

wweLashley is one of the most physically impressive specimens in WWE[/caption]

Lashley’s situation is one of many like it in recent months as WWE has worked to manage its roster.

Fightful confirmed recently that veteran Natalya put pen to paper on a new ‘multi-year’ deal with the company to continue a main roster tenure that stretches back the better part of two decades.

The multi-time former world champion is niece to Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart, and is generally regarded as one of the best professionals in the business.

Chad Gable is another name to have renewed terms with WWE under the stewardship of Paul Triple H’ Levesque, the company’s Head of Creative.

Speaking about the development, Gable admitted the veteran’s leadership played a big part in his decision to re-sign, saying: “What I’ll say regarding Hunter; when he took over, he saw my trajectory change almost immediately.

“I started getting a lot of singles matches with some of our top guys and, to me, a lightbulb went off and it was like: ‘things might be different now,’ and they have been ever since.

“He’s delivered on pretty much everything he’s ever told me.”

Ricochet, a former rival of Logan Paul in WWE, left the company following the end of his term, bowing out in sensational style during a rivalry with Bron Breakker.

WWEChad Gable has seen his career revitalised under Paul Levesque[/caption]

One major player yet to confirm their future one way or another following the end of their contract is Becky Lynch.

The Man hasn’t featured on screen for WWE since May but remains one of the biggest stars in wrestling.

Tyson Fury’s manager lifts lid on stumbling block that could derail Anthony Joshua fight

George Glinski — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:28:29 +0000

Tyson Fury’s manager Spencer Brown insists his client must beat Oleksandr Usyk if he hopes to face Anthony Joshua next.

Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh is planning to stage the long-awaited all-British clash between Joshua and Fury in March 2025.

Fury vs Joshua is being targeted for Spring 2025

GETTY

Joshua is set to face Daniel Dubois on September 21 at Wembley Stadium for ‘Triple D’s’ IBF heavyweight title.

If he wins that fight and Fury topples Usyk when they run it back on December 21 then the pair will duke it out for the undisputed crown next year, barring any funny business from the major sanctioning bodies.

Brown previously suggested that Alalshikh had informed him that AJ vs Fury would happen regardless of the result of ‘The Gypsy King’s’ second fight with Usyk on December 21.

However, he now insists that the Usyk rematch carries more bearing on Fury’s next move.

“I think that we need to get this one out the way. There’s no collision course if he doesn’t win the next fight. So it’s imperative he beats Usyk,” Brown told Sky Sports.

Fury lost a tight split decision to Usyk in May but was dropped and nearly stopped in the ninth round.

The Mancunian’s team came under a lot of criticism following the fight.

Traditionally, only one person speaks in a fighter’s corner between rounds, but Fury’s father John, SugarHill Steward, and Andy Lee were all giving him advice during the bout – some of which was contradictory.

If Fury loses to Usyk then there is no clear ‘collision course’ for his next fight, says Brown

Getty

Yet Brown insists the only changes Fury will be making ahead of his second meeting with Usyk will be in training.

“There’ll be changes, not in management or his team, there’ll be some other stuff that he’ll be looking at training-wise,” Brown added.

“With the closeness of the fight last time, it could have gone either way.

“Some people will say Usyk was three rounds in front, some people won’t, it’s your opinion on boxing – that’s why we love it.

“But Tyson Fury will be back. He’ll be firing and we’ll see a new, better, improved Tyson Fury.

“At his age, I don’t know how much you can improve but there was very, very little in the fight between them, so let’s back our British guy and I’m sure he will win and then we’re going to talk about the next stage.”

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I’m the forgotten Olympics legend who turned down the NBA but scored more points than Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant

Brian T. Smith — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:23:32 +0000

One of the best players from the legendary 1984 NBA Draft never played in the NBA.

But Oscar Schmidt changed basketball forever and once averaged 42 points in the Olympics.

Oscar Schmidt was in the same draft as Michael Jordan and made the Hall of Fame

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Schmidt, a 6ft 8in forward, is from Brazil and didn’t play at a United States college.

But he was so talented and promising, the New Jersey Nets used a draft pick on him in a 1984 draft that featured Hakeem Olajuwon, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley and John Stockton in the first round.

Five rounds later, another future Hall of Famer was drafted.

The Nets took Oscar Daniel Bezerra Schmidt with the No. 131 overall pick in the sixth round.

While Jordan became the most dominant player in NBA history and Olajuwon evolved into one of the greatest centers of all-time, Schmidt never set foot on an NBA court — he opted to proudly represent his country of Brazil rather then become a pro in the US.

Ahead of his time on the international basketball stage, Schmidt helped grow the game across the globe and played in the 1980, 1984, 1988, 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics for Brazil.

In 1988, he averaged an astonishing 42.3 points while shooting 56.9 percent from the field and 55.6 percent on 3-pointers.

Schmidt’s diverse all-around game was compared to Larry Bird.

youtube@nbaSchmidt was compared to Boston legend Larry Bird for his all-around game[/caption]

Schmidt averaged 42.3 points in the 1988 Olympics

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He led Brazil to the gold medal at the 1987 Pan-American Games and scored 46 points against the United States.

Schmidt also set an Olympic single-game record with 55 points against Spain and has seven of the 10 highest scoring games in Olympic history.

LeBron James (40,474 career points) passed Schmidt in career scoring last season, but the Brazilian star has more points than Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant and Jordan.

Schmidt was elected to the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2013.

He won three South American championship gold medals and was known as the Holy Hand to his Brazilian admirers.

Despite never playing in the NBA, Schmidt became the all-time leading scorer in Olympic history with more than 1,000 points.

The 2024 Olympics will be held July 26 to August 11 in Paris.

James and Team USA barely held off South Sudan 101-100 in an exhibition game on Saturday in London.

USA coach Steve Kerr turned to James to save the team in the final tense seconds.

Jake Paul could be sanctioned to fight for WBA world title as clash with son of boxing legend eyed

Ben Davies — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:17:35 +0000

WBA president Gilberto Mendoza has opened the door to Jake Paul fighting for a world title.

Paul fought in his eleventh professional contest against ex-UFC star Mike Perry, who he dispatched with a brutal KO in Florida.

Paul beat Perry to continue his recent hot streak

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The ‘Problem Child’ has always insisted his ambition is to become world champion in the sport before the end of his career, but would need to alter his course.

But WBA president Mendoza is open to handing Paul a world title shot, against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, son of former three-weight world champion and boxing icon Julio Cesar Chavez.

He tweeted: “I am not against a Jake Paul vs Julio Cesar Chavez Jr for a championship.”

The opinion attracted criticism from boxing fans in the comments, but Paul will be delighted with the stance set out.

Chavez Jr has a wealth of experience as a professional having fought 60 times with 53 wins, six defeats and one draw.

The Mexican fought on the undercard of Paul’s clash with Perry, facing ex-UFC star Uriah Hall after a three-year hiatus from the ring.

It was by no means a statement performance, but he got the job done cruising to a unanimous points win.

Chavez Jr has reigned as the WBC middleweight world champion previously, beating Sebastian Zbik in 2011.

Chavez Jr returned to the ring with a win, then called out Paul

He made three defences of the crown before being stopped by Sergio Martinez the following year to lose his belt.

Negotiations between the pair for a fight would likely be routine, given Chavez Jr has worked with Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions on multiple occasions.

The former world champion was booed for his performance against Hall but proceeded to call out Paul nonetheless.

Talks were previously held between the pair, but Chavez Jr explained the conditions it would need for him to consider the event.

“Jake Paul and his people contacted me regarding a fight with Paul,” said Chavez Jr. told Fight News in 2022.

“I said ‘yes,’ but then again [advisor] Lupe Valencia, who is with Paul now and used to be with me a few years back, said they offered me $1-to-$3 million dollars plus pay per view.

“When it’s a fight that can sell millions and can break records because he is popular and I have a name, I’m a former world champion, so I made it clear that it has to be a 50/50 split for me to take the fight.

“People want me to beat him, [Jake Paul] is strong and he knows how to organize the fights well at his weight, it would be a matter of reaching an agreement.

“He generate a lot of expectations and money for the morbid, a match with me would be good.

“These [brothers] haven’t learned how to fight well and I can take advantage of that. Jake Paul can punch, but he’s not a boxer.”

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Irish Olympian Rhys McClenaghan tests out ‘anti-sex beds’ at Paris Olympics and shows off the results

Jake Lambourne — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:08:29 +0000

Randy Olympians have been given the all-clear to engage in casual hook-ups after the ‘anti-sex bed’ myth was debunked by Irish star Rhys McClenaghan.

Just like at the Tokyo 2020 Games, athletes in France will be sleeping on cardboard beds, which was rumoured to only hold the weight of one person.

Irish gymnast McClenaghan has dismissed the ‘anti-sex bed’ myth

X: @McClenaghanRhys

It was alleged that should two people attempt to climb between the sheets together, then the cardboard structure would collapse.

But just like in Japan three years ago, gymnast McClenaghan has rubbished suggestion that the frame isn’t strong enough after conducting his own research.

In a video shared on social media, the 25-year-old told his followers: “I’m at the Paris Olympic games and they once again have these cardboard ‘anti-sex beds’.

“When I tested them the last time, they withstood my testing.

“Maybe I wasn’t rigorous enough, though.“

McClenaghan – a two-time wold pummel horse champion – then proceeded to jump on the bed, before performing handstands and front flips to showcase their sturdiness.

Concluding his rigorous investigation, he then stated: “No, they pass the test. It’s fake, it’s fake news!”

Athletes are known to engage in sexual relations with fellow Olympians at the Olympic village, with the 2016 Games in Brazil nicknamed ‘Raunchy Rio’.

McClenaghan tested out the cardboard structure where he performed a number of exercises

X: @McClenaghanRhys

He subsequently debunked the theory, branding it as ‘fake news’

X: @McClenaghanRhys

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rhys McClenaghan (@rhysmcc1)

And in the ‘City of Love’ this summer, things promise to be no different.

It is believed that over 200,000 condoms will be available in the Olympic Village, with athletes to be given 20 each by Durex.

Though that is still less than half of the 450,000 condoms that were handed out in Rio, which saw Tinder matches soar up by 129 per cent in the Village.

The opening ceremony for the Paris Olympics takes place on Friday, though the action starts two days earlier on Wednesday with football, rugby sevens, handball and archery kicking things off.

And you can keep up to date with all the action in France by listening live on talkSPORT, with gold medallists Steve Redgrave, Kelly Holmes and Tessa Sanderson part of our epic line-up.

‘Stupid girls keep breaking my heart’ – MMA prospect stuns fans with X-rated meltdown after winning fight

Jordan Ellis — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:03:51 +0000

Iyean Varela had a bizarre meltdown after his latest MMA fight.

The American moved to 2-0 as a professional when he locked up a first-round guillotine submission on Emerson Garcia at Fury FC 94 on Saturday night.

Varela did not seem happy after his big win

@Grabaka_Hitman - x

What should’ve been a joyous moment turned into a viral nightmare.

Varela gave what is probably the angriest post-fight interview in MMA history.

“That s*** happens to me all the time, I’m used to this s***,” he began.

However, he soon started shouting at the top of his voice while discussing his coach Ray Borg, who famously challenged Demetrious Johnson for the UFC flyweight title in 2017.

Varela screamed: “I f***ing train with Ray Borg. He’s a f***ing flyweight motherf***er.”

After that, the 125lb prospect abruptly changed the conversation from the fight and his coach to the personal issues he is currently dealing with.

“I’m f***ing heartbroken. Time-out,” Varela said.

“The only reason I got into this sport was because these f***ing stupid girls wanna keep f***ing breaking my f***ing heart.

Varela revealed his personal troubles to the world

@Grabaka_Hitman - x

He screamed during his X-rated outburst

@Grabaka_Hitman - x

“And my grandma f***ing died. So, yeah, I’m a little heated. F*** off.”

The person interviewing him didn’t know what to do, so he let out a little chuckle and wished Varela well with his career before the commentators weighed in.

sir this is a Wendy's #FuryFC94 pic.twitter.com/H4YWskAzhB
— caposa (@Grabaka_Hitman) July 21, 2024

One member of the broadcast team referenced Jason Bateman’s famous line from the film Dodgeball, he said: “That’s a bold strategy to win fans, let’s see if it pays off.”

Everyone laughed and the topic of conversation quickly changed.

Varela’s wacky outburst soon made its way to social media and fans voiced their opinions.

One person tweeted: “Bro went right off a cliff with that interview.”

Another said: “He seems quite well adjusted. I can’t see why the ladies don’t want him. No idea at all.”

A third person commented: “What makes this even better is his Instagram bio seems to indicate he’s an elementary school teacher. I bet his class is an absolute blast.”

Someone else joked: “Just the right kind of crazy for MMA. This kid is going places.”

Varela has since issued an apology for his behaviour after beating Garcia.

“I’m a nice guy I swear,” he wrote on Instagram. “Just lost my grandma and a lot of people have hurt me on the way guys. I was emotional. Sorry!”

Steve Kerr reveals what it’s like to coach ‘brilliant’ LeBron James in the final decisive seconds for Team USA with a historic collapse on the line

Brian T. Smith — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:54:18 +0000

Steve Kerr had a list of huge names but only one choice.

Put LeBron James back in the game and let The King take over.

GettyLeBron James was the final answer for Team USA against South Sudan[/caption]

With Team USA on the verge of international embarrassment inside a sold-out 02, a coach with nine NBA championship rings didn’t turn to Stephen Curry, Anthony Edwards or Joel Embiid to save the United States against little-known South Sudan.

Instead, Kerr trusted a 39-year-old who’s supposed to be in decline and hanging around just to play with his 19-year-old son Bronny on the Los Angeles Lakers.

Reality says that James was the second-best player last season on a Lakers team that again couldn’t get out of the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.

But there was another reality on Saturday night in London and it was stunning to watch in person.

James wasn’t just the greatest player of his generation and a living inspiration to all the kids, teenagers and adults proudly wearing No. 23 jerseys in a variety of colors for everyone to see.

James was the best and most driven player for Team USA, a week away from the start of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

“He’s just got such an incredible competitive spirit and confidence in the clutch,” Kerr exclusively told talkSPORT. “As soon as he got out there, he went to work.”

GettyJames was still the best option for Team USA with Steph Curry on the court[/caption]

GettyWhen the United States needed a decisive basket, James took over once again[/caption]

This could become Curry’s Olympics or an international showcase for Edwards, who spent the 2023-24 increasingly being compared to Michael Jordan, a former Chicago Bulls teammate of Kerr’s.

Right now, James is still the best final-minute option for Team USA, despite being 17 years older than Ant.

“I like getting tested, baby,” James said. “I like being tested — those are the best ones.”

While his teammates watched South Sudan try to hold on to a surreal 58-44 halftime advantage, James spent the early portion of the third quarter anxiously standing, pacing and staring.

A man with 20 All-Star appearances, four NBA Finals MVPs and more than $1 billion in net worth appeared to only have one wish on Saturday night in London.

For Kerr to get out of the way and for The King to be allowed back on the court as soon as possible, so James could save Team USA and prevent another embarrassing upset like Puerto Rico in 2004.

“I don’t think he was real thrilled about me not starting him in the third quarter,” Kerr said.

“I looked down a couple of times and I can see LeBron jumping up a bit to be out on the floor.”

GettySteve Kerr could tell that James wasn’t happy in the third quarter[/caption]

GettyThe King of the NBA was the main attraction during an extended stay in London[/caption]

James leads everyone else in NBA history by more than 2,000 points.

Even if the world still insists that MJ will always be the GOAT, no one can touch James’ 21-year dominance during an era when global names are winning MVPs and the court is constantly stretched with 3-pointers.

At 39, James should be the third- or fourth-best option for Kerr.

In some worlds, The King would be coming off the bench and Ant-Man would already be commanding the USA’s spotlight in Paris.

Not in London inside an absolutely buzzing 02, when South Sudan was on the verge of shocking the world and igniting social media.

James scored a game-high 25 points, connected on 10-of-14 shots, led the USA with seven assists, and tied Curry for the most minutes played (23).

Then with the clock painfully ticking down and Kerr’s squad trailing 100-99, James did what he’s done since 2003.

He put his head down, attacked, took over and told every basketball fan in the world that no one can stop him.

“He was brilliant,” Kerr said.

Jayson Tatum, Anthony Davis and Devin Booker are supposed to be the new names.

James is supposed to be passing the torch.

At 39, a man who’s dominated the NBA for more than two decades was the only one who could save the USA’s pride — and Kerr had no choice but to put The King back in the game.

LeBron James game winner pic.twitter.com/ylKvNuHhCB
— NBA Poland (@NBAPolska23) July 20, 2024

Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris involved in frosty exchange following dramatic Hungarian Grand Prix

Robert Calcutt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:23:42 +0000

Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris had an awkward exchange in the cooldown room following the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Oscar Piastri claimed victory at the Hungaroring on Sunday to win his first Formula 1 Grand Prix, with Norris finishing second and Hamilton third.

Hamilton praised Norris for his fast car in the Hungary cooldown room

@F1 X

It saw McLaren seal a one-two podium finish following one of the most dramatic races of the 2024 calendar so far.

When sitting in the cooldown room afterwards, Mercedes star was on hand to praise McLaren for their impressive drives on the day.

“Hoo, you guys are fast!” he said, but it appeared to turn into a frosty conversation between him and his fellow Brit Norris.

“You had a fast car seven years ago,” replied Norris, who seemingly alluded to the 39-year-old’s World Championship win in 2017.

Hamilton appeared confused and responded: “Seven years ago? That’s a long time, were you here seven years ago?”

“You know, you had a quick car. You made the most of it and now it’s us!” said Norris defiantly.

Hamilton then added: “I wasn’t complaining, I was just complimenting you on your car.”

Norris’ comments come four years since he claimed that Hamilton should win every race after he won his 92nd race at the Portugal Grand Prix, beating the legendary Michael Schumacher’s record.

Norris then said his fellow driver was also fast in 2017

@F1 X

But Hamilton appeared perplexed by his comment

@F1 X

Norris then insisted it’s McLaren’s turn to have the faster car

@F1 X

Hamilton then claimed he wasn’t looking to complain amid a tense atmosphere

@F1 X

“I’m just happy for him, nothing more,” he said via PlanetF1.com. It doesn’t mean anything to me, really. He’s in a car which should win every race, basically.

“He has to beat one or two other drivers, that’s it. Fair play to him, he’s still doing the job he has to do.”

There's not a lot of 'cooling down' going on here, guys…

A tense first episode of the Oscar Piastri podcast #F1 #HungarianGP pic.twitter.com/WvnZVBXo15
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 21, 2024

Piastri entered the room around halfway through the exchange but opted not to get involved as he reflected on his maiden win.

The Australian led his teammate Norris for most of the race after he overtook him at the first corner.

However, McLaren opted to send the latter into the pits before Piastri in what was a controversial team decision.

Norris was then asked on various occasions to hand first position back to his teammate and eventually did so with two laps remaining.

Hamilton’s third place finish was also spawned from controversy after he and Max Verstappen made contact.

Verstappen went to overtake the Mercedes man late by taking the inside of turn one but they collided to send his back wheels flying.

The world champion claimed that the incident was Hamilton’s fault as he moved into his ‘braking zone’, but this was laughed off by his rival.

However, stewards went on to confirm that no further action would be taken as neither driver was said to be ‘predominantly to blame’.

Paris Olympics 2024: Start date, full schedule, opening ceremony and how to follow summer games with live coverage on talkSPORT

Jack Johnson — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:02:00 +0000

There are only days to go until the best athletes in the world will begin representing their country at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The Olympic Games are being held in the French capital for the first time in 100 years and stars will be arriving in Europe soon aiming for gold.

The 2024 Olympics will take place in Paris – the French capital’s third time hosting

Getty

The opening ceremony will be staged along the Seine River

GETTY

At the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, Team GB came away with 64 medals in total and finished fourth in the overall leaderboards.

Tom Daley and Adam Peaty were among the gold medal winners for Britain and will be back again.

For those who do win gold, they will now receive prize money after World Athletics announced a major change to the event.

A prize pot of $2.4m (£1.9m) has been made available, with gold medallists receiving $50,000 (£39,400).

The games are fast approaching so here’s everything you need to know about the Paris Olympics…

When is the Paris Olympics starting and when will the opening ceremony be staged?

The opening ceremony takes place on Friday, July 26.

But the action will actually start on Wednesday, 24 July, with football, rugby sevens, handball and archery kicking things off.

The opening ceremony will then be held 48 hours later, and will get going on Friday evening at 7.30pm local time. With France an hour ahead of the United Kingdom, that is 6.30pm UK time.

For the first time in history, the opening ceremony of an Olympic Games will not take place in a stadium.

It will be staged along the Seine, with thousands of athletes parading in boats along the river that flows through Paris, in front of hundreds of thousands of spectators.

There will be boats for each national delegation, which will be equipped with cameras to allow viewers watching on TV and online to get a close-up view of all the action.

The athletes will pass major landmarks such as the Louvre, Notre-Dame and Place de la Concorde on a 6km route, before ending in front of the Trocadéro, where the final elements of the ceremony and the celebratory shows will take place.

The games will be known as Paris 2024 and the Olympics and Paralympics will share the slogan ‘Games Wide Open’.

Team GB will be hoping for another batch of gold medals in 2024

getty

How can I listen to live commentary of the Paris Olympics?

talkSPORT have secured the rights to cover the Olympic Games.

This is the first time the rights to broadcast the event have been available on commercial radio.

A number of talkSPORT’s multi-award-winning presenters and pundits will provide fans with unlimited coverage and content from Paris.

talkSPORT.com will also keep you up to date with all the latest news with a live blog.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

Seven-time Olympic medal-winning U.S. gymnast Simone Biles is set to return in Paris

AFP

Some of basketball’s biggest names will be at the Olympics too

Getty

French icon Thierry Henry is managing the host’s football team

Getty

How can I watch the Paris Olympics on TV?

The entirety of the 2024 Paris Olympics will be broadcast live on the BBC and Eurosport.

Events will be shown across all of the BBC’s channels in the UK, with BBC One and BBC Two broadcasting over 250 hours of live coverage across the entire 16-day event

This can be viewed for free on TV as well as live streamed through the BBC Website or BBC iPlayer via tablet or mobile devices.

Discovery+ will have 3,800 hours of live coverage of the Olympics through Eurosport, with fans able to subscribe here.

Eurosport 1 and Eurosport 2 will broadcast action across every day of competition, with live coverage from 7am -10.30pm daily.

Both Eurosport 1 and 2 will be available on Discovery+, along with seven event-curated Eurosport ‘pop-up’ channels.

USA’s Noah Lyles will be going for three golds at Paris 2024

Getty

Which venues are being used at the Paris Olympics?

There are 34 competition venues in total. Nineteen are in Paris itself and another five in the surrounding Ile de France region, with the remainder being football stadia around the country, the National Shooting Centre in Chateauroux, sailing in Marseille and surfing in the distant French territory of Tahiti.

The Stade de France, the country’s largest stadium, will transform into the Olympic Stadium after three decades of staging France’s biggest sports events.

The beach volleyball will take place against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, with a temporary stadium built in the Champ de Mars park.

Swimming events will take place in the Seine in central Paris. Over a billion pounds has been spent to clean it up, with both marathon swimming and the triathlon scheduled to use it for competition.

On July 17, Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo took a dip in the river to try to prove that it was safe for athletes.

The athletes, meanwhile, will be housed in the newly-built Olympic Village, which will accommodate 14,250, and be spread across three towns.

After the Games, the Village will become a neighbourhood with more than 2,000 new homes.

The Eiffel Tower will provide a great backdrop

GETTY

The Stade de France will host the opening and closing ceremony

The Lille part of the Olympic village has 495 rooms with a capacity of 550 beds and will accommodate the basketball and handball teams

GETTY

How many sports and events are there at the Paris Olympics?

The Paris Olympic Games will feature 34 sports and 47 disciplines in total.

There will be four new additions – breaking, skateboarding, surfing and sports climbing.

In total there will be 329 events – and therefore 329 gold medals to battle it out for – across 19 days of competition.

Team GB are taking 327 athletes to Paris across 24 different sports.

The flagship 100m finals will take place across the weekend of August 3-4.

The women’s 100m final will be held at 8.20pm UK time on Saturday, August 3 and the men’s 100m final will take place at 8.50pm UK time on Sunday, August 4.

Full sports schedule:

Archery: July 25 to August 4
Artistic gymnastics: July 27 to August 5
Artistic swimming: August 5 to 10
Athletics: from August 1 to 11
Badminton: July 27 to August 5
Basketball 3×3: July 30 to August 5
Basketball: July 27 to August 11
Beach volleyball: July 27 to August 10
BMX freestyle: July 30-31
BMX race: August 1st to 2nd
Boxing: July 27 to August 10
Breaking: August 9 to 10
Canoe slalom: July 27 to August 5
Diving: July 27 to August 10
Equestrian Sports: July 27 to August 6
Fencing: July 27 to August 4
Field hockey: July 27 to August 9
Golf: August 1 to 10
Handball: July 25 to August 11
Judo: July 27 to August 3
Marathon swimming: August 8-9
Modern Pentathlon: August 8 to 11
Mountain biking: July 28 to 29
Rhythmic gymnastics: August 8 to 10
Road cycling: July 27 to August 4
Rowing: July 27 to August 3
Rugby: July 24-30
Sailing: July 28 to August 8
Shooting: July 27 to August 5
Skateboarding: July 27 to August 7
Soccer: July 24 to August 10
Sport climbing: August 5 to 10
Sprint canoeing: August 6 to 10
Surfing: July 27 to 30
Swimming: July 27 to August 4
Table tennis: July 27 to August 10
Taekwondo: August 7-10
Tennis: July 27 to August 4
Track cycling: August 5-11
Trampoline: August 2
Triathlon: July 30 to August 5
Volleyball: July 27 to August 11
Waterpolo: July 27 to August 11
Weightlifting: August 7 to 11
Wrestling: August 5-11

Who are Team GB’s best gold medal hopes at the Olympics?

Adam Gemili, who will be part of talkSPORT’s punditry team in Paris, said: “In terms of track and field, I feel like we’ve got very good opportunities to get some, not just medals, but gold medals.

“Katarina Johnson-Thompson in the heptathlon, and Keely Hodgkinson in the 800 metres can definitely win it. She can medal at minimum, but I think she could definitely win it.

“Josh Kerr versus Jake Wightman (in the 1500m), again, two world champions that we’ve got who will go head-to-head.

“More recently this year, Molly Cowdrey in the pole vault. I think she could really put a good series together. I don’t see why she couldn’t come back with a gold medal as well.”

Team GB stars to watch

Former Team GB Olympians Sir Steve Redgrave and Adam Gemili have picked out their gold medal hopefuls for the Paris Games.

Sir Steve Redgrave’s Olympic medal hopefuls

Emily Craig and Imogen Grant – Rowing
Emma Wilson – Windsurfing
Adam Peaty – Swimming

Adam Gemili’s Olympic medal hopefuls

Katarina Johnson-Thompson – Heptaphlon
Keely Hodgkinson – 800m
Josh Kerr or Jake Wightman – 1500m
Molly Cowdrey – Pole vault

Sir Steve Redgrave will also be part of talkSPORT’s coverage, and said of Team GB’s hopefuls: “Starting with rowing… The lightweight women’s double, of Emily Craig and Imogen Grant, is where you would put us as firm favourites to win.

“They were fourth place three years ago on a photograph finish. It was quite a dramatic finish to the race but they just missed out by literally a fraction of a second.

“Since then they have dominated the world. I don’t think they’ve been beaten, certainly unbeaten this year as a combination.

“You’ve got the men’s eight, women’s and men’s fours, women’s quadruple skull, men’s pair – they have all got a chance of gold medals.

“So of those 14 golds, 10 of them I think are going to be divided between ourselves and the Netherlands.

“Other sports you’ve got Emma Wilson who was bronze medalist at windsurfing three years ago. She’s at the top of her game, has been for a number of years. Now a highlight of winning bronze three years ago. The event has slightly changed. It’s now a foil windsurf.

“But she’s been around first, second place for the last couple of years and very much looking forward to turning her bronze into gold.

“It will be really interesting to see how Adam Peaty’s doing. Obviously with well-publicised mental processes of struggling a little bit, but coming back after having a break from sports.

“He’s obviously a multiple gold medalist at the Olympics. We always have big hopes. Having that break, will that interfere? I know he’s been back on form the last couple of times he’s raced.”

Umpire forced to separate Alexander Zverev and Arthur Fils as row erupts in bad tempered final

Martha Riley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:53:06 +0000

Arthur Fils clinched the Hamburg Open in controversial fashion as he won an explosive final against Alexander Zverev.

The Frenchman edged the world number four with a 6-3 3-6 7-6 (7) victory, but a fiery moment towards the end of the deciding set will go down as the game’s major talking point.

Tempers flared as Fils confronted Zverev during the marathon encounter

Credit: Sky Sports

With the score locked at 5-5 in the third set and facing a break point, Fils attempted an underarm serve which was initially called in, but was later judged to have been out after review.

Although the 20-year-old regrouped to win both the point and eventually the game, the cheeky attempt managed to infuriate both Zverev and the home crowd, who resorted to booing.

After noticing the German’s clear disapproval at the shot choice, Fils then confronted his opponent at the changeover.

Things soon got heated as the French star appeared increasingly frustrated with Zverev, who reportedly accused his counterpart of having ‘zero respect’.

The situation was quickly diffused as umpire Timo Janzen left his chair to separate the two players, with the crowd continuing to jeer Fils as he was escorted away.

The hostile reception did little to impact his game however, with Fils ultimately winning the decisive tiebreak to secure the match, and the tournament, his first ever ATP 500 title.

And the bad-feeling continued afterwards when the pair shook hands, as Zverev avoided eye-contact with his rival and muttered to himself whilst shaking his head as he walked away.

After the marathon encounter, which lasted three hours and 31 minutes, Fils defended his actions during the controversial moment.

Credit: Tennis TV Fils attempted an underarm serve at a crucial point in the final[/caption]

Credit: Tennis TVZverev appeared incredulous at the shot choice[/caption]

Credit: Tennis TVZverev avoided eye-contact with his rival during the post-match handshake, still clearly frustrated with the incident[/caption]

Explaining in his post-match interview that he chose to serve underarm as a result of cramp, he said: “I’m really happy about how I played. I did everything for winning this match.

“I got cramps, when I was serving I was cramping. I was trying underarm serves because I cannot serve. The crowd took it badly but I don’t care, I’m winning and that’s it.”

And despite he and Zverev not seeing eye-to-eye at during the tense final, Fils paid tribute to his opponent: “Sascha [Zverev] is such a great champion. He’s such a great champion playing unbelievable tennis.

“I knew from the start that it wasn’t going to be easy.”

Fils needs help with the fizz

Up steps Zverev…@hamburgopenatp | #HamburgOpenATP500 | @ArthurFils1 pic.twitter.com/mqC7WMOvB0
— ATP Tour (@atptour) July 21, 2024

The two certainly appeared to have put their earlier dispute behind them by the time of the trophy presentation, as Zverev sprayed Fils with his tournament-winning champagne, whilst smiling.

He also reserved some praise for his adversary, as he said afterwards: “Arthur and your team, well done. Great week and you deserve your title. Enjoy the moment.”

Both players will now turn their attention to the upcoming Paris Olympics at Roland-Garros, where Zverev will look to defend his crown, having clinched gold at the last instalment in Tokyo.

Zverev will face stiff competition at the prestigious competition, with reigning Wimbledon and French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz bidding for glory, whilst tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray will also be taking part in their final Games.

Meanwhile, Fils heads into his first ever Olympic campaign as the local hope, having grown up just miles away from the historic venue in the Parisian suburbs.

Harry Redknapp turned down chance to sign Arsenal legend and took ‘useless’ mate instead

Callum Vurley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:52:00 +0000

Harry Redknapp is well-known for his ability to spot talent, but when he first started out in management, he missed a real gem of a player.

If Harry rates you then the chances are you’d be following him to various club – looking at you, Niko Krancjar.

Redknapp started his career out in management at Bournemouth

Rex Features

At the age of 76, he has decided his time in the dugout is over after a career spanning Tottenham, Portsmouth, Southampton, West Ham and more.

But it all started in 1983 when he became manager of Bournemouth and, after three years of management, he snapped up a young Carl Richards from Enfield Town.

However, while Richards would toil at Bournemouth, his mate proved to go on and have a fantastic career – Arsenal legend Ian Wright.

Writing in his book ‘Always Managing’, Redknapp held nothing back when speaking about the duo.

He wrote: “I bought Carl for £10,000, went to pick him up from Enfield and while he went in to say goodbye to his manager, he left me with his mate.

“‘What are you signing him for?’ said this kid. ‘I’m 10 times better than him. I’ve got 26 goals this season, he’s only got 12. I’m different class than him. Why don’t you sign me?’

“I was worried. ‘I can’t buy you, I’m buying him,’ I told Carl’s mate, ‘but I’ll keep an eye out for you, don’t worry.

“So we took Carl and he was absolutely useless. He could run, but that was about it. We played about six games, couldn’t win one. Carl was terrible.

Redknapp missed out on the chance to sign Wright, who made his name at Crystal Palace before joining Arsenal in 1991

Getty

“After about four games of this, he came to see me. ‘I’ve got a mate,’ he said. ‘He was asking if he could have a trial. He’s a striker, like me.’

“‘And is he as good as you, Carl?’ I asked, suspiciously. ‘No, he’s not as good as me,’ he said, ‘but he’s decent.’

Wright went on to become an Arsenal legend and scored 185 goals in his trophy-laden career

Allsport - Getty

“‘Well, tell him not to f***ing bother then,’ I snapped, and that was the end of it.

“The following Saturday, we went to play Crystal Palace. ‘My mate, the one who wanted a trial, he’s playing for Palace today,’ said Carl. ‘Oh good,’ I thought. ‘No problem there then.’

“Anyway, three goals later I realised Carl wasn’t much of a scout, either. His mate’s name? Ian Wright, who went on to score 238 league goals.”

Wright, who had joined Palace from Greenwich Borough in 1985, had an incredible career first with Crystal Palace then as a Premier League striker with Arsenal and West Ham.

And it wasn’t just Arsenal who were interested in signing Wright. Former Chelsea player Andy Townsend was asked by his manager to see if Palace star Wright would consider moving to Stamford Bridge in 1990.

He explained to talkSPORT Drive: “It is very natural for clubs when a particular team have a player that they fancy and you know, they ask you do a bit of the dirty work.

Among the list of Arsenal honours is a Premier League, two FA Cups the League Cup and Cup Winners Cup, pictured above

Getty

“They ask you to find out about certain players. I’ll never forget the one that got away, if you like.

“I remember Bobby Campbell – God rest him – telling me, ‘I am desperate to get Ian Wright’. I remember talking to Wrighty as we walked off once at Selhurst Park saying, ‘Would you come to Chelsea?’ and Wrighty said, ‘Yeah, I would!’

“Whether or not he would have, there would have been loads of people talking to Wrighty at the time, I am sure. But that sort of thing goes on.”

Townsend, though, acknowledged his pal made the right move in the end. When he finished his career he scored 185 goals, putting him second behind Thierry Henry on the all-time list.

He won the Premier League and FA Cup double under Arsene Wenger in 1998 as well as another FA Cup in 1993 along with the League Cup, plus the Cup Winners Cup in 1994.

As for Redknapp, he left Bournemouth in 1992 and became manager of West Ham in 1994 and attempted to sign future Ballon d’Or winner Andriy Shevchenko shortly after that.

“We fixed up a game with Barnet reserves. Shevchenko got two goals and we liked him but he was about £1million.

“I remember talking to Frank after and saying, ‘That is too much money’. He was only about 17 or 18.”

Ouch.

Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news at talkSPORT’s live blog

When is Dina Asher-Smith in action at Paris Olympics? Dates, start times and events as Team GB star seeks medal

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:31:05 +0000

Dina Asher-Smith represents one of Team GB’s best chances of track success at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The 28-year-old has two Olympic bronze medals to her name from 2016 and 2020, but she will be hoping to go two steps further this time.

Asher Smith was 200 metre world champion in Doha

AFP

The Londoner became a world champion in 2019 but couldn’t deliver gold in Tokyo, but the whole of Britain will be backing her this time.

And she has plenty of opportunities to win some medals.

Here, talkSPORT.com takes a look at when you can see her in action.

When is Dina Asher Smith in action?

Asher-Smith has a relatively long wait until she gets her Olympic campaign underway.

The games will start on Friday, July 26, but the women’s 100 metres doesn’t get going until Friday, August 2.

That is expected to start at 10:35am UK time.

The next round takes place at 11:50am, with the semi-final and final the following day.

Should she make it to either, they are due to start at 7:50pm and 9:20pm.

The women’s 200 metre heats take place on Sunday, August 4, and the 100 metre relay heats are on Thursday, August 8.

Team GB’s women’s relay team represent a good chance of a medal

Getty

Asher-Smith's Olympic events

Women’s 100m

Preliminary – Friday, August 2 – 10:35am

Round one – Friday, August 2 – 11:50am

Semi-final – Saturday, August 3 – 7:50pm

Final – Saturday, August 3 – 9:20pm

Women’s 200m

Round one – Sunday, August 4 – 10:55am

Repechage round – Monday, August 5 – 12:50pm

Semi-final – Monday, August 5 – 8:45pm

Final – Tuesday, August 6 – 9:40pm

Women’s 4 x 100m relay

Round one – Thursday, August 8 – 11:10am

Final – Friday, August 9 – 7:30pm

Should Asher-Smith make it through the 200m heats, she would gain a place in the semi-final on Monday, August 5, at 8:45pm before the final the following day in the Stade de France.

The relay takes place near the end of the athletics cycle, and it’s over in two days.

Round one is on Thursday, August 8, starting at 11:10am, and the final is a day later at 7:30pm.

talkSPORT will have live coverage of all of Smith’s races.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

When is Tom Daley in action at Paris Olympics? Date, time and event as Team GB diver prepares for record fifth Games

Jack Johnson — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:29:30 +0000

Tom Daley will be aiming to defend his Olympic gold medal in Paris.

The 29-year-old is set to feature at the Games exactly 16 years on from when he made his debut with Team GB at Beijing 2008.

Daley and Matty Lee won gold in Tokyo

getty

Daley took a break from diving after winning gold in Tokyo, but he has returned and is set to become the first British diver to compete at five Olympics.

He will be partnered by Noah Williams in his event and here, talkSPORT.com takes a look at when you can see them in action…

When is Tom Daley in action?

Daley will be competing in the 10m synchronised platform event.

Along with Williams, he gets his 2024 Olympics underway on Monday, July 29.

There are no preliminaries in the synchronised events, meaning the pair will be thrown straight into fighting for a medal.

The final will begin at 10am UK time.

It is set to be the second diving event of the summer after the Women’s synchronised 3m springboard final kicks things off.

Daley and Williams won silver at the World Championships in February and team up again aiming to go one better in Paris.

After success with Lee (right), Daley will now be partnered by Williams

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After the Team GB diving team was announced, Chef de Mission Mark England said: “All four pairs have proven that they can challenge for podium places on the world stage.

“And it is fantastic to see the calibre of diving athletes getting stronger and stronger with each Games.

“There is also a fantastic mix of youth and experience within the squad, and I am delighted to welcome Olympic Champions Jack [Laugher] and Tom [Daley] back to Team GB for a fourth and fifth Games respectively.

“Congratulations to Tom in particular who becomes the first British diver to compete at five Olympic Games, a remarkable achievement.”

You can follow all of Daley and William’s dives in Paris live on talkSPORT this summer!

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

Why do Team GB not have a football team in the 2024 Paris Olympics? Nation absent from Games due to unique rule

Joe Brophy — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:25:00 +0000

Football at the Olympics could have offered a chance for England fans to quickly get over their Euro heartbreak, but Team GB will not be taking part.

Great Britain have not fielded a side in the men’s football event since London 2012 while the women will also be a no-show in France.

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs captained Team GB at London 2012

All you need to know about the football at Paris Olympics

European qualification for the men’s tournament this summer came from the 2023 UEFA Under-21 Euros, which England won.

But an ongoing dispute meant lifting the silverware didn’t book Team GB‘s Olympic spot, with Israel and Ukraine instead qualifying alongside runners-up Spain.

Here, talkSPORT.com breaks down why Team GB doesn’t have a men’s or women’s team in Paris…

Why do Team GB not have a men’s football team?

Unlike the FIFA-governed World Cup and the European Championship, the Olympics are overseen by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

In FIFA/UEFA competitions, each representative of the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland) have their own FA and thus competes individually.

In the IOC, however, the home nations are registered as one entity under the name Great Britain and rack up medals as such.

British teams regularly featured, and were successful, in the Olympic football events in the early 20th century.

Great Britain claimed gold unofficially at Paris 1900, before officially at London 1908 and then retaining their title at Stockholm 1912.

Team GB won’t be playing Olympic football this summer

However, over time, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland allayed fears their independence in FIFA/UEFA tournaments would be risked if they continued competing as a single entity in the Olympics.

Team GB’s participation in Olympic men’s football was then stopped in the 1970s, with only a brief exception for London 2012 made since.

The Games being held on home soil eventually led to an agreement to compete in a squad that contained 13 English and 5 Welsh players.

There were no Scottish or Northern Irish representatives as Team GB eventually crashed out on penalties to South Korea in the quarter-finals.

A similar agreement has not been made for any of the three Olympic Games since, meaning England’s win in last summer’s Under-21 Euros didn’t see them book a plane to Paris.

The Lionesses failed to secure Team GB a women’s football spot at the Olympics

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Why do Team GB not have a women’s football team?

Team GB’s women’s squad also competed at London 2012 but, unlike the men, they have been able to qualify for the Games since.

While no agreement between the home nations was reached for Brazil 2016, the women’s team was reborn for Tokyo 2020.

In both editions though, they suffered quarter-final exits.

The agreement between the home nations sees the highest-ranking women’s team between the four attempts to claim one of the three European spots available that would be handed to Team GB.

For the 2024 Olympics, that honour fell to England but the Lionesses fell short having only finished second in their Nations League group.

They beat Scotland 6-0 in their last group game but it still wasn’t enough to book their place at the Games.

Football at 2024 Olympic Games: Dates, schedule, format and teams involved in Paris plus when gold medals will be won

Jack Johnson — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:21:00 +0000

Following on from Euro 2024 and Copa America, top-level international football will continue at the Paris Olympics this week.

Some of the best footballers from around the world will be in France looking to achieve a lifetime goal of winning an Olympic gold medal.

Brazil won gold at Tokyo 2020 but haven’t qualified this time around

AFP

Four years ago in Tokyo, Barcelona legend Dani Alves led Brazil to glory in the men’s event while Canada came out on top in the women’s tournament.

Unfortunately, Team GB will not have a team in the competition yet again this year.

Here, talkSPORT.com has broken down everything you need to know about football at the 2024 Olympics…

Football at Paris 2024: Dates and schedule

The football events at the Paris Olympics begin on Wednesday, July 24 and will run until Saturday, August 10.

Due to the number of matches being played, the football begins two days before the official opening ceremony on Friday.

In the men’s tournament, the final will be held on Friday, August 9 while for the women, the final will take place a day later.

The winner of each will receive gold medals while runners-up receive silver.

There will also be bronze medal matches held on Thursday, August 8.

Both finals will be held at Paris Saint-German’s Parc des Princes.

The Parc des Princes wil host the finals at the Olympics

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Football stadiums at 2024 Olympics

Parc des Princes, Paris
Stade de Marseille, Marseille
Stade de Lyon, Decines-Charpieu
Stade de Bordeaux, Bordeaux
Stade de Geoffroy-Guichard, Saint-Etienne
Stade de Nice, Nice
Stade de la Beaujoire, Nantes

Football at Paris 2024: Rules and format

The rules of Olympic football are the same as the domestic and international game.

However, there is a change when it comes to requirements in each team with only three players above the age of 23 allowed in each men’s squad.

There are no age restrictions in the women’s squads.

When it comes to the format, in the men’s event, there are 16 countries involved in a tournament-style format, with those teams separated into four groups of four.

In the women’s event, there are 12 countries split into three groups of four.

The top two teams in each group and the two best third-placed teams across all groups progress through to the knockout stages.

After the group stages, the quarter-finals, semi-finals and medal matches will follow.

There will not be a Team GB football squad at this summer’s Olympics

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Past football medal winners

Men’s

Sydney 2000 – Cameroon (Gold), Spain (Silver), Chile (Bronze)
Athens 2004 – Argentina (Gold), Paraguay (Silver), Italy (Bronze)
Beijing 2008 – Argentina (Gold), Nigeria (Silver), Brazil (Bronze)
London 2012 – Mexico (Gold), Brazil (Silver), South Korea (Bronze)
Rio 2016 – Brazil (Gold), Germany (Silver), Nigeria (Bronze)
Tokyo 2020 – Brazil ( Gold), Spain (Silver), Mexico (Bronze)

Women’s

Sydney 2000 – Norway (Gold), USA (Silver), Germany (Bronze)
Athens 2004 – USA (Gold), Brazil (Silver), Germany (Bronze)
Beijing 2008 – USA (Gold), Brazil (Silver), Germany (Bronze)
London 2012 – USA (Gold), Japan (Silver), Canada (Bronze)
Rio 2016 – Germany (Gold), Sweden (Silver), Canada (Bronze)
Tokyo 2020 – Canada (Gold), Sweden (Silver), USA (Bronze)

Football at Paris 2024: Teams and notable players

Below are the groups for the Olympics:

Men’s

Group A: France, USA, Guinea, New Zealand
Group B: Argentina, Morocco, Iraq, Ukraine
Group C: Uzbekistan, Spain, Egypt, Dominican Republic
Group D: Japan, Paraguay, Mali, Israel

Women’s

Group A: France, Colombia, Canada, New Zealand
Group B: USA, Zambia, Germany, Australia
Group C: Spain, Japan, Nigeria, Brazil

There are many footballing stars set to feature at the Paris Olympics.

France and Arsenal icon Thierry Henry is managing the host’s team while ex-Barcelona and Liverpool legend Javier Mascherano coaches Argentina.

On the pitch, it’s the French side that boasts some unbelievable quality.

Michael Olise, who is set to join Bayern Munich, will play while PSG’s young stars Warren Zaire-Emery and Bradley Barcola will also be there.

Jean-Philippe Mateta, Lesley Ugochukwu, Khepren Thuram and Leny Yoro are some other highly-rated players in European football playing for Henry’s side.

Olise will be part of Henry’s squad at their home Olympics

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Away from France, Thiago Almada will star for Argentina who tried to take Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez but the Blues blocked him from going.

Manchester City’s Sergio Gomez is set to play for Spain alongside Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez and Chelsea-linked Samu Omorodion.

Women’s football legend Alex Morgan won’t be part of Emma Hayes’ USA team but Arsenal’s Emily Fox and Chelsea’s Catarina Macario will be there.

Real Madrid’s Hayley Raso and Man City’s Mary Fowler will be playing for Australia.

Football at Paris 2024: How to follow

talkSPORT will be covering the entirety of the Olympic Games.

Our multi-award-winning presenters and pundits will provide fans with unlimited coverage and content from Paris.

talkSPORT.com will also keep you up to date with all the latest.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

The Olympics will also be shown across all of the BBC’s channels in the UK.

This can be viewed for free on TV as well as live-streamed through the BBC Website or BBC iPlayer via tablet or mobile devices.

TNT Sports and Discovery+ will also have coverage with the action broadcast live on Eurosport with fans able to subscribe here.

Inside the Paris Olympic village where 14,000 athletes will live during Games including 300,000 condoms, bread-making lessons but no McDonald’s

Joe Moore — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:18:00 +0000

The Olympic Village has been a staple of the Games since Paris 1924 – but it’s come a long, long way since then.

What started as just a number of cabins built for those competing at the nearby Stade de Colombes has now grown into a huge residential complex for athletes, complete with a cavernous dining hall, a bank and a post office… although the beds are made from cardboard.

The looming entrance to Olympic Village in Saint-Denis, north of Paris

AFP

A century on from its first iteration at Paris 1924, the Olympic Village is more sophisticated than ever.

The Paris 2024 Village has cost around €2billion (£1.7billion), is the size of 70 football pitches, and will house 14,000 athletes and entourage members during the Olympics. A further 9,000 athletes and their teams will then be welcomed for the Paralympics.

Located in the north of Paris, straddling Saint-Denis, Saint Ouen and L’lle-Saint-Denis on the River Seine, the Olympic Village will have some of the world’s best sports stars behind its gates.

Understandably, the complex has extremely high-security. But while it might be impossible to get inside during Paris 2024, we can give you a sneak peek of what the Olympic Village will be like during the Games.

World-class facilities

The Paris 2024 Olympic Village was designed in collaboration with athletes from all over the world, who put forward their own ideas and requirements.

“We really took a step back to listen to different views and ensure that everything we decided was not based on a French or European vision, but instead was built to serve the needs of all athletes worldwide,” said the chair of the Paris 2024 Athletes’ Commission Martin Fourcade, when the Olympic Village was inaugurated in February.

The consultation process produced a complex of 82 buildings, 3,000 apartments and 7,200 bedrooms, with wide-ranging facilities including a 24-hour fitness centre, bank, post office, hair salon, multi-faith centre and medical clinic.

The 3,500-seater main dining hall will be a key part of athlete life in the Olympic Village. Around 40,000 meals a day are expected to be prepared during the Games, based on four themes – French, Asian, African-Caribbean and world cuisine. One-third of the 500 recipes made will be vegetarian.

Athletes from Australia and Brazil were the first to arrive

AFP

The Paris 2024 Olympic Village spans the river Seine

AFP

There will also be a salad bar with more than 30 options, a meat grill, a cheese section, a bakery, a hot food buffet, a dessert bar and a wide range of fruits.

Athletes will not just be able to taste French delicacies – they will also be able to have a go at making them. A bakery in the Olympic Village will hold workshops teaching athletes how to make a perfect baguette.

There will be specific training venues for fencing, modern pentathlon, wrestling, weightlifting, basketball and breaking, while the Village Club will allow athletes to relax, socialise and watch coverage of the Games.

Indeed, in contrast to Tokyo 2020, delegations will be encouraged to interact with each other during their time at the Olympic Village.

With Tokyo 2020 taking place during the coronavirus pandemic, Olympians had been asked to limit their physical contact with each other. These rules have clearly been lifted for Paris 2024 – the Olympic Village is set to stock 300,000 condoms, which have been handed out at the Games since Seoul 1988.

Organisers will still look to maintain a sense of peace and quiet in the Olympic Village for the athletes still preparing for competition, with director Laurent Michaud confirming there would be no alcohol available on site. But athletes looking to celebrate their success at the Games will easily be able to travel into the centre of Paris to party the night away.

Athletes with a fast-food craving will have to journey off-site to get their fix, too, with no McDonald’s in the village this time. Previous Games saw competitors have their own Maccies restaurant on their doorstep, and the best part was that it was completely free! Usain Bolt admitted he was fuelled by chicken nuggets at London 2012 and Rio 2016, but athletes at Paris 2024 will not have the same privileges as McDonald’s ended their long-standing partnership – which began in the 1970s – with the Olympics in 2017.

As for the apartments, athletes will share a bedroom with one other and a bathroom with three others. The beds are constructed with cardboard, but are sturdy enough to support 250 kilograms of weight.

Athletes’ bedrooms are pretty basic, but each apartment features a living space and bathroom

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A closer look at the cardboard beds athletes will sleep on during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

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The interior of the apartments look spartan, and some athletes have previously decided to skip the atmosphere of the Village to stay in more luxurious accommodation.

The US basketball team, which has previously included stars such as LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, are among those to not stay at the Olympic Village in the past. Novak Djokovic is another to have chosen to sleep in a hotel, although the tennis world No. 1 still visited the Village often during the Games.

Satellite villages across France… and Tahiti

While the Olympic Village in Paris will be the biggest residential complex during the Games, a number of satellite villages have also been constructed across France.

These will be situated in Châteauroux for athletes in the shooting competition, Lille Métropole for basketball and handball players, and Marseille for those in the sailing competition.

In addition, the surfing contest will take place more than 15,000km from Paris, on the powerful waves off the coast of Tahiti. Organisers have come up with a unique solution to house these athletes – they will be accommodated on a cruise ship anchored in Vairao Bay.

Meanwhile, the football tournament is set to be held in six cities alongside Paris – Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Nice and Saint-Etienne. Hotel accommodation has been found in each of these cities for the players.

Athletes will stay in apartment complexes just outside Paris

AFP

The environmentally-friendly apartment blocks feature solar panels and green roofs

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Environmental credentials

The Olympic Village has been built to be as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible, meeting Paris 2024’s ambition to be a low-carbon Games.

This means the Village has been constructed with organically-sourced materials and equipped with solar panels, as well as water reuse and air purification systems. It will aim to protect and encourage biodiversity with rooftops built to house insects and birds, and enclosures with openings for small animals to pass through.

A large part of the Olympic Village’s sustainable legacy will be its transformation after the Games into a residential neighbourhood. It will start to be repurposed in November 2024, leading to 2,500 new homes, a student residence, a hotel, gardens, parks, offices and shops. It is hoped this will meet the living needs of 6,000 residents.

So once the Games are over and the athletes of Paris 2024 depart the Village, the legacy of the Olympics will still live on through these new residents.

The Olympics are on talkSPORT this summer, and you can tune in via our free online streaming service at talkSPORT.com

Tony Bellew blames Jake Paul for ‘sad’ Mike Tyson fight which could see legend damage record including Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis

Ben Davies — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:15:05 +0000

Tony Bellew believes Mike Tyson does not need a ‘sad’ fight with Jake Paul on his professional record.

Paul took on, and knocked out, late replacement Mike Perry at the weekend, which has set up his rescheduled showdown with heavyweight legend Tyson on November 15.

The result of Tyson’s fight with Paul will go on his pro record

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Tyson’s clash with the influencer will surprisingly be a sanctioned professional contest, which could leave a stain on his glittering resume if he is to fall to defeat.

And former world champion Tony Bellew believes it is not a good look for his legacy, but understands why the icon accepted the offer.

“Of course the world is full of freaks and people want to watch this nonsense,” Bellew said on talkSPORT Breakfast.

“Who would want to watch Mike Tyson get in the ring at this age? He is one of my heroes and an icon of the sport.

“This egotistical clown demanded that this goes on Mike Tyson’s actual professional record. He wasn’t happy with it being an exhibition.

“How saddening is that? You are going to read names like Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis on his record, legendary names.

“And then you are going to read Jake Paul, it is sad, it is so so sad. But I get it.

“It is about money, I can’t knock it from Mike’s perspective, I know everyone has a price. But just have it as an exhibition.”

Bellew has heaped the blame on Paul

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Tyson will earn a lucrative purse for the huge event, which will be his first professional appearance since 2008.

The ferocious puncher is now 58 and suffers from multiple medical conditions which have led to justifiable concerns for his health.

Before halting training after suffering an ‘ulcer flare up’, he had been posting regular footage from camp where he still appeared to possess power in short bursts.

And Bellew hopes the dynamite hands will be enough to see Tyson over the line in an uphill battle against age.

He continued: “Jake you couldn’t have carried this man’s jock strap when he was professional.

“It is so sad if you inflict a professional KO loss on his record at his age.

“The only thing I ope for is that Tyson has one last decent punch in him, clips him and he goes out like a light.

“Imagine getting knocked out by a 60-year-old fella mate.”

Boxing WhatsApp channel

Get the latest fight news, reaction and the best opinion from talkSPORT pundits in our Boxing WhatsApp channel.

Follow our Boxing channel HERE.

Premier League and Championship double: Get a 400/1 Lucky Dip with talkSPORT BET

Will Stanley — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:12:47 +0000

The new Premier League season kicks off in just three weeks time, with the EFL starting a week sooner.

And talkSPORT BET have unveiled a new Lucky Dip feature, which gives punters the chance to score some fantastic odds when you spin the wheel, which can be used by following this link.

US Open Lucky Dip: Get incredible odds with talkSPORT BET’s new feature

talkSPORT BET: 400/1 Lucky Dip for Premier League and Championship winner double – CLAIM HERE

talkSPORT BET have recently introduced a feature called Lucky Dip, where the chance of some incredible odds on your favourite events are just a random selection away.

Operating on multiple markets, just look out for the Lucky Dip feature to get started and get your random selection. This is your chance to potentially get brilliant odds on the events that matter to you.

How To Play

Choose your Lucky Dip market.
Enter your stake and spin the Wheel.
Receive your random selection.

For example, ahead of the upcoming football season, punters can get odds of 400/1 on bookies’ favourites Manchester City and Leeds, despite having a normal double pricing of just 7/2!

Manchester City head into the new Premier League campaign as the four-time defending champions, and remain the team to beat as they lead the pre-season odds list as the the bookies’ favourite, with talkSPORT BET pricing them at 6/5 to win an unprecedented fifth title in a row.

Arsenal, having finished runner up to City in each of the last two seasons keep their place as second favourites to the title, priced only slightly further behind at 15/8.

Liverpool are 7/1 to win the Premier League title in their first season under Arne Slot following the end of Jurgen Klopp’s nine year stint as manager at the end of last season, while Chelsea, who also have a new man in the hotseat in Enzo Maresca, are fourth favourites at 12/1.

In the Championship, Leeds are the bookies’ favourite for the Championship title after their third placed finish last season which saw them reach the play-off final, only to lose to Southampton at Wembley.

Championship title winners from two years ago, Burnley, are back in the second division following relegation from the top flight last season, and are second favourites for the title at 6/1 under new manager Scott Parker.

Luton, another side relegated from last season’s Premier League, and Middlesbrough are joint-third in the odds list at 10/1 to lif the Championship title winners’ trophy in May next year.

2024-25 Premier League winner odds (talkSPORT BET):

Manchester City – 6/5
Arsenal – 15/8
Liverpool – 7/1
Chelsea – 12/1
Manchester United – 25/1
Newcastle – 33/1
Tottenham – 33/1
Aston Villa – 66/1

2024-25 Championship winner odds (talkSPORT BET):

Leeds – 10/3
Burnley – 6/1
Luton – 10/1
Middlesbrough – 10/1
Coventry – 14/1
Norwich – 14/1
Sheffield United – 14/1
West Brom – 14/1

All odds correct at time of writing.

talkSPORT BET: Bet £10 Get £30 In Free Bets (app only) – CLAIM HERE*

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Tottenham told to consider £80m raid on Manchester United to sign Marcus Rashford

Josh Fordham — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:04:53 +0000

Jamie O’Hara admitted he would ‘love to see’ Marcus Rashford at Tottenham despite his lacklustre season at Old Trafford.

The 26-year-old managed just eight goals across all competitions for the Red Devils in the 2023/24 season, 22 fewer than the previous campaign.

Rashford is currently on Man United’s pre-season tour

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His form also saw him miss out on the England squad for Euro 2024 with Gareth Southgate opting to take the likes of Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, and Eberechi Eze instead.

But that hasn’t stopped former Tottenham midfielder, and talkSPORT host, Jamie O’Hara calling for Rashford to make the London move.

“I’ve got a soft spot for Rashford,” O’Hara said on talkSPORT Breakfast.

“I don’t know why because watching him last season frustrated the hell out of me. When he’s walking around at Luton and you’re thinking come on mate give me more, but he’s got star quality.

“He’s got the X-factor and if you get a manager who gets the best out of him you’re going to get a top player.

Rashford has also endured a turbulent relationship with Man United manager Erik ten Hag. The winger’s decision to go to a nightclub after October’s 3-0 derby defeat to Man City was branded ‘unacceptable’ by Ten Hag at the time.

“He doesn’t get on with Erik ten Hag, that’s a problem that they’ve got to solve,” O’Hara added.

“You can’t have someone on £375,000-a-week just sitting on the bench not doing anything and not featuring and not being involved. He’s got to play, you’ve got to find a way of getting him in the team.

Rashford was left out of the Euro 2024 squad

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“He makes brilliant runs, but never gets the ball. Would you pay £80m for him? Yes I would, I would love to see him at Tottenham.”

Marcus Rashford has been at Man United since he was seven years old and debuted for the first team in 2016 in a game against Midtjylland.

Last season (23/24) he scored just seven Premier League goals, provided two assists and played 681 fewer minutes than the campaign before.

Whether United would consider selling Rashford to a Premier League club is another matter.

Olympic Golf Competition: Dates, field, tee times and players involved in Paris plus when gold medals will be won

Jack Johnson — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:56:00 +0000

Golf returns at the 2024 Olympics this summer for its third straight edition at the Games.

The sport was reintroduced to the iconic event in 2016 following a 112-year absence and it has now become a regular inclusion.

Scottie Scheffler will be a huge favourite to win gold

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In Rio eight years ago, Team GB’s Justin Rose won gold before new Open champion Xander Schauffele came out on top for the USA in Tokyo.

Meanwhile, Nelly Korda claimed golf gold in Japan for the USA and South Korea’s Inbee Park won four years prior.

Here, talkSPORT.com takes a look at the field for this year’s Olympics and provides all the details for what should be a thrilling event…

Golf at Paris 2024: Dates and schedule

Golf at the Olympics will begin on Thursday, August 1 at Le Golf National near Versailles.

That is when the men’s event gets underway with play continuing for four rounds until the final round on Sunday, August 4.

The women’s event then gets started on Wednesday, August 7 and comes to a close four days later on Saturday, August 10.

It is after each final round that the gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded.

Golf at Paris 2024: Format

The golf format at the Olympics is the usual for a tournament – stroke play.

It consists of counting the number of strokes it takes each player to complete 18 holes.

There will be four rounds of action and whichever player has the lowest overall score will win gold.

Golf medalists at past Olympics

2020 Tokyo Olympics

Men

Gold – Xander Schauffele, United States
Silver – Rory Sabbatini, Slovakia
Bronze – CT Pan, Chinese Taipei

Women

Gold – Nelly Korda, United States
Silver – Mone Inami, Japan
Bronze – Lydia Ko, New Zealand

2016 Rio Olympics

Men

Gold – Justin Rose, Great Britain
Silver – Henrik Stenson, Sweden
Bronze – Matt Kuchar, United States

Women

Gold – Inbee Park, South Korea
Silver – Lydia Ko, New Zealand
Bronze – Shanshan Feng, China

Justin Rose won gold for Team GB at Rio 2016

Golf at Paris 2024: Field and notable players

There will be 120 athletes playing at the Olympics in total with 60 competing in the men’s event and 60 in the women’s.

37 different countries will be represented during the Games this summer.

The USA have the most competitors across both genders with seven while other nations range from one to five.

One of those players representing the USA is World No.1 and golf’s most dominant figure over the last year, Scottie Scheffler.

Countries competing at Paris 2024

Men’s and Women’s Golf

Argentina
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Canada
Chile
China
Colombia
Czech Republic
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Great Britain
India
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Malaysia
Morocco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Philippines
Poland
Puerto Rico
Singapore
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Chinese Taipei
Thailand
USA

Scheffler will be eyeing a gold medal as he headlines a men’s field that will also include Rory McIlroy, former winner Schauffele, Ludvig Aberg, Viktor Hovland and Jon Rahm.

Wyndham Clark, Collin Morikawa, Shane Lowry and Hideki Matsuyama are among the other stars set to feature.

Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick will be representing Team GB.

In the women’s event, World No.1 Nelly Korda will want another medal while Lilia Vu and Ko Jin-young will challenge her for the gold.

Charley Hull will be Team GB’s best hope for glory while Georgia Hall will also be in France.

McIlory will represent Ireland as he eyes gold in Paris

Getty

Golf at Paris 2024: How to follow

talkSPORT have the rights to cover the Paris Olympic Games.

Our multi-award-winning presenters and pundits will provide fans with unlimited coverage and content from Paris.

talkSPORT.com will also keep you up to date with all the latest.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

The Olympics will also be shown across all of the BBC’s channels in the UK.

This can be viewed for free on TV as well as live-streamed through the BBC Website or BBC iPlayer via tablet or mobile devices.

TNT Sports and Discovery+ will also have coverage with the action broadcast live on Eurosport with fans able to subscribe here.

Transfer news LIVE: Aston Villa confirm record £50m Onana with Felix eyed next, Arsenal target Calafiori left out of training camp

TalkSPORT — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:51:00 +0000

The transfer window is in full swing and there has been a flurry of activity this month.

The window is open until Friday, August 30 at 11pm in England, and Premier League clubs have already spent far more than the entirety of the January window.

Kevin De Bruyne has NOT agreed terms with Al Ittihad, contrary to reports suggesting that he was nearing a move to the Saudi Arabian club. He remains a target for them, as does Manchester City teammate Ederson, and City could bring in Gianluigi Donnarumma as his replacement should the Brazilian leave.

Elsewhere, Arsenal are strengthening their defence with the Gunners set to announce the signing of Italian centre-back Riccardo Calafiori, while Aston Villa have splashed out £50m on Amadou Onana and are targeting Joao Felix.

We’ll keep you updated with all the latest gossip and signings as they happen in our live transfer news blog below.

Listen live to talkSPORT

Conor McGregor provides major injury update after being probed by ‘bum beggar’ Michael Chandler

Jordan Ellis — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:49:58 +0000

Conor McGregor claims he is ready to fight Michael Chandler right now.

The two MMA stars were supposed to clash at UFC 303 on June 29, but McGregor broke his pinky toe in training and pulled out of the fight at the last minute.

A minor injury has delayed the Irishaman’s comeback

X - @thenotoriousmma

‘Notorious’ was recently seen at a Bellator event in slippers and claimed that it was because his foot was so swollen that he couldn’t wear shoes.

However, now things look much better for the former two-weight UFC champion.

On Sunday, McGregor shared footage of him hitting a bag with his bare knuckles and tagged the bare-knuckle boxing promotion he co-owns and wants to fight in one day.

Chandler replied: “But show us the bare foot knuckles…”

McGregor lashed in an insult as he assured Chandler he’s fit and healthy.

He said: “Hey bum beggar. The foot is fully healed.”

UFC CEO Dana White will announce a new date for McGregor vs Chandler soon, and they are expected to fight before the end of 2024.

Rumours about their clash taking place at UFC 310 on December 14 have been swirling and ‘Mystic Mac’ has played into them with recent comments about his fight date.

A broken toe has delayed his comeback

@thenotoriousmma - instagram

McGregor insists he’s now fully fit and ready to face Chandler

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“My comeback is scheduled for the end of the year,” McGregor told ESPN.

“Sometime the end of this year, closing out the show.

“So, I was close to returning. We had an incident and a postponement had to happen, and you know, it is what it is. We take it on the chin, we rock on.

“The fight is rescheduled for the end of this calendar year. So, I’m excited about that and eager to get back.”

McGregor hasn’t fought since breaking his leg during a trilogy bout with Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021.

Chandler has been away from the Octagon ever since ‘The Diamond’ choked him out in November 2022 – but he’s not injured and has chosen to remain sidelined.

‘Iron’ is doing everything he can to secure a fight with McGregor and it seems like he will finally get his wish in the next few months.

Arsenal vs Bournemouth LIVE: Gunners start preparations for new season with clash against Premier League side in the US – kick-off time, team news and how to follow

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:47:17 +0000

Arsenal start their preparations for the 2024/25 season with an all-Premier League clash against Bournemouth.

The Gunners just missed out on the top-flight title to Manchester City last year and will want to go one step further this time.

Arteta will be targeting the Premier League title this year

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And to warm-up for the new campaign, the Gunners are heading to the United States, where they will play three Premier League teams, including Liverpool and Manchester United.

But Bournemouth are up first, and the Cherries will be looking to build on a promising first season under Andoni Iraola.

Under the Spaniard, Bournemouth enjoyed a great campaign and were a force to be reckoned with.

Arsenal vs Bournemouth: Date and how to follow

This pre-season clash is set to take place on Wednesday, July 24.

Kick-off at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Los Angeles is set for 7:30pm local time.

That means it it will kick-off at 3:30am on Thursday morning for UK fans.

The game will be streamed on Bournemouth’s website, with fans being asked to pay £5 to watch.

Meanwhile, Arsenal will also show the game on their website as well.

They are offering a deal to watch all of their pre-season fixtures for £9.99,.

More details here.

Bournemouth enjoyed a great season and will be looking to build on that this year

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Arsenal vs Bournemouth: Team news

Due to their involvement in the Euro 2024 final, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale haven’t been included in the squad for the US tour.

However, every other member of the Gunners squad will play some part in the tour, although not all will be involved here.

For example, Kai Havertz, Jorginho and William Saliba are all expected to join up with the team later.

However, Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber are almost certain to be involved in some way.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth have almost taken their full squad to the US.

Milos Kerkez and Ilya Zabarnyi were at Euro 2024 but have both returned after some time off.

However, Enes Unal has a foot injury and will play no part against the Gunners and Luis Sinisterra has been given some extra time off after reaching the Copa America final.

Odegaard didn’t have an international tournament this summer because Norway failed to qualify for Euro 2024

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Arsenal vs Bournemouth: What has been said?

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is targeting the title this year.

He said: “We know the demands in the league and the competition we are facing.

“So, all the work we’re doing is to find ways to get better and to see where the margins can be for our improvement.

“That pain [from last season] is still there, and I think it has to remain there, but after analysing the whole season with all the staff, the team has done a lot, and in any other context ,we would have won the Premier League and that’s a big jump. But it’s not enough.

“We’re really showing our teeth because we want to win and we know that if we want to achieve that in a consistent way and put the club in the position that we want, that’s going to be key.

“First of all, it’s about believing, we have to believe that we are good enough to do it and I feel that belief, and the club is really hungry and we want more.”

Man City vs Celtic LIVE: Premier League champions start pre-season with game against Scottish giants – kick-off time, team news and how to follow

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:43:07 +0000

Manchester City’s preparations for the 2024/25 season start with a friendly against Celtic this week.

The Citizens are one of many top-flight clubs spending pre-season in the United States, and they have a couple of high-profile games.

Pep Guardiola will be raring to go for another season of Premier League football

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Pep Guardiola‘s side saw off Arsenal last year to win their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

Winning a fifth straight title will be in his mind, and the race to the finishing line starts against the Bhoys.

Meanwhile, Celtic will be part of another two-way title race in the SPFL against their bitter inner-city rivals, Rangers.

Brendan Rodgers‘ side just pipped the Gers to the title last season, and they will want to change that, so Celtic will no doubt take this game seriously.

Man City vs Celtic: Date and how to follow

This pre-season friendly is set to take place on Tuesday, July 23.

Kick-off at the Kenan Memorial Stadium in North Carolina is set for 7:30pm local time.

That means it will start at 12:30am on Wednesday morning in the UK.

The game will be streamed on the club’s website and their app.

CITY+ will be where the match is shown, and you can either pay £34.99 for the year or £4.99 per month.

More details here.

Celtic will use games like these to prepare for the upcoming season

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Man City vs Celtic: Team news

City have named their squad for the tour of the US, and there are plenty of notable absentees.

Most of their players who were involved at Euro 2024 or the Copa America have been left behind.

This even applies to those who didn’t make it that far in their respective competitions.

So, there is no Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri or Phil Foden, among others.

But Erling Haaland, Jack Grealish and Ederson are all in the squad, so should get minutes against Celtic.

Other players are expected to join up with the squad later on, but it’s unclear if any of them will be able to play this match.

Meanwhile, Celtic will be without Alistair Johnston after his participation in the Copa America.

Anthony Ralston and Greg Taylor were both part of the Scotland Euro 2024 squad and are back after an extended period of time off.

Grealish will get an early chance to impress Guardiola after England snubbed him

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Man City vs Celtic: What has been said?

Man City’s Rico Lewis has opened up about what Guardiola tells his players every year.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “I think he tells us every year, it’s not enough.

“Even though, we’ve done so much, it’s not enough and like I said before, it’s the standard that we’ve set for ourselves and it’s something that we have to adhere to.

“And he makes sure that if he senses or thinks that anyone thinks that it’s over or they can slack off, it’s not good enough.”

Xander Schauffele lets his dad have the first drink from Claret Jug as America celebrates first sweep of golf majors since 1982

Brian T. Smith — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:36:47 +0000

Xander Schauffele had one person in his mind after he conquered the 152nd Open Championship.

His father.

GettyXander Schauffele was ready to share the joy of the Claret Jug[/caption]

Schauffele has won two majors this season (The Open, PGA Championship) and is up to No. 2 in the Official World Golf Rankings, only trailing Scottie Scheffler.

After dominating the final day at Royal Troon with a 65 on Sunday and finishing nine-under par, Schauffele was eager to place his hands on the famed Claret Jug.

But his father, Stefan, had first dibs.

“I’m just curious to see what my dad is going to pick as a first drink to drink out of this,” Schauffele said.

“He’s going to have to figure out what he wants to put in there because he’s taking the first gulp out of it.”

The 30-year-old California native was surrounded by his family after the huge win.

He planned to let his father have first choice, then enjoy the pleasures of the Claret himself.

“I just can’t wait to drink out of it,” Schauffele said. “It really is a dream come true to be holding this.”

GettySchauffele and his father, Stefan, enjoyed a special moment after The Open[/caption]

Schauffele also captured the big moment with his family

Getty

He has more than $54 million in career earnings and nine PGA Tour wins.

The 2024 season has been a career breakthrough for Schauffele, who previously won tournaments including the Zurich Classic, Travelers Championship and Sentry Tournament of Champions.

Seven years after capturing the Greenbrier Classic, Schauffele is on top of the golf world.

While Scheffler struggled on Sunday, his American counterpart was as smooth as possible at rough and windy Royal Troon.

“I (felt) pretty calm coming down this stretch,” Schauffele said.

Americans dominated the majors in 2024.

Scheffler took the Masters, Schauffele won the PGA and Open Championships, and Bryson DeChambeau captured the US Open with a memorable finish and celebration.

It was America’s first sweep of golf’s majors since 1982.

AMERICA'S CLEAN SWEEP

The Masters: Scottie Scheffler
PGA Championship: Xander Schauffele
US Open: Bryson DeChambeau
The Open: Xander Schauffele

That year, Craig Stadler won the Masters, Tom Watson took the US Open and Open Championship, and Raymond Floyd prevailed at the PGA Championship.

In May, Schauffele celebrated his first PGA major win in style.

After fending off DeChambeau, Schauffele lifted the famous Wanamaker Trophy, which stands nearly 2.5 feet and weighs 27 pounds.

Then Schauffele really got down to business after his 21-under par domination.

Video footage showed the No. 2 golfer in the world watching champagne poured into the big silver trophy.

Schauffele then lifted up the hardware, tipped the Wanamaker backward and happily indulged in a beverage of champions.

He also tried to trash talk Michael Jordan after the win — and it didn’t go well.

“I did my best version of it,” Schauffele said. “And then he beat me straight up, which is embarrassing.”

Air Jordan has never won the Claret Jug, though.

The 3M Open and 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are next on the golf calendar.

The greatest walk in golf for Xander Schauffele. pic.twitter.com/xYY9yv5D1B
— The Open (@TheOpen) July 21, 2024

UFC 304 LIVE: Date, late UK start time, undercard and how to follow – Edwards and Aspinall defend belts in Manchester as Pimblett returns

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:32:00 +0000

UFC will return to the UK for a late supercard this weekend despite Leon Edwards and Tom Aspinall fighting on home soil in Manchester.

‘Rocky’ Edwards will defend his welterweight title against former foe Belal Muhammad but the start time has baffled fans in England.

Edwards and Aspinall are the highlights on the UFC 304 card

The duo first met in 2021, but the bout lasted just 18 seconds and was ruled a no-contest after Edwards committed an accidental eye poke.

Muhammad has since undergone a winning streak to become the No.2 ranked welterweight and now the long-awaited rematch can take place.

Meanwhile, Aspinall takes on Curtis Blaydes in the co-main event, which is also a rematch and will see him defend his interim heavyweight title.

The pair first’s clash in 2022 at the O2 Arena lasted even shorter than Edwards-Muhammad at 15 seconds after Aspinall suffered a career-threatening knee injury.

The Salford-born star has since battled back to become interim champion, with Liverpool’s Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann also featured on a card stacked with British talent.

UFC 304: Date and start time

The event will take place on Saturday, July 27 at the Co-op Live in Manchester.

Despite being in the UK, the preliminary action won’t get going until 11pm, with the main event expected at around 3am on Sunday morning.

This is because that time is 10pm Eastern time in the USA, which is the traditional PPV time in the States and thus will maximise PPV sales.

Edwards is the champion and will look to defend his belt

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UFC 304: How to follow

The action will be shown on TNT Sports and discovery+ in the UK.

The early prelims will be available on the UFC Fight Pass and TNT Sports 2. More details can be found here.

talkSPORT and talkSPORT.com will be keeping you up to date with all the latest.

You can follow all the build-up on talkSPORT’s MMA YouTube channel.

Aspinall is also defending his belt and will co-headline with Edwards

UFC

UFC 304: Undercard

Subject to change

Main card

CO–MAIN EVENT: Leon Edwards (c) vs Belal Muhammad – for UFC Welterweight Championship
CO-MAIN EVENT: Tom Aspinall vs Curtis Blaydes – for UFC interim Heavyweight Championship
Bobby Green vs. Paddy Pimblett
Christian Leroy Duncan vs. Gregory Rodrigues
Arnold Allen vs Giga Chikadze

Preliminary card

Muhammad Mokaev vs Manel Kape
Nathaniel Wood vs Daniel Pineda
Molly McCann vs Bruna Brasil
Caolan Loughran vs Jake Hadley
Mick Parkin vs Lukasz Brzeski
Oban Elliott vs Preston Parsons
Sam Patterson vs Kieffer Crosbie
Shauna Bannon vs Ravena Oliveira
Modestas Bukauskas vs Marcin Prachino

Pimblett is raring to go in front of what should be a supportive crowd

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UFC 304: What has been said?

Edwards is aiming to win this bout, defend his title and then move up to middleweight.

Speaking exclusively to talkSPORT, he said: “I want to move up and challenge for a middleweight belt as well so whatever comes first.

“I feel like I’ve got the size [for the middleweight division] and the skill for it so why not chase greatness.”

Aspinall’s first title run was ended by a knee injury

getty

Meanwhile, Aspinall is eyeing a bout against Alex Pereira.

Speaking exclusively to talkSPORT, he said: “As an elite-level fighter myself, you can’t help but be impressed with what Alex Pereira has done over the last couple of years.

“This time a few years ago nobody knew who he was and now he is one of the biggest stars in MMA, one of the best fighters in UFC history, and I really respect what he has done.

“Does that mean I don’t want to fight him? No, I absolutely want to fight him.

“I’m sure there will be a time and place for it. I’m not jumping ahead of things right now.

“I’m fighting Curtis Blaydes now and if that’s what the UFC wants to do one day then we will absolutely do it.”

Edwards will finally settle his feud with Muhammad this summer

Getty

However, with Pimblett’s UFC contract up, this could be the last time we see him competing in MMA’s biggest brand.

Speaking about it recently, he said: “This is the last fight on my contract.

“I haven’t got a clue [about contract negotiations with the UFC], my manager sorts all of that. I leave all of that to him, I don’t think [there’s been a renewal proposal].

“I wouldn’t want to go to a different organisation, lad. The UFC is the cream of the crop.

“You never know, though. Some of these stupid YouTubers that are boxing could end up offering me millions to fight one of them. So we’ll see what happens.”

Justin Rose’s caddie has one wish about Xander Schauffele to make him feel better after missing The Open prize

Jake Lambourne — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:15:36 +0000

Xander Schauffele winning The Open would hurt less if he was ‘a bit of a w*****’.

That’s the view of Justin Rose’s caddie Mark Fulcher after the American pipped the English golfer at Royal Troon by two strokes.

Rose’s caddie Fulcher has had nothing but good words to say on Open champion Schauffele

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Rose has high hopes of filling his empty space in his trophy cabinet with the Claret Jug, but it was a second runners-up finish at The Open for the 2013 US Open champion.

As for Schauffele, he picked up his second Major – both of which have come in 2024 – becoming the first player to win two in a year since Brooks Koepka in 2018.

And he has also become the first player to win the PGA Championship and The Open in the same season since Rory McIlroy in 2014.

His success in Scotland had led to Fulcher praising the California native in X-rated fashion.

Commenting on the 30-year-old, he said: “He’s clearly one of the best golfers of his generation.

“It’s taken a little bit of time for him to cross that finish line.

“He’s actually quite nice, too. You’d almost like him to be a bit of a w*****.

“But he really couldn’t be nicer. He’s a lovely fellow. It’s just nice to know that he’s top class.”

American star Schauffele has won two Major titles in 2024

Getty

Rose missed out the Claret Jug by two strokes at Royal Troon

Getty

And Rose was also quick to pay his respect to Schauffele as sent his colleague a classy message following his Open heartbreak.

He remarked: “A guy at the top of his game, a guy that has all the attributes that make him a great player and a great champion.

“He’s obviously now learning that the winning is easy. He has a lot of horsepower, do you know what I mean?

“In the sense of he’s good with a wedge, he’s great with a putter, he hits the ball a long way, obviously his iron play is strong.

“So he’s got a lot of weapons out there. I think probably one of his most unappreciated ones is his mentality. He’s such a calm guy out there.

“I don’t know what he’s feeling, but he certainly makes it look very easy.

“He plays with a freedom, which kind of tells you as a competitor that he’s probably not feeling a ton of the bad stuff.

“He’s got a lot of runway ahead and a lot of exciting stuff ahead, I’m sure.”

talkSPORT betting tips – Best football bets and expert advice for Monday 22 July

Bruce Archer — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:56:39 +0000

Monday is a fairly quiet day in the world of football but there are still a few games to consider, and some top-flight action from across Scandinavia comes into focus for our latest batch of tips.

Get £30 in free bets with talkSPORT BET

Bet of the Day

GAIS to win at 13/10

GAIS and AIK are separated by just two points in Sweden’s Allsvenskan and home advantage could be key when these two sides meet on Monday.

Both go into the game in poor form as GAIS are winless in three and AIK have lost five of their last seven, but the hosts have been far better at their Gamla Ullevi base in Gothenburg

GAIS sat seventh in the standings going into this round of games but they have the fifth-best home record in the division, with five wins and just one defeat after seven games in front of their own fans.

AIK have picked up a paltry five points from their seven away games so far and only relegation contenders Vasteras have a worse road record. The Stockholm club claimed a first win on their travels at Halmstad last time out, but GAIS have been close to perfect at home aside from defeat to Brommapojkarna in their first game of the season at this venue and they should be able to claim the spoils.

Longshot of the day

FC Copenhagen to win 4-0 at 18/1

FC Copenhagen begin the new season with a trip to Lyngby on Monday and they will be looking to hit the ground running after narrowly missing out on the Danish title last season.

Byens Hold won 4-0 when these sides last met in March with a thoroughly dominant display and they have won by two or more goals in three of the last four meetings.

An early strike could set the tone here if Copenhagen are able to make a fast start and the 18/1 on a 4-0 away win, a general ‘easing off’ point when teams are in a commanding position, has a chance.

Special of the day

Landskrona to win and both teams to score at 10/3

Landskrona lead the way in Sweden’s Superettan as they head to relegation contenders Varberg on Monday.

The visitors are on a five-game winning streak and they should have far too much for their hosts, who have lost seven and won just four of their 14 games, but a clean sheet may be beyond Landskrona.

The Swedish second-tier pacesetters have conceded six goals across their last two games despite winning both of them and they’ve managed only two shutouts in six attempts on their travels.

Varberg have scored 12 goals in seven home games and have drawn a blank at this venue in only one of their last eight games across all competitions, so the Bet Boost price on an away win with goals at both ends appeals.

Odds correct at time of publish and subject to change*

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Joe Joyce vs Derek Chisora LIVE: Date, start time, undercard, TV channel and how to follow as Brit heavyweights battle in London

Jack Johnson — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:42:00 +0000

Joe Joyce will take on Derek Chisora in London this weekend as he aims to continue rebuilding his career.

‘The Juggernaut’ was comfortably beaten twice by Zhilei Zhang last year, losing his unbeaten professional record and his status as WBO mandatory.

Joyce beat Ali in his last fight and will want to build momentum again

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However, Joyce bounced back with a win against Kash Ali last time out and he will be hoping to build some momentum with another victory.

He takes on 40-year-old Chisora who comes into this fight off the back of a points win against Gerald Washington in August.

A third defeat for Joyce would completely end his world title dreams, while a 14th career loss for Del Boy will increase calls for him to retire.

Joyce vs Chisora: How to follow

This 12-round heavyweight fight will take place on Saturday, July 27.

It will be held at The O2 Arena in London.

The undercard will get going from 5pm while the main event can be expected to take place at around 10:30pm.

The action will be broadcast live on TNT Sports in the UK. Fans can sign up to TNT Sports and discovery+ here.

talkSPORT and talkSPORT.com will also keep you up to date with all the latest.

Chisora will fight for the 10th time at the O2 Arena this July

Mark Robinson/Matchroom

Joyce vs Chisora: Undercard

Subject to change

MAIN EVENT: Joe Joyce vs Derek Chisora
Moses Itauma vs Mariusz Wach – for WBO Inter-Continental heavyweight title
Dennis McCann vs Ionut Baluta
Ryan Garner vs Archie Sharp – for WBC International super-featherweight title
Raven Chapman vs Yohana Sarabia – for WBC International featherweight title
Aadam Hamed vs. Georgi Velichkov
Brandun Lee vs. TBA
Sean Noakes vs Inder Bassi
Royston Barney-Smith vs Brian Barajas
Umar Khan vs. Kaddour Hmiani
Jermaine Dhliwayo vs Engel Gomez

Joyce vs Chisora: What has been said?

Providing he beats ‘Del Boy’, Joyce has his sights set on world titles.

“I’ve progressed really quickly through the ranks and had very exciting fights,” he told Queensberry’s Dev Sahni, “I got there with the WBO ‘interim’ but the belts were tied up.

“The full title – that’s what I’m going for. But also I want to be in big fights that have a lot of excitement around them.”

“Joe is not going to win,” Chisora said at a news conference.

“He can train as much as he wants, but when it comes to the real grind of it, I’m more vicious than him.

“I fear no man. There’s no feeling each other out in the first round – I’m going in.”

Joyce still needs to revive his career

Getty

Joyce’s promoter Frank Warren added: “This is a proper old-school heavyweight fight that seems to have been a long time in the making.

“I remember it being talked about strongly even before we teamed up with Joe and it has always struck me as a natural and obvious fight to make.

“Two top London heavies fighting it out for a place back at the top table promises to deliver a cracking scrap.

“The winner is right back in business, with no real place to go for the loser.”

PGA Tour 2024 tournament schedule: Dates, venues, winners, prize money and more ahead of FedEx play-offs

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:41:00 +0000

The 2024 PGA Tour season has been another thriller as golf’s best compete for FedEx Cup glory.

As another campaign gets set for a busy summer, here’s a full list of every upcoming tournament, winner and more.

McIlroy will be eyeing a huge year in 2024 as he looks to end his major drought

Getty

PGA Tour 2024: Schedule

3M Open

Jul 25 / Jul 28 – TPC Twin Cities, Minnesota – $8.3m prize pot

Olympic Men’s Golf Competition

Aug 1 / Aug 4 – Le Golf National, Paris

Wyndham Championship

Aug 8 / Aug 11 – Sedgefield Country Club, North Carolina – $7.9m prize pot

FedEx St Jude Invitational

Aug 15 / Aug 18 – TPC Southwind, Tennessee – $20m prize pot- FedEx play-off event

BMW Championship

Aug 22 / Aug 25 – Castle Pines Golf Club, Colorado – $20m prize pot – FedEx play-off event

Tour Championship

Aug 29 / Sep 1 – East Lake, Georgia – FedEx play-off final

PGA Tour 2024: Results

The Open

Jul 18 / Jul 21: Winner – Xander Schauffele

Barracuda Championship

Jul 18 / Jul 21: Winner – Nick Dunlap

Genesis Scottish Open

Jul 11 / Jul 14: Winner – Robert MacIntyre

Isco Championship

Jul 11 / Jul 14: Winner – Harry Hall

John Deere Classic

Jul 4 / Jul 7: Winner – Davis Thompson

Rocket Mortgage Classic

Jun 27 / Jun 30: Winner – Cameron Davis

Travelers Championship

Jun 20 / Jun 23: Winner – Scottie Scheffler

US Open

Jun 13 / Jun 16: Winner – Bryson DeChambeau

Memorial Tournament

Jun 6 / Jun 9: Winner – Scottie Scheffler

RBC Canadian Open

May 29 / Jun 2: Winner – Robert MacIntyre

Charles Schwab Challenge

May 23 / May 26: Winner – Davis Riley

PGA Championship

May 16 / May 19: Winner – Xander Schauffele

Wells Fargo Championship

May 9 / May 12: Winner – Rory McIlroy

Myrtle Beach Classic

May 9/ May 12: Winner – Chris Gotterup

CJ Cup Byron Nelson

May 2 / May 5: Winner – Taylor Pendrith

Zurich Classic

Apr 25 / Apr 28: Winner – Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry

Corales Puntacana Championship

Apr 18 / Apr 21: Winner – Billy Horschel

RBC Heritage

Apr 18 / Apr 21: Winner – Scottie Scheffler

The Masters

Apr 11 / Apr 14: Winner – Scottie Scheffler

Valero Texas Open

Apr 4 / Apr 7: Winner – Akshay Bhatia

Texas Children’s Houston Open

Mar 28 / Mar 31: Winner – Stephan Jager

Valspar Championship

Mar 21 / Mar 24: Winner – Peter Malnati

The Players

Mar 14 / Mar 17: Winner – Scottie Scheffler

Arnold Palmer Invitational

Mar 7 / Mar 10: Winner – Scottie Scheffler

Puerto Rico Open

Mar 7 / Mar 10: Winner – Brice Garnett

Cognizant Classic

Feb 29 / Mar 3: Winner – Austin Eckroat

Mexico Open at Vidanta

Feb 22 / Feb 25: Winner – Jake Knapp

The Genesis Invitational

Feb 15 / 18: Winner – Hideki Matsuyama

WM Phoenix Open

Feb 8 / Feb 11: Winner – Nick Taylor

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Feb 1 / Feb 4: Winner – Wyndham Clark

Farmers Insurance Open

Jan 24 / Jan 27: Winner – Matthieu Pavon

The American Express

Jan 18 / Jan 21: Winner – Nick Dunlap (a)

Sony Open in Hawaii

Jan 11 / Jan 14: Winner – Grayson Murray

The Sentry Tournament of Champions

Jan 7 / Jan 10: Winner – Chris Kirk

RSM Classic

Nov 19 / Nov 22: Winner – Ludvig Aberg

Butterfield Bermuda Championship

Nov 12 / Nov 15: Winner – Camilo Villegas

World Wide Technology Championship

Nov 5 / Nov 8: Winner – Erik van Rooyen

Zozo Championship

Oct 22 / Oct 25: Winner – Collin Morikawa

Shriners Children’s Open

Oct 15 / Oct 8: Winner – Tom Kim

Sanderson Farms Championship

Oct 5 / Oct 8: Winner – Luke List

Fortinet Championship

Sep 14 / Sep 17: Winner – Sahith Theegala

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Why is Olympic surfing being held in Tahiti? Water sport breaks record for whopping 9,760-mile distance from Paris

Jack Johnson — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:25:00 +0000

Surfing returns for its second year at the Olympics this summer but the Paris 2024 event is set to break a long-standing record.

The event will take place in Tahiti, an island in French Polynesia that is a whopping 9,760 miles away from the country’s capital.

The athlete entrance is a sight to behold in the surf Olympic Village in Teahupo

AFP

That distance means history has been made, with surfing becoming the farthest Olympic medal competition held outside a host city since 1956.

But why is it being held on the other side of the world? talkSPORT.com has taken a look…

Why is Olympic surfing being held in Tahiti?

The surfing event is being held in Tahiti to ‘align with Paris 2024’s ambition to spread the Games across France’.

Tahiti is in French Polynesia which is an island in the Pacific Ocean possessed by France.

The official Olympics website explains the decision by saying: “It offers an opportunity to engage French overseas territories and their communities in the Olympic Games – for the first time in history – while showcasing France’s rich and diverse heritage.”

It has been chosen to host the event over beach options in mainland France, such as Brittany or Biarritz on France’s Atlantic coast.

Athletes will compete in Tahiti’s Teahupo’o wave in the South Pacific.

The village of Teahupo’o has hosted world surfing competitions for decades and surfers will all know of the legendary location already due to its history with the sport.

The island of Tahiti has been chosen as the surfing site

AFP

Surfing at the Paris Olympics will begin on Saturday, July 27 and the medals are expected to be handed out on Wednesday, July 31.

However, there are some reserve days in place up to August 5 if conditions aren’t safe.

Due to the distance, it also means there is a huge time difference between Tahiti and France.

Tahiti is 10 hours behind Paris, so events will be broadcast in the evening in Europe while they are held in the morning locally.

The French Polynesian waves were picked over options in mainland France

AFP

You can keep track of all the surfing action from Teahupo’o live on talkSPORT this summer.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

Best casino games in the UK for July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:20:00 +0000

If you are struggling to find the best online casino games to play in the UK, then you are in the right place.

In this comprehensive guide to casino games, I explore the benefits of playing different types of games, exploring their house edge, strategies, and winning potential.

I also highlight the best casinos to use to play each game for real money, highlighting my personal experiences with the casinos. Keep reading to find out about the best casino games at top UK online casinos.

Top sites for casino games

Types of casino games

If you visit any top online casino lobby, you will find the games are split into various categories. While this may vary slightly between different casinos, the following are the most common categorisations you will encounter:

Card games – Card games include any game involving cards, such as poker, blackjack, or baccarat. Some casinos, however, have separate sections for poker.
Table games – A table game is a wider term for any game played at a casino table. This can also cover the aforementioned card games. Roulette is the game most likely to dominate this section.
Dice games – Dice games, you guessed it, are games that involve dice. Dice games are not as popular as they once were, with many casinos only offering craps. In many instances, this is thrown into the table games section.
Slots – Slots are the beating heart of most casino lobbies. At all of the casinos mentioned in this guide, you will hundreds, if not thousands, of online slots to sink your teeth into. These can also be broken down into their categories, with popular options including progressive slots, jackpots, 3D slots, and Megaways, to name a few.
Crash games – Crash games have become a personal favourite of mine in recent years, and they are definitely having a moment in the iGaming world. Popular examples of this include Spribe’s Aviator. In crash games, players must attempt to time a cash out before the game ends.

How did I determine what is the best casino game?

Determining the best casino games to play is an extremely difficult task. Removing personal preference, I have reviewed each game on two main factors: the house edge range and your ability to impact the house edge.

As you will see throughout this guide, there are some games where optimal strategy use can impact the house edge, whereas, in others, you can not change it all. I have applied the following score to games when assessing the house edge:

Rating 1 (Low): Games where optimal strategy has a minimal impact on reducing the house edge, and players have limited control over their outcomes.
Rating 2 (Below Average): Games where optimal strategy can slightly reduce the house edge, but luck still plays a significant role.
Rating 3 (Average): Games where optimal strategy can moderately reduce the house edge, and player decisions have a meaningful impact on the outcome.
Rating 4 (Above Average): Games where optimal strategy can significantly reduce the house edge, and skilled players have a good chance of winning.
Rating 5 (High): Games where optimal strategy can substantially reduce the house edge, and skilled players have a strong advantage.

In the following table, I break down my rating for each game’s ability to impact the house edge and its range.

Casino game	House edge impact	House edge range
Blackjack	5	0.5% to 2%
Video poker	4	0.5% to 5%
Baccarat	3	1.06% to 1.24%
Craps	3	1.36% to 1.41%
Poker	4	2.5% to 20%
Roulette	2	around 2.70%
Slot machines	1	3% to 15%
Keno	1	25% or more
Crash games	1	Typically relatively high
Scratch cards	1	Typically relatively high

#1 Blackjack

Rating for the ability to impact the house edge: 5
Lowest house edge: 0.2%
Best casino for Blackjack: bet365

Blackjack takes the top spot on my list, and I recommend signing up and playing blackjack at any of the casinos listed above. Firstly, it is one of the few games where players can have a positive impact on the house edge. Of course, there is never any way you can guarantee a win, but utilising the correct tactics can help you minimise your losses and make the game more enjoyable.

I have used basic blackjack strategy successfully throughout my career. Basic blackjack strategy is, essentially, a chart that tells you the best moves to make depending on your hand and the dealer’s upcard. For example, you may have 13 in your hand, with the dealer having a 5 card. In this instance, basic blackjack strategy recommends standing. This is based on the dealer’s chances of getting a better hand than you or going bust.

Of course, none of this ever guarantees a win, but it is one of the most assured methods for managing your bankroll and reducing the house edge. It is estimated that the player can reduce the house edge to less than 1% when using blackjack strategy correctly.

Best casino for Blackjack – bet365

Bet365 has always been my casino of choice for blackjack. The operator serves up a strong selection of top-quality games, including a range of originals that all use bet365’s stylish interface and colour scheme. There is also plenty of variety on offer in the live blackjack section, with titles like Grand Blackjack and Quantum Blackjack Plus being among my favourites.

#2 Video poker

Rating for the ability to impact the house edge: 4
Lowest house edge: 0.5%
Best casino for video poker: talkSPORT BET Casino

My next pick for the best casino games to play is video poker. This comes just behind blackjack as it is a little more complex to play and requires a basic understanding of poker. However, it is not as demanding or complicated as traditional poker, as you are playing against the computer, not real opponents.

Like blackjack, there are strategy charts that you can follow to play video poker more optimally. However, unlike blackjack, these charts are a bit more complicated and can take a lot longer to learn. This is due to the number of hand combinations and possible moves you can encounter. I have encountered video poker strategy charts with over 70 lines of strategy, which can be a headache.

Let’s look at a simple hand and see what a strategy chart says. Let’s say you have been dealt 10h, 8d, Js, 10s, 9s. In this example, a strategy chart will tell you to play this as a low-pair by holding the 10s instead of a four-card straight or a three-card straight flush.

Best casino for Video Poker – talkSPORT BET Casino

The talkSPORT BET casino blows the competition away when it comes to video poker. The operator has a section dedicated to Power Poker titles, each of which provides thrilling gameplay and excellent winning potential. You can try your luck on games like Deuces & Joker Poker, All Aces Power Poker, Deuces Wild Poker, and many more.

#3 Baccarat

Rating for the ability to impact the house edge: 3
Lowest house edge: 1.06%
Best casino for baccarat: MrQ

Baccarat comes in just below video poker on my list, and I would highly recommend signing up and playing baccarat at the casinos listed in this guide. I have always enjoyed playing baccarat; however, unlike blackjack and video poker, no optimal strategy can drastically reduce the house edge. I have ranked it so high because of its relatively low house edge, which sits at between 1.06% and 1.24%.

One of the most popular methods to use in baccarat is to always back the dealer’s hand to win. This is because the dealer has a slight advantage over the player, though this also means they pay a slight commission to the house from their wins.

A player bet has a pay out of 1:1 and the odds of winning sit around 49.32%. The banker bet has an increased chance of winning, coming in at 50:68%. I would also avoid backing the tie. This has a payout of 8:1 but it as a low win percentage of 9.53%.

Most other baccarat strategies are simply bankroll management and betting strategies. One of the most popular examples is the Martingale Method. For this, players double their stakes every time they lose. When they do land a win, they will be one unit up. However, this has no advantage over the house edge and is, in my opinion, a deeply flawed approach to playing, as it relies on a win that may never come.

Best casino for Baccarat – MrQ

MrQ is one of my favourite casinos for a number of reasons (no wagering requirements!), and one of them is its selection of baccarat games. While the selection may not be huge, it serves up some of the most engaging baccarat titles around, including Evolution’s Live Baccarat, and Mega Baccarat from Pragmatic Play.

#4 Craps

Rating for the ability to impact the house edge: 3
Lowest house edge: 1.36%
Best casino for craps: 32Red

When it comes to dice games, there are few as popular as craps. You can try your chances at some of the best craps casinos in the UK by signing up with one of the casinos listed.

Splitting craps and baccarat on this list was extremely difficult, with baccarat winning out for its slightly less complex gameplay. Like baccarat, I find craps a hugely enjoyable game, in part due to its low-house edge, which is why I recommend checking it out at some of the craps casinos recommended in this guide.

With craps, the most common strategy deployed by players, especially newcomers, is to play a Pass Line strategy. This is because it is the simplest bet to place, and it presents a player with a 1.41% house edge. Alternatively, you can actually lower the house edge by backing the Don’t Pass bet, which means you are betting against the shooter. In this instance, the house edge is 1.36%.

Best casino for Craps – 32Red

Craps has dipped in popularity in recent years, and finding a casino with a big selection of craps games is difficult. One of my favourite craps games is the Live Craps game that you can try your luck on at 32Red. The game is an immersive experience, recreating the thrills of playing craps in a real casino through your desktop or mobile device.

#5 Poker

Rating for the ability to impact the house edge: 4
Lowest house edge: 2.5%
Best casino for live poker: Bally Casino

Poker is one of the most competitive and exciting card games in the world, and you can put your skills to the test by signing up for one of the top poker casinos in this guide.

Poker is a little bit of an outlier in this list, which is exactly why we have ranked it around the middle. In live poker, you are playing against other players, not the house. As such, there is not a ‘house edge’ in the same way there is in the other games discussed. However, the house may still take a rake from each pot.

So, how can you improve your chances in poker? There are plenty of things you can do to benefit yourself in poker. Firstly, practice makes perfect, with poker definitely being a game you can improve at compared to others, and you can find the type of poker that works best for you.

You should also consider different approaches, with some players preferring to take a more conservative approach to the game while others are more aggressive. Personally, I like to play a tight range of strong hands more aggressively, allowing me to disguise the strength of my actual hands. How conservative you are will also determine whether you’ll play high- or low-stakes poker.

Best casino for Poker – Bally Casino

Bally is one of my go-to poker casinos in the UK. The operator boasts a good selection of poker games and also runs regular poker tournaments.

These are an excellent way of testing your poker skills against other players and winning some top prizes. These tournaments welcome players of all levels and can be an excellent way of learning how to play the game in a competitive but fun environment.

#6 Roulette

Rating for the ability to impact the house edge: 2
Lowest house edge: 2.7% approx.
Best casino for roulette: Betway

Roulette is one of the most popular table games in the world, and you can enjoy it by signing up and playing at the casinos listed in this guide.

As you can see, roulette scores low on my ability to impact the house edge scale. This is because, despite what some people will tell you, there is no way of reducing the house edge when playing roulette. Instead, your only option as a player is to use bankroll and betting strategies like the Martingale or Fibonacci sequences.

With the Martingale strategy, you increase your bet every time you lose until you land a win. You could have a betting sequence that looks like this:

Bet	Result	Profit/Loss
£1 Black	Red – £1	-£1
£2 Red	Black – £2	-£3
£4 Red	Black – £4	-£7
£8 Red	Black -£8	-£15
£16 Even	Even +£32	+£1

In the above sequence, when you win on the fifth bet, you will win £32 and have wagered £31 on the previous five bets. As I have mentioned, I feel this is a deeply flawed formula, as it requires a lot of capital and is also dependent on a win definitely coming, which is never guaranteed. Also, this strategy has zero impact on the house edge.

Best casino for roulette – Betway

Betway is a name many people associate with sports betting, but the online casino also serves up one of the best roulette selections. I found the site to have a healthy mix of online and live casino roulette options, with titles from the likes of Playtech, and Pragmatic Play all on offer. They also have games like 20p roulette for players on a budget and Roulette Mega Moolah for the jackpot hunters among you.

#7 Slots

Rating for the ability to impact the house edge: 1
Lowest house edge: 3%-15%
Best casino for slots: Duelz

I absolutely love online slots and recommend checking out the best slots casino available. However, when it comes to the house edge, they are definitely the worst games to play. The average RTP for a slot game is around 96%, which puts the house edge around 4%. As you can see throughout this guide, that is very high compared to other casino games.

Like roulette, the only strategies you can really deploy when playing slots are bankroll management ones, none of which will have any impact on the house edge or the outcome of the game.

I would recommend looking for slots with high RTPs. You can check the RTP of a game by loading up the paytable. I also recommend approaching progressive jackpot slots with caution. These have high potential returns but tend to have much lower RTPs than standard slots.

Best casino for online slots – Duelz

Duelz is one of the most unique online casinos available in the UK. Not only does it boast a unique theme with fun promotions, but it also has one of the best selections around.

You can find titles from the likes of Pragmatic Play, Play’n Go, Relax Gaming, Hacksaw Gaming, Stakelogic, and just about any other major slot developer you can think of here. Duelz is always my go-to choice when I want to play online slots.

My top five tips for playing casino games online

The following are my top tips to maximise your online casino experience.

Take advantage of bonuses: I highly recommend taking advantage of casino bonuses. All of the casinos I have recommended in this guide come with a healthy selection of bonuses for new and existing customers, all of which can enhance your online casino experience. Of course, you should read through the terms and conditions of each bonus thoroughly before claiming it.
Gamble within your budget: I can not stress enough the importance of responsible gambling and knowing your limits. The casinos in this guide all provide deposit limits and time out options, and I recommend using these to enhance your experience and stay in control of your play.
Practice with free games: Taking demos for a spin is one of my favourite things to do at an online casino. It allows me to test a game out without parting ways with any of my own funds. It can also be an excellent way to test out strategies such as Basic Blackjack Strategy.
Choose low-house edge games: As I’ve highlighted throughout this guide, the best games to play are the ones with the lowest house edge. The first thing I do when I load a game is check the paytable to find out any information I can about the RTP or house edge.
Avoid chasing losses: One of the most dangerous traps a player can fall into is chasing losses. It is important to remember that you are never guaranteed a win when playing casino games online. To make the most of your experience, set a playing limit and walk away when finished. Attempting to get your money back is a foolish move and can lead to irresponsible gambling habits.

Free games vs real money games

If possible, I always recommend checking out free games. Testing a game for free will give you plenty of opportunities to try it out to see if you like it and to use some strategies to find out what works best for you.

For example, I encourage anybody who wants to learn basic blackjack strategies to play them in free-to-play games. This will allow you to master these strategies without risking any of your funds.

Of course, the benefits of playing for real money are apparent: you can win real money. When you play games for free, you will only win and lose virtual currencies, whereas playing for real money provides you with the chance to cash in on some big potential wins.

Online casino games FAQ

1. Can I play casino online for real money?

Yes. All of the online casinos recommended in this guide can be played for real money.

2. Are casino games fair?

Yes. Casino games in the UK are required to use random number generators (RNG) to determine their outcomes. This ensures that neither the operator nor the player can influence the result.

3. What is the easiest casino game?

No casino game is easy. It is important to remember players are never guaranteed a win. However, some games, like blackjack, have a lower house edge than others.

4. Can you participate in casino game tournaments?

Yes. Many top online casinos will run promotional tournaments and events.

5. Are online casino games safe to play?

Yes. All of the casino games recommended in this guide can be played safely online. Of course, players should adhere to responsible gambling practices to ensure they have the safest and most enjoyable experience.

6. What are the worst casino games?

If you find yourself in a situation where you are going to play any of the following games, read through this section before you do:

Airport slot machines: While airport slot machines don’t necessarily offer a worse house edge than their online counterparts, airports are just not a good place to play. The simple reason for this is that you are likely to just blow money playing on them. I have found myself leaving a country before and just throwing money into an airport slot machine aimlessly. This is never a good idea and almost always leads to losses.
Progressive slots: Progressive slots aren’t bad, but they often present you with a considerably lower RTP than a standard slot and are not great for house edge. Of course, these games have the potential for huge wins, but the chances are slim.
6/5 Blackjack: 6/5 Blackjack has odds of 1.2:1. While this may seem tiny, it is huge. In fact, it can increase the house edge by up to 400%. In short, avoid 6/5 blackjack at all costs.
American roulette: American roulette uses two zeroes, compared to the one found in the European variant. This might not seem significant, but it increases the house edge to 5.26%, considerably higher than in European roulette.

7. Which casino games are the best for beginners?

Blackjack, roulette, and slots are some of the most accessible casino games for beginners. This is because they have simple gameplay and can be enjoyed with little to no practice.

8. What is the house edge for casino games?

The house edge for casino games depends on the game you are playing. In some games, the house edge is significantly higher than others. In slot games, the equivalent of the house edge is the return to player (RTP). Like house edge, this is a percentage.

However, the RTP displays the amount a player is likely to see returned to them over a period of time, as opposed to the advantage that the house has.

Can you earn money playing the best casino games?

Yes. You can win money when playing the online casino games in this article. However, I can not stress enough that you should never rely on them as a way to earn money. As I have mentioned, you are never guaranteed to win and, as such, should always practise responsible gambling.

talkSPORT casino game reviews

If you need more information, you can find reviews for the most famous casino games my colleagues and I tested:

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Best betting sites UK | Top betting site offers for July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:15:00 +0000

Sports bettors in the UK are spoiled for choice among the best betting sites: If you want in-depth football betting markets, there is a bookmaker for you; if you want to bet on esports or TV events, there is another.

My favourite UK betting offer

Whatever you need, there is a UK betting site out there. However, knowing how to find the best betting site is a different beast altogether: That’s why you need my insight.

I have trawled the online betting sphere to make this detailed guide highlighting the best bookies in the UK, exploring their sports markets, welcome bonuses, odds value, and much more.

By the end, you’ll know which sportsbook is the most trustworthy, which one is reliable with payments, which has the lowest wager requirements and, of course, which one is worth your account registration.

Best betting sites for UK punters 2024

How I rate UK betting sites

I include a lot of factors in my betting site analysis. You can always return to this handy guide if you need a refresher, since I’ll keep the selection on offer updated, but here are the most impactful aspects of a betting site:

Betting markets

When looking through the best UK betting sites, one of the first things I check is how many betting markets are at my disposal. Most top UK bookmakers will cover the main sports and leagues, but they won’t all offer the same depth. That’s why I make sure to go through the markets of individual sports to find if they suit my needs.

Welcome offer and free bets

Bookmakers are always looking for ways to attract new customers, and one of the most effective methods is to offer a generous welcome bonus. Of course, there are other things I factor in outside of the size of the bonus – a generous free bet package is easily offset by tricky terms and conditions and wagering requirements.

If a bonus has a short expiry date, a ridiculously high initial bet stake, too many payment exclusions, or overly complicated eligibility requirements, I’ll tend to avoid signing up.

Ongoing promotions

It’s not just new customers that need nice treatment. I also look for betting sites that have ongoing promotions for their existing customers as well. I’ll be further impressed if a bookie’s loyalty programs and VIP schemes are on par with its newcomer generosity.

For example, acca insurance or an odds boost are the type of promotion I tend to expect from all established bookmakers now, but an occasional promo code and exclusive specials for the punter who remains will set a sportsbook apart even further.

Best odds

Of course, I’ll check out the odds at each bookmaker and let my readers know the best ones after a thorough comparison. If the odds come with price boosts and other odds-related bonuses, even better!

Payment methods

There is no point in me recommending a bookmaker if you can’t get your money in and out easily. All the operators I recommend have an array of banking methods and offer flexible deposit and withdrawal limits. I’ll also be sure to let you know if I had to wait an age to cash out my winnings after bet settlement, or if the payout speed was negligible.

Security and licensing

Security is paramount to me personally, and the whole team at talkSPORT. I would never recommend an operator that isn’t fully licensed and regulated by the UKGC. What’s more, most of the bookies you’ll find on this page are continuously audited by third parties for fairness and security.

Responsible gambling

The bookmakers I’ve reviewed here all offer responsible gambling support for players. This includes access to useful resources, as well as tools like self-exclusion and time limits. Of course, you can look into the available resources yourself on sites like GamCare and GambleAware.org.

Full reviews of the best UK betting sites

Narrowing the list of the best UK betting sites down to 11 was an extremely difficult task. Still, I’ve done my best to create a set that can create the most value for you as the reader and future bettor. The following are detailed reviews of each of the bookmakers I chose as the best that the UK market has to offer.

1. talkSPORT BET

Founding date: 2022
No. of sports to bet on: 30
Casino: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 chat, request a call

talkSPORT BET burst onto the betting scene in 2022 and has quickly established itself as a market leader. It is part of a partnership between talkSPORT and BetVictor, leveraging the latter’s sports betting platform and combining it with talkSPORT’s brand and reputation. I can say this is a winning combination, as it allows talkSPORT BET to offer an impressive 30+ sports to bet on and a huge selection of markets for each.

If user experience is as important to you as it is to me, talkSPORT BET’s clean, modern design will be a big selling point. The site is very well-designed and was extremely easy to navigate.

On signup, it served me a generous welcome bonus, allowing me to claim £30 when I bet £10. When I checked the rest of the bonus section, I found excellent promotions for existing customers, as well. I have to say, however, that the casino selection is not quite as strong compared to some bookmakers, but if you only want top-quality sports betting, talkSPORT BET has you covered.

2. PlanetSport Bet

Founding date: 2021
No. of sports to bet on: 27
Casino: Yes
Customer support: FAQ, email

PlanetSport Bet is one of the smaller bookmakers on this list, but I rated it highly despite its modest first impression. For example, if you are a fan of horse racing, then you will find a plethora of excellent markets and competitive odds at PlanetSport Bet. I was pleased to see the operator puts a real emphasis on trending sports and is one of the best in the UK in this regard.

However, I had trouble getting in touch with customer support through multiple avenues, as there was no live chat option available. I also wasn’t thrilled about the lack of a generous welcome offer, as the only thing available to new players was to claim a £10 free bet when they bet £10.

3. Spreadex

Founding date: 2006
No. of sports to bet on: 25
Casino: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 chat, live chat, phone support

Spreadex is one of the oldest bookmakers in the UK; in my opinion, it has endured because it knows how to deliver an excellent experience. If you want an alternative to standard betting, then the spread betting options at Spreadex will satisfy that need. Of course, I could still use standard betting options, with excellent odds for both.

It also offers one of the most comprehensive customer support systems I’ve seen, with live chat, phone, and email all provided. One area where it does fall short is with its promotions for existing customers. However, as a new customer, I could claim £40 when I bet £10.

4. BoyleSports

Founding date: 1982
No. of sports to bet on: 42
Casino: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email

BoyleSports opened its physical doors way back in 1982 and has since moved onto the virtual plane and become a popular choice among UK bettors.

When I first signed up, I was happy to see it offers sports betting and online casino options, with both being equally strong. I could claim £20 when I deposited £10, which I didn’t think was a particularly grandiose welcome, but there is always a rewards programme for existing players. Unfortunately, other promotions for existing players are limited. On the plus side, the site offers 24/7 live support through live chat and email, which I’ve confirmed.

As far as presentation goes, the site felt a little basic to me. That said, the navigation was easy, and I had no problems finding what I was looking for, with the most important sports events and betting opportunities displayed prominently on the betting homepage.

5. BetVictor

Founding date: 1946
No. of sports to bet on: 34
Casino: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 chat, email

BetVictor is one of the UK’s best bookies with a pedigree. When I want a big range of markets to bet on, I know the sports selection here is strong, with 34 sports covering 1,500+ markets. The site’s Premier League selection is one of its biggest selling points, alongside its brilliant offers, such as the BetVictor Predictor feature for football games, which I’ve made use of more than once.

If you enjoy betting live and on your mobile, then BetVictor has you covered in both respects, as it has some of the most excellent live-betting options I’ve seen and a very respectable mobile app.

I’ve also had no problems reaching support agents, and can confirm the customer service at BetVictor is also excellent. My biggest issue with the site was that payment methods are limited compared to other operators, but this is truly a blip when a site excels so much elsewhere.

6. CopyBet

Founding date: 2016
No. of sports to bet on: 28
Casino: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email

CopyBet is one of the most unique UK betting sites I’ve had the pleasure of exploring. The operator provided me the chance to copy the sports bets of popular tipsters, putting a social spin on the traditional betting experience. I got a pretty warm welcome, too, getting £50 in free bets for various sports when I bet my first £10.

I had nothing to complain about on the usability front – the website is nicely designed, and the live-betting options are great. On the other hand, while there are plenty of football-based bonuses, the site is slightly limited elsewhere. There is no casino section, either, which may frustrate some bettors. Overall, though, CopyBet stands out to me as an interesting option due to its unique betting features and stylish design.

7. Luckster Sport

Founding date: 2022
No. of sports to bet on: 30
Casino: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email, phone

Luckster Sport is a relatively new sports betting site, having launched in 2022. I didn’t let this fool me, though: The operator turned out to pack a punch, offering over 30 sports, with particularly niche and detailed football betting options.

In my opinion, Luckster made a smart choice by electing to keep things simple, and I found the sign-up process to be very streamlined; my enthusiasm was dampened somewhat by the fact that the welcome bonus I received was worth only £10 when I bet £10. While its mobile site was excellent, Luckster also disappointed me by not investing in a mobile app.

8. 10bet

Founding date: 2003
No. of sports to bet on: 31
Casino: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email, phone

10bet is one of the most well-respected online bookmakers in the UK. The site, which was founded in 2003, attracts millions of sports bettors, and it was easy for me to understand why. For example, if you, like me, want a massive selection of sports to bet on, you will find 31 different options at 10bet, a number that dwarfs most of its competitors. It also felt like I bookie I could stick with, since it offers generous bonuses for existing customers, as well as a £50 bonus for new customers.

10bet is also renowned for its betting features, such as the 100% boost on your winning acca payout, and its event-specific promos, some of which I made use of during my time on the site. On top of all this, it also boasts an impressive casino section.

9. Betway

Founding date: 2006
No. of sports to bet on: 30
Casino: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 chat, email

Betway is one of the most recognised gambling brands in the world, and I had my expectations set very high when I tested it. Not for nothing, the popular brand has been making waves among British bettors for almost 20 years now. I’m happy to report the site has 30 sports for players to bet on, though some of the live betting options feel a bit limited compared to other bookies available on the UK market.

Unsurprisingly, a site like Betway knows how to keep customers happy. If you enjoy promotions, then this is the site for you. For starters, as a new player, I could claim up to £30 if my first bet had lost – it hadn’t, but the option was still there. I got some free spins out of it, too, which is always a nice boost. There is also a generous loyalty program, if you stick around, which I will be sure to to do.

Still, I could’ve used a slightly richer live betting offering, as I could find much greener pastures with other top operators.

10. bet365

Founding date: 2000
No. of sports to bet on: 40
Casino: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email, phone

You don’t need me to tell you that bet365 is one of the most well-respected online bookmakers in the UK. The site, which was founded at the start of the millenium, attracts millions of sports bettors, and it’s easy to see why.

I was first greeted with a massive selection of sports to bet on, a grand total of 40, which dwarfs most of its competitors. It also offers generous bonuses for existing customers, after I claimed the £30 bonus for new customers who bet £10.

bet365 is also renowned for its special betting features, such as the 2-goal early acca payout, and its bet builder options, and the latter boosted my winnings quite a bit. Live streaming is also an option here, which is perfect for live betting on a football game, for example. On top of all this, it also boasts an impressive casino section if you ever get bored of betting.

11. Betzone

Founding date: 2020
No. of sports to bet on: 24
Casino: Yes
Customer support: Email

Betzone is nearly half a decade old, which may not seem like much, but I can certainly say it’s an online UK bookmaker on the rise. If you enjoy in-play betting, then Betzone’s live coverage is going to be as hugely attractive to you as it was to me.

I also enjoyed watching the live streams this site offers for plenty of UK and Ireland events, with an emphasis on horse racing. It also offers in-play betting for NFL, football, and more. I was also a big fan of the Betzone casino offering.

Where the site does fall short is its lack of a live-chat section, which means I had to reach out via e-mail, a dated approach if there ever was one. As far as promotions go, I was pleased to find a good selection for existing customers, with special event betting being popular, and there is a welcome bonus that allows customers to claim 50% back as free bets on losing bets up to £60.

Top payment methods and processing times at UK betting sites

There are many popular banking methods available at UK betting sites. Visa/Mastercard debit card payments remain the most popular deposit methods among players. If you want a quicker withdrawal, e-wallets like PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill are often popular choices. Mobile-based methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also becoming increasingly popular.

The withdrawal time for methods will depend on the betting platform, so the following are averages. In some instances, for example, bookies may offer instant withdrawal, regardless of the method. This is something I always look for, but it’s a rare gift.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that players won’t be able to use credit cards to make deposits or withdrawals in the UK as per UKGC guidelines.

Q&A session about betting sites for UK players

The following are some of the most regular questions that readers have about betting at the UK’s top betting sites.

1. Who regulates UK betting sites?

All legitimate UK betting sites, and certainly all sites I recommend, are regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission. The UKGC is one of the most stringent regulators in the industry, ensuring all British casinos are compliant with the industry’s highest standards.

2. Do UK bookmakers follow KYC procedures?

Yes. All UK bookmakers will have extensive Know Your Customer policies. Players will need to have their identity and address verified before they can withdraw cash, and in many cases, before they can even place a bet.

3. Can I use PayPal at UK bookies?

Yes, most UK bookies will allow customers to bet with PayPal. If you want to use PayPal, I recommend checking directly with your chosen bookmaker first if that’s an option, but my experience shows most of them have elected to support it.

4. Which UK betting site offers the best odds?

10bet is my pick as the site with the best odds, no question. This is because the site regularly runs cash boosts and promotions that offer enhanced odds. It also offers one of the most comprehensive sports betting selections, with 40 sports available to bet on.

Following this, I would have to give the runner-up spot to BetUK, which offers some of the best football odds. Finally, Spreadex is an excellent option for both sports betting and exchange odds. Whichever site you choose, you can use our handy bet calculator to see what you can expect from your winnings!

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez poses in River Plate shirt as boyhood club’s fans sing controversial France chant

Jake Lambourne — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:08:21 +0000

Enzo Fernandez has been embroiled in further controversy upon his return to River Plate where fans chanted a discriminatory anti-France song.

The Chelsea midfielder found himself in hot water last week after sharing a video of himself and his Argentina teammates signing the racist chant following the Copa America final triumph.

Fernandez returned to former side River Plate where he donned their home kit

X/ TNTSportsAR

It led to the Blues‘ France contingent unfollowing him on Instagram, with Wesley Fofana slamming the ‘uninhibited racism’ on social media.

Fernandez subsequently apologised over the video, with Chelsea launching an investigation after stating that they condemn ‘all forms of discriminatory behaviour’.

And now the 23-year-old has been serenaded by the vile song upon his return to his boyhood club prior to River Plate’s 2-2 draw with Lanus.

The ex-Benfica man, who came through River’s academy before leaving for Europe in 2022, was treated to a standing ovation.

He came out on the pitch wearing River’s home shirt where he proceeded to wave to the thousands of supporters.

In reply, the fans inside the Estadio Monumental chanted the racist song aimed at France’s black players in unison to show their support for Fernandez.

The vile and disgusting song, which references the African heritage of a number of the Les Bleus squad, translates to: “They play for France, but their parents are from Angola.

“Their mother is from Cameroon, while their father is from Nigeria. But their passport says French.”

Chelsea midfielder Fernandez waved to the River faithful ahead of their draw with Lanus

AFP

The River fans then chanted the racist anti-France song to show their support for Fernandez

AFP

RECONOCIMIENTO Y OVACIÓN PARA ENZO FERNÁNDEZ

El volante Campeón de América recibió un homenaje de River en el Monumental #LPFxTNTSports pic.twitter.com/ryz1hTUWob
— TNT Sports Argentina (@TNTSportsAR) July 21, 2024

As the controversy of the chant sung by Enzo Fernandez and other Argentina players against French players continues, River Plate (Enzo’s boyhood club) fans are now singing it at their home ground El Monumental during their game against Lanus. pic.twitter.com/H1zK0PMd97
— Roberto Rojas (@RobertoRojas97) July 21, 2024

South American football expert Tim Vickery slammed the chant during his appearance on the talkSPORT Breakfast Show on Monday.

He said: “This is a stain glory, they’ve [Argentina] just won two Copa Americas in a row and the World Cup in the middle of it, and what are we all talking about all over the world?

“How they’ve poured shame on themselves with this song. Now I don’t believe that Argentina is an especially racist country, but there are problems here.

“And these problems come out especially in football. I do Brazilian TV every week, and every week we speak about the same thing, when Brazilian sides meet Argentine sides in the international cup competitions.

“Every week there are monkey gestures and monkey noises coming from the Argentina fans.

“If you talk to the people that do it, they say, ‘No, no no, we’re not racist, this is just football, this is just part of the game, this is anything that you can do to goad or wind up your opponent is fair game.'”

He added: “What you really want to see from the [Argentina] players is for them to step up and to explain to their own people that, ‘This ain’t on anymore. We’ve got to move on, we’ve got to ditch this.’

“There’s so many great things about Argentine football culture, so many of the songs are absolutely fantastic.

“When you go to a game in Argentina, often you come out remembering the songs more than the game, but you don’t want to remember this song.

“This is part of history, bin it, and it’s up to the players to step up.”

Fernandez’s live footage last week saw a derogatory chant sung by Argentine players

It remains to be seen whether Fernandez will face any punishment regarding his involvement in the vile chant being broadcast live.

And while Chelsea teammate Nicolas Jackson has appeared to throw his support behind him, Darren Bent believes his relationship with his French colleagues has been damaged beyond repair.

Best football betting sites for UK punters in July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:05:00 +0000

There are plenty of football betting sites in the UK, but there’s a lack of parity in the market.

I’ve been in the betting business since 2010, so I know what to look for when assessing sportsbooks.

This guide contains everything I know about the industry and the best football sites for 2024. So, if you want to score with each UK football betting site you use, I suggest looking at my top players.

Top football betting offer for Euro 2024

In the list below, I’ve rounded up the best UK sites for football betting. These sites understand the issue gamblers face and work towards making the betting experience more enjoyable.

Where I place my football bets

A closer look at my top football bookmakers

Those are my top 10 UK football betting sites, but why have I chosen them? Well, in the interests of full disclosure, here’s why I believe they’re ideal betting sites for football fans:

1. Betfred – Bet £10 get £50 in free bets (Code: SUMMER50)

Year established: 1967
No. of football markets: 33+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £50 in Free Bets (Use code SUMMER50)
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Neteller, Skrill, PayPal, paysafecard
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email (support@betfred.com), phone (0800 028 7747)

Betfred has been around for decades, so it’s hardly surprising that it performs well in all areas. Football has been a particular penchant of founder Fred Done for years, and it shows.

The interface isn’t as flashy or rich with features as some sports betting websites, but the classic layout does make it easy to use. One aspect of the design I really like is the way competitions are segmented into regional tabs (UK, Europe, Rest of the World, International).

Betfred’s #PickYourPunt bet builder markets and bonus boosts are great, but the best markets, based on my analysis, are found in the coupons lobby. Coupons, such as Goals Galore, give you up to 300/1 odds for making 12 correct picks.

Pros
Plenty of innovative promotions
300/1 odds for certain football coupons
Trustworthy bookmaker since 1967
Build your own bets

Cons
Website is basic
Could cover more football markets

Bet at Betfred

2. bet365 – Bet £10 get £30 in free bets (Code: TSPORT)

Year established: 2001
No. of football markets: 60+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Trustly, paysafecard, wire transfer, Click to Pay, Pay by Bank App
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 via live chat, email (support-eng@customerservices365.com), Post (Customer Services, bet365 House, Media Way, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 5SZ)

Bet builder tools became all the rage a few years ago, so today, I don’t count them as a unique feature. Having said that, I still value betting operators that give you extra value for using these tools. That’s why bet365 is sixth on my list of the top football betting sites UK customers can use.

Most football fans know the name bet365 anyway, so I don’t need to remind you that it offers some of the best odds, excellent coverage of all leagues, and safe software. What you might not know is that bonus offers include a 25% payout boost on selected bet builder markets. Add early payouts, 70% acca boosts, enhanced odds, and substitute guarantees into the mix, and bet365 gives you more added value than other sports betting stars.

Pros
Well-respected gambling brand
Huge range of safe payment options
Impressive selection of football bonuses

Cons
The website’s layout could be improved
No phone support

Bet at bet365

3. talkSPORT BET – Bet £10 get £30 in free bets

Year established: 2022
No. of football markets: 30+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Bank Transfer, FastFunds, Apple Pay
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 via live chat, email (support@talksportbet.com), Facebook, Twitter

In my opinion, talkSPORT BET is the Manchester City of added value. By that, I mean this is one of the best football betting sites for bonuses. The welcome offer is ideal for novices as you get 3x the value of your opening bet (£10). From there, it’s all about enhanced odds, acca boosts, and match specials. Something else that caught my eye were the exclusive bonuses for mobile users.

What really sealed the deal, however, was the Footie 4 Play promotion. Available every week and free to enter, this competition requires you to name four correct scores to win up to £500 in cash!

Pros
Best promos, including free prediction competition
Covers national, international and eSports football leagues
Excellent customer support

Cons
Not many e-wallet payment options

Bet at talkSPORT BET

4. Vbet – Bet £10 get £10 in free bets

Year established: 2019
No. of football markets: 52+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £10 in Free Bets
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, MuchBetter, Payz, Trustly
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email (support@vbet.co.uk), phone (0203 582 4005)

Vbet is a relatively new online sportsbook, but it signalled its desire to become a major player in football betting by sponsoring five organisations, including the Argentinian Football Association and AS Monaco.

Covering all the major leagues is great, but it’s not unique. What I like about Vbet is the way its oddsmakers shine a light on football at all levels, including under-23, under-21, and under-19 club and international competitions.

If I’m being critical, I don’t like that you have to make a three-leg acca to get the welcome bonus. I also found a glitch on the homepage. Specifically, the “pre-match” link didn’t work. However, I was able to access the pre-match lobby using another search button.

My favourite feature at Vbet is the acca club. It has four levels (Gold, Premium, Platinum and Deluxe), and the number of selections you make determines the bonus you receive. Bonuses range from prize boosts to insurance covering all picks.

Pros
Invested in football teams and the sport
Unique acca club promotion
Free football picking competitions
Covers football at all levels

Cons
Bonus terms could be better
Withdrawal processing time could be quicker

Bet at Vbet

5. Sky Bet – Bet £10 get £30 in Bonus Bets + £10 Just Eat voucher

Year established: 2001
No. of football markets: 50+
Welcome offer: Bet £10 get £30 in Bonus Bets + £10 Just Eat voucher
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Solo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 via live chat, contact form

I’ve known about Sky Bet since before I could use a bookie, online or in a shop. The company has been at the top of the UK’s sports betting tree since the start of the 21st century, and its ability to move with the times really impresses me.

Sky Bet has a solid football betting service. The daily enhanced specials, like Reveal Your Teams or Requestabet, are my favourite features, but there are plenty more positives. For example, the average Premier League game has over 700 different bets you can make. If you want a world-class performer in all areas, I suggest giving Sky Bet a try.

Pros
Industry veteran with an unmatched reputation for service
Impressive range of betting options and match stats
Requestabet service

Cons
Android app prone to glitches
Interface isn’t the most exciting

Bet at Sky Bet

6. Paddy Power – Bet £10 get £40

Year established: 1998
No. of football markets: 100+
Welcome offer: Bet £10 get £40
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Instant Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, paysafecard, Rapid Transfer
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 via live chat

Paddy Power offers the same high-quality experience as its peers, but it also has a cheeky side that I love. This brand has a reputation for pushing the boundaries and that allows it to offer products and promotions other bookies don’t.

For example, a lot of promotions pay rewards in cash rather than bonus bets. This means they’re free of wagering restrictions. Paddy Power also offers football bets on things you won’t find elsewhere, such as what a manager will be wearing on the touchline and if two players will tussle in the tunnel. It’s this desire to be different that draws me to Paddy Power.

Pros
Unique and quirky betting markets
Promotions that pay rewards in cash
Request a bet service

Cons
Odds aren’t always the best
Customer service needs to improve

Bet at Paddy Power

7. SBK – Bet £10 get £30 in free bets

Year established: 2019
No. of football markets: 53+
Welcome offer: Bet £10 get £30 in free bets
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Solo, Trustly, Bank Transfer, Skrill, Neteller, PayPal
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email (support@getsbk.com)

SBK claims to be “rewriting the sportsbook”. That’s a bold claim, and, if I’m honest, I don’t think it’s completely rewriting the rulebook. That doesn’t mean it’s not a reliable or trustworthy sports betting site with unique features.

I like the focus on less-popular football leagues, such as Japan’s J.League. I also like the fact it’s built for mobile devices. You can access the sportsbook via desktop computers, and I’m not sold on the dark colour scheme. However, the layout is streamlined to the point that it’s easy to find what you’re looking for, regardless of the device you’re using.

The standout feature, in my opinion, is advanced payouts. This feature allows you to get instant payouts on acca bets as individual selections win. Terms and conditions apply, and you can’t get advance payouts for all accas. However, it’s a novel feature that’s great for savvy bettors.

Do I think this means SBK is redefining our perception of what a sportsbook is? Probably not, but it’s good to see SBK trying something that other top-rated sports betting websites aren’t.

Pros
Great focus on international football leagues
Innovative advanced payout feature
Linked to the Smarkets sports betting exchange
Mobile-first interface

Cons
The design might not suit everyone
Odds could be better

Bet at SBK

8. BoyleSports – Bet £10 get £25 in free bets + £10 casino bonus

Year established: 1982
No. of football markets: 43+
Welcome offer: Bet £10 get £25 in free bets + £10 casino bonus
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Neteller, Skrill, PayPal, bank transfer, Boku, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email (contact form), phone (0800 220 066)

BoyleSports is an industry veteran, so you might assume that it leans towards the “old-school” style of sports betting. In some ways, it does. The interface is a bit too busy for my liking, but it has a classic layout with a few modern touches, such as retractable menus.

I don’t mind sportsbooks that have a classic vibe, but BoyleSports is more than a throwback. Football promotions, such as early payouts if your team goes two goals ahead, are a nod to modern tastes.

For me, the main reason BoyleSports is a veteran operator that’s looking towards the future is its payment options. Specifically, you can make Boku deposits, which means payments are charged to your mobile phone bill. Not many sportsbooks offer this option, so, in my opinion, BoyleSports is one of the best online betting sites for mobile users.

Pros
Generous odds for special bets
Covers all markets, from the Premier League to the Korean K League 3
Early payouts for football
Innovative mobile payments

Cons
Too many page elements
Withdrawals could be quicker

Bet at BoyleSports

9. Star Sports – 50% rebate up to £25 + 25 spins if your first bet loses

Year established: 1999
No. of football markets: 50+
Welcome offer: 50% Rebate Up to £25 + 25 Spins if Your First Bet Loses
Payment methods: Bank transfer, cheque, Maestro, Mastercard, Visa
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: phone (01273 936840)

Star Sports was born out of Star Racing, and this focus on horse racing is apparent from the off. Based on my analysis, it’s one of the best online betting sites for horse racing odds, but this is a football guide, so how does Star Sports compare to the competition in this department?

Quite well. The football odds are solid, and there’s a clear commitment to bookmaking as a time-honoured art. What I mean by this is that Star Sports is a no-frills betting site. There are a few touches of creativity, such as dropdown menus, which help keep the betting lobbies as compact as possible.

However, when you use this sportsbook, you don’t get a ton of extra features. That’s why I regard it as one of the top places to bet on football if you want a fuss-free experience.

Pros
Traditional and trustworthy bookmaker
Shop locator creates a nice link between the online and offline world
Competitive odds
Great customer service

Cons
Poor selection of payment options
Main focus is horse racing

Bet at Star Sports

10. BetVictor – 100/1 on England to win the Euros

Year established: 1946
No. of football markets: 30+
Welcome offer: 100/1 on England to Win the Euros
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Trustly, Apple Pay, Neteller, Skrill, paysafecard, bank transfer, FastFunds
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email (help@betvictor.com), SMS (+44 7488 883 406), social media (@BetVictor)

BetVictor has the same condensed three-panel layout as talkSPORT BET. I actually like this design, but it does require the developers to cram a lot of things into smaller spaces. The benefit, of course, is that you can use BetVictor as easily on a desktop device as a mobile.

Event-focused welcome bonuses are great, and the one I got for Euro 2024 was particularly impressive. However, I also noticed that Betfair has a season-long football welcome bonus (bet £10 and get £40 in free football bets).

The daily prize wheel is another nice feature because you get to spin it for free once per day. Bet builders and early cash out are also great, but my favourite feature is lucky dips. Lucky dip bets let you choose a wager that has unknown variables.

For example, a popular lucky dip bet is “Total Goals and Total Cards in a Game”. You know the general premise of the bet, but the total number of goals and cards you need for a win gets chosen at random. This is an exciting way to bet and a chance to unlock lucrative odds up to 400/1.

Pros
Free daily prize wheel promotion
Innovative lucky dips betting feature
Football betting tips on the blog
Tons of football-specific bonuses

Cons
The interface is a bit crowded
Needs to cover more markets

Bet at BetVictor

11. BetMGM – Bet £10 get £40 in free bets

Year established: 2019
No. of football markets: 40+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, bank transfer, PayPal, Apple Pay
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat

What does a US-based betting brand know about football (or soccer, as they’d call it)? Based on my analysis, quite a lot. What struck me most about BetMGM was its software. As well as being secure and reliable, there are subtle touches that make it extremely easy to use.

For example, you get a quick overview of popular bets in the “trending” panel. BetMGM’s developers have also added buttons and switches to the platform. For instance, you can toggle the “live only” and “stream only” buttons to filter the betting lobby.

Something else that makes it a great place to bet on football is promotions. Very few UK sportsbooks have loyalty programs, so I love the fact you can get perks via BetMGM Rewards. The icing on the cake is the Golden Goals picking competition. As well as being free to enter, this competition has a £2 million jackpot up for grabs every week.

Pros
Best sportsbook for software
Generous odds for all sports
£2 million Golden Goals promotion
Offers loyalty rewards

Cons
Only offers live chat support
Could offer more payment options

Bet at BetMGM

12. Betfair – Bet £10 get £40 in free bets

Year established: 2000
No. of football markets: 35+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Apple Pay, paysafecard, Rapid Transfer, bank transfer, MuchBetter
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: FAQ, live chat, email (contact form), phone (0844 871 0000)

Betfair’s design has changed a lot since I started using it back in 2014. Today, the old blue and white colour scheme has been replaced by gold and black. What’s particularly impressive about the updated interface is the way page elements have been stripped back to allow for more white space.

This, in my opinion, makes Betfair easier to use on mobile devices where space is at a premium. In terms of betting, I call Betfair a solid all-rounder. It’s trustworthy and reliable. The pre-made accas are handy, even if some of the picks are questionable (i.e. they’re a bit unlikely to happen).

I also like the #OddsOnThat specials. This feature allows you to tweet your idea to Betfair’s oddsmakers, and if they like it, the bet gets added to the website.

Perhaps the best reason to use Betfair is its commitment to responsible gambling. You can read more about this in my Betfair review, but let’s just say the responsible gambling team are incredibly proactive.

Pros
Long-serving online bookmaker
Linked to the world’s biggest exchange
Standout commitment to responsible gambling
Excellent selection of fast payment options

Cons
Could cover more football competitions
Odds aren’t always the best

Bet at Betfair

13. Ladbrokes – Bet £5 get £20 in free bets

Year established: 1886
No. of football markets: 37+
Welcome offer: Bet £5, Get £20 in Free Bets
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, bank transfer, Apple Pay, PayPal, paysafecard, Skrill, Trustly, instant bank payment, Neteller
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email (contact form), phone (0800 731 6191), DM on social media (@ladbrokes)

Ladbrokes offers my favourite welcome bonus because you only have to wager £5 to get it. Other UK betting sites ask you to bet £10, and while that’s not a huge amount of money, £5 lowers the barrier to entry and makes the bonus more accessible to casual punters.

If I’m being super critical, Ladbrokes isn’t the best-looking betting site you’ll ever see. It’s functional and reliable, but the design hasn’t changed much over the last 20 years, so that’s something the developers could work on.

Aesthetics aside, Ladbrokes is one of the best places for accumulator bets because you can control different variables. Specifically, you can choose to boost your potential payouts or insure specific picks within your acca.

If that’s not enough, you can track your accumulator in real time and edit it, remove losing legs or cash out. This, for me, is fantastic. Accumulators are lucrative but hard to win, so the fact you can control these bets at Ladbrokes is extremely useful.

Pros
Excellent welcome bonus for novices
1-2-Free picking competition with £50 prize
Responsive social media support
Great blog full of football tips and previews

Cons
Website looks dated
Bit too much focus on racing at times

Bet at Ladbrokes

14. 10bet – 100% deposit bonus up to £50 (Use Code SPORT)

Year established: 2003
No. of football markets: 60+
Welcome offer: 100% Deposit Bonus up to £50 (Use Code SPORT)
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay, Neteller, Skrill, Trustly, paysafecard, Fast Bank Transfer
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: Live chat, email (support@10bet.co.uk), phone (0808-175-0550 -UK/+353 1 592 4242 – Ireland)

I’ll sing the praises of any sports betting site that dares to be different, so I have to give 10Bet props for offering a first deposit match bonus. It breaks from the standard “bet X, get Y” promotion, and I like the fact that bonus credits can be used for sports or casino gaming.

Other than a flexible welcome bonus, I often use 10Bet when I’m out of the house. That’s because the light-and-bright platform is easy to navigate, not least because you can save sports using the star icon and filter bet types using dropdown menus.

I also like the way football competitions are grouped by regions, such as Africa, Scandinavia, and Asia. A lot of betting sites list their competitions in a single table, which means you have to do a lot of scrolling. Grouping them by region streamlines the process, which is why it’s one of my go-to mobile gambling sites.

Pros
Interface is extremely easy to navigate
Bet on all football competitions, including friendlies
Unique welcome bonus
Save your favourite bets for quick access

Cons
The odds could be slightly better
Support agents aren’t available 24/7

Bet at 10bet

15. CopyBet – Bet £10 get £50 in bonus bets

Year established: 2016
No. of football markets: 30+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £50 in Bonus Bets
Payment methods: Instant bank transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, G Pay, Skrill, Neteller
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 chatbot, email (info@copybet.com)

For someone so deeply entrenched in the world of football betting as I am, Copybet has been a revelation. The platform’s interface is quick and intuitive, with football listed as the first of the sports markets you can choose from.

However, what truly sets Copybet apart is its unique copying feature, allowing users to mimic the bets of successful punters, providing invaluable insights and increasing chances of success. In the “Tipsters” tab of the football betting interface, you can find the most lucrative candidates to copy from. The site’s dedication to football betting is evident, offering comprehensive coverage of matches worldwide. From Premier League showdowns to obscure leagues, there’s always something to wager on.

Pros
Trusted betting service
Join syndicates or create your own
Leaderboards and free bet promotions

Cons
Doesn’t offer fixed odds
Only accepts debit card payments

Bet at Copybet

16. BetUK – Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets

Year established: 2018
No. of football markets: 56+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
Payment methods: 5
Mobile app: Yes

Why is BetUK my favourite football betting site? Well, if I’m giving out awards for coverage, it gets gold. BetUK’s oddsmakers cover every football league you’ve heard of and some you probably haven’t. The Premier League gets the most coverage, but scroll down the day’s latest odds, and you’ll find Bundesliga bets, Serie A wagers and, for something a bit different, Uganda Cup markets.

What’s even more impressive is the fact that BetUK offers eSports football betting. I haven’t seen many UK bookies cover eSports football leagues so that alone is unique. However, when it comes to overall coverage, very few of my top-rated UK football betting sites can match BetUK.

Pros
Covers more football leagues than most
Offers eSports football betting
Competitive football betting odds

Cons
Needs more payment options
Only offers live chat support

Bet at BetUK

17. Spreadex – Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets

Year established: 2006
No. of football markets: 50+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets
Payment methods: 3
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 7.30 am – 22.00 pm via live chat, email (info@spreadex.com), phone (01727 895 000)

I know spread betting isn’t to everyone’s taste, but Spreadex is one of my top football betting sites for this very reason. Yes, it’s a spread betting site, but it’s also a traditional sportsbook. This means you’ve got the ability to make football bets in a way that suits you.

Even better, you can learn the basics of spread betting on Spreadex and flit between the two mediums to find the best football betting odds. Sometimes, the fixed odds will be better; other times, you’ll find better spreads. In my opinion, this ability to survey both markets makes Spreadex one of the best betting sites for football.

Pros
Fixed odds and spread betting markets
Better-than-average welcome bonus
Great coverage of women’s football leagues

Cons
Customer support isn’t available 24/7
Not enough payment options

Bet at Spreadex

18. Betway – £10 in free bets + £20 in Euros free bets

Year established: 2006
No. of football markets: 70+
Welcome offer: £10 in free bets + £20 in Euros free bets
Payment methods: 5
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 8.00 am – 12.00 pm via live chat

I live online football betting sites that offer competitive odds on dozens of leagues and competitions. Betway does this just as well as any of the top-rated sportsbooks on this list. Its coverage of the leading football competitions is excellent. It offers plenty of bonus bets, and the software is well-refined.

However, the thing I really like about Betway is the fact it doesn’t discriminate between customer preferences. The welcome bonus is a great example of this. Giving newbies 100 free spins encourages you to move beyond football and seek out value elsewhere on the site. Based on this, Betway offers the best overall betting and gaming experience.

Pros
Best overall betting experience
Great deposit options, including Vyne and PayPal
Powerful bet builder tool

Cons
Odds could be better
Needs more customer support options

Bet at Betway

19. Parimatch – Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets

Year established: 2020
No. of football markets: 30+
Welcome offer: Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
Payment methods: 4
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 via live chat, email (help@parimatch.co.uk), Facebook, Twitter, SMS (+447700177678)

Usability is a concept that a lot of sportsbook reviews overlook. I get really frustrated with football betting sites that don’t list bets in easily identifiable ways. The developers at Parimatch understand the value of accessibility and usability. I know this because football bets are arranged in three simple ways.

Firstly, you use the top menu to find the types of markets you want. From there, you can tap the “matches” or “outright” buttons to display the results in a way you prefer. Finally, use the drop-down menus to reveal individual bets for your chosen competition. I love this three-step system, and it’s why Parimatch is one of my favourite football online betting sites.

Pros
Excellent, easy-to-use software
Fantastic customer service
Competitive football betting odds

Cons
Could cover more markets
More promotions would be nice

Bet at Parimatch

20. Unibet – £40 Moneyback on Losses + £10 Casino Bonus

Year established: 1997
No. of football markets: 50+
Welcome offer: £40 Moneyback on Losses + £10 Casino Bonus
Payment methods: 7
Mobile app: Yes
Customer support: 24/7 via live chat, phone (0800 329393), email (info-uk@unibetsupport.com)

Unibet is my go-to betting platform for in-play action. The live odds are always competitive, and the software is built in such a way that it rarely lags. My main reason for picking out Unibet as my go-to platform for live football betting is its streams and stats.

The amount of real-time information you can get via the website and app is tremendous. I’m someone who likes to base my decisions on as many variables as possible, and Unibet allows me to do this. So, if you live in-play action, give Unibet a try.

Pros
Generous live betting odds
Excellent live streaming service and in-play stats
Daily odds boosts and acca boosts

Cons
Doesn’t accept PayPal deposits
Withdrawals could be faster

Bet at Unibet

Meet our football expert

I’ve been kicking around the gambling world since 2010. Poker was my first passion, but I’ve been playing, watching, and, subsequently, betting on football for most of my life. The lessons I learned as a poker player have served me well in the sports betting world. Learning to spot value in the market, bankroll management and understanding the nature of long-term EV (expected value) are all skills I use when I’m picking results.

I have the same methodical approach when it comes to recommending football online betting sites. I don’t just listen to what other people say or take a company’s claims at face value. I test everything. I go to the UK Gambling Commission website to make sure an operator is fully regulated and isn’t facing disciplinary action. I speak to customer support agents, and I go through the process of making bets.

Something else I like to do is compare odds across different sites to see who offers the best lines. It’s also good to read match previews and reviews from noted pundits like Jamie O’Hara & Jason Cundy and Gary Neville. This gives me an indication of whether the oddsmakers have the right take on a match and, therefore, if the odds offer any value.
Daniel Smyth

How I rank UK football betting sites

The way I rank football betting sites UK customers can use is based on a combination of evidence and experience. I’ve been in the game for over 14 years, so I know what I like and, moreover, what the betting public likes.

I understand the industry from a professional perspective and as a consumer. I combine this experience with what I find at licensed betting sites to find what I believe are the top platforms. The main metrics I assess when I’m using sports betting sites are:

Range of football games and leagues

Coverage is one of the most important qualities when it comes to football betting. It’s the most popular sport in the world, and bookies should treat it as such. I expect a sportsbook to cover the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and every other major league. I also want some variety in the form of non-league games, friendlies, internationals and games from countries as far-flung as Uganda. Then, if the oddsmakers really want to provide a comprehensive service, they should cover virtual and eSports football events.

Best betting odds

Odds matter when it comes to sports betting. I’m happy to acknowledge that a betting site won’t have the best odds guaranteed for every event or outcome. However, they should at least have some lines that are better than the market average. My tip for getting the best possible odds for any outcome is to use multiple sportsbooks. This strategy allows you to find bets and compare the odds across different platforms to find the most lucrative lines.

Live betting options

Live betting is one of the reasons I was first drawn to football. The fact a game can change in seconds makes it extremely entertaining. What’s more, if you’re able to read the flow of a game and see changes before the oddsmakers, live football betting can be potentially lucrative. That’s why I look at betting apps that aren’t overloaded with page elements. This allows me to see the latest in-play odds and take advantage of the best lines with a single tap.

Cashout features

In-play cashouts emerged about 10 years ago, and unlike other innovations, they’ve stuck around. That’s because you can improve your long-term EV if you know how to use this feature properly. Because in-play cashouts are a handy tool for improving your EV, I like to recommend football sportsbooks with this feature.

Football bonuses and promotions

I always say that very few things are guaranteed in gambling. I can give you all of my football betting tips and insights, but that doesn’t mean you’ll win every bet you make. Free bets and betting offers are the only ways to get guaranteed returns. As long as you follow the terms and conditions, you’ll get bonus bets, enhanced odds, cashback, or some other type of reward.

I make sure online football betting sites have sport-specific promotions such as acca boosts, bet insurance, and early payouts. I also review the terms and conditions. A lot of gambling pundits fail to disclose the true value of a bonus because they don’t look at the wagering conditions.

You need to know about qualifying bets, IP and household restrictions, rollover targets, and minimum odds. I not only tell you about wagering requirements, but I also make sure they’re suitable for all bettors, not just those with big bankrolls.

Mobile betting apps

Mobiles have become the dominant force in gambling over the last five years, with Gambling Commission data showing that over 50% of people use their smartphones to gamble. Based on this fact alone, the best football betting sites need to be available on iOS and Android devices. I also like bookmakers to have native betting apps because they aid the live betting experience.

Reputation and trustworthiness

A gambler is the sum of his reputation, and the same goes for gambling companies. One bad transaction or failure to pay a bet ruins a company’s reputation. That’s why I only recommend bookies with long-standing reputations for safety, quality, and customer service. Additionally, I’ll only ever recommend betting companies that are licensed in the UK.

Customer support

Tied in with the concept of reputation and trust is customer support. Live chat, email and phone support are minimum requirements. I also like to see companies actively engage with customers and non-customers on social media. I personally contact support agents to see how quickly they resolve issues (I’ve made up) and how polite they are.

Irish? Find our list of the best Irish football betting sites

Football betting in the UK. BeGambleAware.org – Please play responsibly

Facts about football betting in the UK

Did you know people who follow a football team are more likely to bet than those who don’t follow any team?
Football betting accounts for 40% of all sports betting in the UK
The most popular football betting offer for UK punters is ‘Bet £10 and get £30’
Football betting winnings are tax-free!
The Premier League is the most bet-on football league in the world it even outranks the World Cup
The top 5 football bookmakers in the UK are Bet365, William Hill, Ladbrokes, Coral, and Paddy Power, which account for over 80% of the total market share.
Football/soccer betting makes up over a third (37%) of all sports betting in the UK.
According to the UK Gambling Commission, the total gross gambling yield of the UK’s football betting industry was £5.3 billion in 2019.

Most popular football leagues to bet on

Football is the world’s game but, as we all know, some countries do it better than others. The leading UK football betting sites offer odds on all the top leagues and competitions, including these major players:

Premier League

England’s leading football league was founded in 1992 and still plays host to some of the biggest matches in the world. 20 clubs, including Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United, currently fight for Premier League glory from August to May. Such is the commercial status of the Premier League that TV rights sell for £5 billion, and matches are watched by over 4.7 billion people.

La Liga

La Liga is the pinnacle of Spanish football. The league was founded in 1929 and featured 20 of the best football teams in Spain. The average attendance for La Liga games is over 26,000, and some of the league’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, have won the most prestigious competitions in football.

Serie A

Italy’s Serie A has long been regarded as one of the toughest football leagues in the world. The skill differential between its 20 teams. It’s been that way since the league was originally founded in 1898.

Bundesliga

Germany’s top football league often doesn’t get the credit it deserves on the international stage because it’s been dominated by Bayern Munich since its inception in 1963. However, despite the fact Bayern have won the Bundesliga 32 times (as of 2023), the 17 other clubs that compete for glory every year, including Borussia Dortmund, are all strong.

Europa League

The UEFA Europa League was originally founded as the UEFA Cup in 1971. It was rebranded in 2009, and a league format was introduced. Today, 58 teams from countries around Europe can qualify for the Europa League. That number is whittled down to 40 and, eventually, 32 teams for the group stage. Sevilla won the Europa League for the 7^th time in 2023.

Champions League

The UEFA Champions League is the biggest prize in club football. In many ways, it’s second only to the World Cup and European Championship in terms of prestige. The format has evolved since the first Champions League game in 1992, but the fundamental premise of bringing together the top teams from leagues across Europe remains the same.

UEFA European Championship

The UEFA European Championship is the biggest national football tournament in Europe, first held in 1960. The most successful nations are Spain and Germany in the tournament’s history with three trophies each.

In 2024, it’s all about Euros! So, if you would like to read more expert predictions and betting tips about the 2024 European Championship, check out our articles about the tournament:

Most popular football betting markets

The best betting sites for football typically offer 500+ markets for major games. This means you can be as general or specific as you like when it comes to making predictions. Some of my preferred ways to bet on football are:

Match result

Match result is a simple outright bet that allows you to pick X or Y i.e. you’re betting on one team to win the match. Alternatively, you can bet on a draw.

Over/Under goals

Goals make football great, but if you’re not sure which teams are going to score, you can bet on whether the final result will be over or under a line set by the bookie. For example, over 2.5 means you’re betting on the number of goals scored to be three or more.

Both teams to score

This bet does exactly what it says on the tin i.e. you’re either betting that both teams will score or you’re betting against the proposition.

Correct score

Correct score bets require you to predict the result and the number of goals each team will score/not score. A typical scoreline bet would be: “Arsenal to beat Manchester United 2-1”. These bets aren’t easy to win, so the odds are usually long.

First goalscorer

First-player-to-score markets are great because you can often find some unexpected value. Strikers almost always have the shortest odds, so I like to look at attacking midfielders or defenders known for scoring headers from set pieces.

Want to check how well your planned bets will pay off? Use our bet calculator!

How to choose a football betting site and sign up

Use my mini-reviews to get an idea of what each betting site offers in terms of football odds, bonuses, and features. Once you’ve done that, check out the full review for your chosen sites to get a comprehensive overview of what they offer. Finally, follow these steps to start your betting experience:

Tap the sign-up link to start the registration process.
Open the registration form and enter your details.
Make sure your details match those on your ID so you pass the KYC checks.
Verify your account and log in.
Make a deposit.
Claim your sign-up bonus (aka welcome bonus).
Start betting to release your bonus credits.

How to place a bet on a football game

Here’s how to make picks and wager money at your favourite football betting site:

Log into your account via the bookmaker’s website or the mobile app.
Open the cashier page and make a deposit if you don’t already have money in your account.
Go to the sports betting menu and tap “Football”.
Scroll through the available submenus, e.g. live, matches, and all competitions.
Select a game to view all the latest odds.
Tap the odds next to your desired pick.
Enter your stake in the bet slip.
Tap OK/Bet to lock in your wager and wait for the result.

Payment options on UK football betting platforms

You’ll have various safe ways to pay when you use the best UK football betting websites and apps. Traditional methods such as Visa, Mastercard, and bank transfer are the most accessible because pretty much everyone has access to these payment options.

However, for the fastest withdrawals, you should use eWallets and mobile wallets like PayPal, Skrill, Apple Pay and Google Pay. In some instances, you’ll also be able to make deposits and withdrawals in person at an operator’s retail betting shops.

The main ways to make deposits and withdrawals are:

Visa (debit card)
Mastercard (debit card)
Bank transfer
PayPal
Skrill
Neteller
paysafecard
RAPID
Apple Pay
Google Pay
In-person cash payments

Football betting sites tips to win real money

Before I give you my top football betting tips, I want to reiterate a previous point I made: there are very few guarantees in gambling. You can research a match, assess the odds and make what seems like an unbeatable prediction and still lose. Therefore, if you’re betting on football, don’t take anything for granted. Having said that, you can improve your long-term potential by following these five football betting tips:

Remember to bet responsibly

My top tip applies to all forms of gambling and picks up on the point I just made. The uncertainty of gambling means you should always use a conservative strategy. That means only risking a small percentage of your bankroll each time you place a bet. You should also limit the amount of time you’re active online and never make decisions when you’re overly emotional. Act rationally and responsibly at all times.

Analyse team form and player performance

I spend a lot of time pouring over statistics, match reports and tips from football pundits before I make a bet. The top UK betting sites for football offer a ton of information, so make use of it. Football is as much a game of data as it is tactics, flare and feel.

Use my list of football betting platforms

The reason I’ve revealed my 10 best football betting sites is not to show off how much I know about the industry but so you can have the best experience possible. My top picks are safe, reputable and offer something other bookies don’t. Using our secure sign-up links gives you direct access to the game’s major players and exclusive welcome bonuses.

Grab football bonuses and promotions

I’ve just said that our registration links give you access to exclusive welcome bonuses. That’s true, but these links are also doorways into worlds with plenty of ongoing offers. From odds boosts and acca insurance to free competitions, there are plenty of ways to get something extra when you bet on football.

Explore different football markets

The Premier League is where most football bettors focus their attention, but don’t be afraid to look elsewhere for action. In my experience, you’ll often find better odds (i.e. odds that aren’t priced as accurately as they could be) if you focus on minor leagues.

A skilled football bettor looks for situations where the oddsmakers haven’t assessed the situation as well as they could have. This often leads to the odds being slightly off, which, in turn, gives you a chance to get more value than you otherwise would have. You often find these situations in games outside of the major leagues.

Q&As about online football betting sites

1. How easy is it to deposit and withdraw money from football betting sites?

It’s easy to make instant deposits and withdrawals at the best UK football betting sites. You can use a variety of reputable payment processors at the top-rated UK sportsbooks, including Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, and Skrill. Withdrawals can take up to five days, but eWallets such as PayPal allow you to receive your money within 24 hours.

2. Do betting sites offer football bonuses?

Yes, all licensed and reputable UK online football betting sites offer welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions. New customers get bonus bets when they make an initial deposit at my recommended football betting sites. From there, you can get daily odds boosts, enhanced payouts, early settlements and cashback. Some sportsbooks, including bet365, also let you win up to £250,000 in free-to-enter competitions.

3. What is the best football bet to make?

The best football bet you can make if you want the lowest amount of risk is an outright i.e. a win bet. Outright bets require you to pick the result of a match i.e. a team to win or a draw. The simple nature of these bets means they’re fairly low risk, which, in turn, means the odds are short. If you want bigger returns and don’t mind accepting more risk, acca bets are worth trying.

4. How do I understand the odds on these sites?

We’ve got various sports betting guides on how to read odds. You can also access betting guides on your chosen sportsbook. Betting odds are, basically, a statistical representation of how confident a bookmaker is in a certain outcome. The number also dictates how much you win based on your stake, e.g. 3/1 means you win three units for every one unit wagered.

5. Which football bookies have the cashout option?

All of the top UK football betting sites online have cashout options, including bet365, BetUK, and Sky Bet. The cashout feature lets you end bets before their natural conclusion. You’re given a price to end the bet, and if you accept, the cash is credited to your account, regardless of the final result.

6. Can I use my mobile phone for football betting?

Yes, you can use your mobile phone to bet on football matches from around the world using our top-rated bookies, including bet365. All of my suggested football betting sites UK customers can use are available in Google Play as well as Apple’s App Store. This means you can download an app to bet on football, claim bonuses and enjoy everything the top sportsbooks have to offer.

7. What football leagues do people in the UK bet on?

Here is the list of the top football leagues and tournaments for betting in the UK:

Competition	Country	Teams	Season
UEFA Champions League	European nations	32	August until May
English Premier League (EPL)	England	20	August until May
UEFA Europa League	European nations	32	September until May
English Championship	England	24	August until May
Serie A	Italy	20	August until May
Ligue 1	France	20	August until May
La Liga	Spain	20	August until May
Bundesliga	Germany	18	August until May
League One	England	24	August until May
League Two	England	24	August until May
Scottish Premiership	Scotland	10	August until May
Scottish Championship	Scotland	10	July until May
Scottish League 1	Scotland	10	August until May
FA Cup	England	737	August until May
WC Qualifiers	Worldwide	210	Summer every 4 years
EURO	European nations	24	Summer every 4 years

8. Which is the best football bet?

In my opinion, it’s “both teams to score“. A Both Teams To Score (BTTS) bet is a wager on which both teams in a match will score at least one goal each. The bet is settled on the outcome of the full-time result and extra time does not count. If both teams score at least one goal each, the bet is a winner. If only one team scores, or neither team scores, the bet is lost.

My personal opinion on football betting sites in the UK

The online gambling world is great, but it’s full of duds, dead ends and dreadful apps. I know because I’ve made the mistake of using subpar platforms over the years. That’s why I wrote this guide. Online football betting is great, and I want you to get the most out of it.

My recommended sportsbooks are the proverbial Champions League contenders when it comes to odds, offers, and all-around service. So, if you’re going to bet on football, don’t waste time falling for non-league betting sites. Use my top picks and have some fun.

About the author

Daniel Smyth

Daniel Smyth has seen the online poker, casino, and betting industry from every angle. He previously played poker semi-professionally before working at WPT Magazine as a writer and editor. From there, he transitioned to online gaming where he’s been producing expert content for over 10 years.

Follow Daniel on Twitter @DanSmythThePoet

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Luke Humphries joins elite group as world number one banks another £200k with World Matchplay triumph

Jackson Cole — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Luke Humphries added the World Matchplay crown to his growing list of major honours, and cement himself as the number one darts player in the world.

The world no.1 secured an 18-15 victory over Michael van Gerwen in a thrilling match at Blackpool‘s Winter Gardens on Sunday night.

It’s been some 2024 for Humphries, who adds the World Matchplay to his growing collection

Getty

With his latest triumph, Humphries becomes just the fourth man to be crowned World Championship and World Matchplay champion in the same year.

He joins Van Gerwen, Phil Taylor and Peter Wright as the only players to have won the two most prestigious competitions in the same year.

Since Humphries was beaten in the Matchplay semi-final 12 months ago he has made eight finals in 10 major tournaments, winning seven of them in a stellar year.

That of course included the World Championship at Alexandra Palace, when he beat teenage sensation Luke Littler in the final.

The Matchplay final could have gone either way, with Van Gerwen missing four darts to make it 16-16 as Humphries held his nerve to

It is Humphries’ eighth-straight victory over the Dutchman, who was eyeing a fourth title in Blackpool and was bidding to end a lean 12 months by winning his biggest tournament since the 2023 Premier League.

The triumph sees Humphries bank a whopping £200,000 – taking his total prize money now close to £2m in the last two years.

Cool Hand has earned a cool £200k for his troubles in Blackpool

Getty

Van Gerwen had his chances in the hotly-contested final but came up short

Getty

“I feel like I felt more emotional than when I won the worlds,” Humphries said of his Masters victory.

“I think I got a bit lucky in the end. I think Michael missed a lot of chances… that 100, that double top. I’m going to watch that back about a hundred times tonight!”

“It’s the most incredible thing, I am really blessed to be on this stage, to be a part of such a great sport.

“I feel very privileged to hold this trophy, like so many great players, especially Phil Taylor – 16-time champ. To put my name on it, I’m absolutely over the moon.

“To do it in the same year as the World Championship, it really does mean the world to me.”

Next Democratic candidate odds: US election betting

Sune Ditlefsen — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Joe Biden is under pressure. To put it mildly.

Following a disastrous performance in the live televised Presidential debate with Donald Trump and the latest press conference, the list of names calling for Biden to stand aside is growing by the day.

In the latest democratic candidate odds, Biden’s price is on the drift. Despite his age and all the negative publicity, the current President is adamant he is the best man to fight the election.

But with his every move now being more scrutinised than ever, it is surely only a matter of time before Biden slips up again and the pressure on him increases even more.

Current odds for the next Democratic Presidential nominee

Find the latest odds for who will represent the Democrats at the US Presidential elections in November. Odds are subject to change.

Kamala Harris – 1/6 at Betfred
Gavin Newsom – 14/1 at BoyleSports
Michelle Obama – 16/1 at Paddy Power
Gretchen Whitmer – 20/1 at bet365
Hillary Clinton – 67/1 at Betfair

^{*Odds updated at 8:55 – 22/07/2024}

Top bookmakers for US election betting

The top bookmakers have plenty of betting markets for the 2024 US Presidential Election. Below we have compiled a list of the best bookies for American politics.

Top markets covered by our recommended bookmakers include betting to win the Presidential Election, betting to be the Democratic Nominee, and betting to be the Vice Presidential candidate.

Potential Democratic nominees

Donald Trump is the favourite to win the 2024 Presidential Election. But Trump is divisive and the Democratic Party believes he is beatable.

The problem facing the Democrats is that more and more Americans now believe Joe Biden is unsuitable for the office of President. This belief is pushing floating voters towards Trump.

So if the Democrats can find a suitable replacement for Biden, their chances of victory will be increased. Here we look at the main potential candidates to take Trump on.

Joe Biden (-)

Joe Biden has beaten Trump before. Under normal circumstances, Biden would probably win again, so it’s easy to see why he regards himself as the person best equipped to win the election.

But the circumstances surrounding Biden are no longer normal. He looks old and frail and that is the narrative that most Americans now believe.

Now, Joe Biden has withdrawn his candidacy for the second term and has backed up Kamala Harris as the democratic candidate.

Kamala Harris (1/6 at Betfred)

Kamala Harris was Joe Biden’s running mate in 2020 and is Vice-President in his current administration. As the first black and South Asian American female vice president in history, Harris represents diversity in American politics.

She also now has plenty of experience in high office in the USA. As Vice-President, she is trusted with the role of leading the country if the President is incapacitated in any way. Harris would be a solid pick to run against Trump.

Back Kamala Harris to be Presidential candidate at Betfred

Gavin Newsom

California governor Gavin Newsom has long been mooted as a possible alternative to Joe Biden. Newson has been governor of California since 2019, and before that role, he was mayor of San Francisco between 2004 and 2011.

Newsom is 56 years old. He has age on his side against both Biden and Trump. So far, Newsom has remained loyal to Biden. If required to run against Trump, Newsom would tick a lot of boxes with American voters that Biden can no longer do.

Others

Other possible candidates are Michelle Obama, Gretchen Whitmer and Hilary Clinton.

Starting with Michelle Obama, the big problem is she hasn’t shown any interest in getting into politics. But despite this, there have been recent rumours that Biden is planning to hand the reins over to the former First Lady at the Democratic convention in August. These rumours continue to hold her price up among the betting favourites.

If this does happen, it would be seismic. The Obamas are big names on the global stage and would represent a huge headache for Trump.

Gretchen Whitmer is another name that continues to be mentioned among the favourites. The 52-year-old is the governor of Michigan, a role she has held since 2019. A lawyer by trade, Whitmer has an impressive Resume, making her a more than suitable candidate to replace Joe Biden.

Whitmer has publicly backed Biden. But this doesn’t mean she wouldn’t run if the President does decide to pull out.

Finally, would Hillary Clinton have the appetite to come back and take on Donald Trump again?

The former First Lady suffered a bruising defeat to Trump back in 2016. It’s highly unlikely that Americans who didn’t vote for her the first time are any more likely to do so eight years on. Even having her name on the ticket to run again would be a long shot.

How to bet on the next Democratic candidate

Political betting is becoming more popular than ever. With the increasing uncertainty about Joe Biden remaining as the nominee, the betting market to be the next Democratic candidate is on fire. If you want to bet on it, here’s how to do it….

Choose a sportsbook from our list of recommended political betting sites
Open a new account and deposit funds
Navigate your way to Politics in the list of markets
Find the betting odds to be the Democratic candidate
Choose the candidate you wish to bet on
Enter the amount you want to wager
Submit your bet

Remember to double check everything is correct before you hit that submit button. For guidance on your wager, remember to check out the bet calculator to find your potential return when betting on outcomes for the US election.

FAQ about the next Democratic nominee

The Democrats are on course to lose the 2024 US Presidential Election. The party is in a state of turmoil with members, prominent supporters and donors all debating Joe Biden’s suitability to be the Democratic candidate to fight the upcoming election.

The issue of who will take on Donald Trump in November’s election should already be a done deal. The fact it is still being debated reflects badly on the party of the current President. Below we take a look at some of the issues in our FAQ.

1. Why is Joe Biden not secured to run for the Democrats?

Joe Biden secured enough votes to become the Democratic nominee in March 2024. Only Biden can take himself out of the race for the White House.

In recent months, polling in swing States that Biden would need to win to defeat Trump has shown he is on course to lose. Along with increasing speculation about Biden’s health, this has led to members of the Democrats asking Biden to step down and let a more suitable candidate take on Trump.

The Democrats can put pressure on Biden. But ultimately, it’s his choice.

2. When is the deadline for selecting the Democratic candidate?

The Democrats will officially confirm their nominee at the Democratic National Convention, held from 19th to 22nd August.

Joe Biden withdrew his candidacy ahead of the DNC, allowing the party to name his successor at the Convention.

Even then, the process to replace Biden could be bogged down by legal disputes. After all, not everybody wants Biden out of the way ahead of the election. Some believe they have more to gain by keeping him in the race.

3. Is it legal to bet on the US election in the US?

It is legal to place bets on prediction markets on the US election in the US. There are plans in place to ban the practice, but as of now, it is an ongoing fight.

In general, betting in America is regulated on a state-by-state basis. In Nevada, it is possible to bet on practically anything. While in religious states like Utah, the laws prohibiting gambling are so strict that there isn’t even a state lottery.

For UK players, no strict limitations are in place, and most bookmakers will provide markets for the US election. Check out the list above for the best UK bookmakers to vote on the Democratic nominee, and other US Presidential Election markets.

About the author

Dean Etheridge

Dean Etheridge is an experienced freelance sports betting writer who specialises in football. He predominantly covers the Premier League and Champions League but can turn his hand to all aspects of the beautiful game. You can follow Dean on LinkedIn (@deanetheridge)

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Top bookies with fast withdrawals in the UK for July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Funding an online betting account is quick and easy, and playing and betting on your favourite sports is exciting, especially when you’re winning. However, withdrawing those winnings is another story.

After the hassle of meeting wagering requirements, you then often have to wait days to get your hands on the money you’ve withdrawn from a sportsbook.

It seems like gambling sites have been listening to the complaints of many bettors and are now acting to ensure there are faster withdrawal payments.

More top UK betting sites feature withdrawal methods where your funds are processed and sent to you within a day or even less. In this article, I’ll show you the best casinos with lightning-fast withdrawals, ensuring you can enjoy your winnings without the unnecessary wait.

Best fast withdrawal betting sites in the UK

How I test the fastest withdrawal bookmakers

In my experience, the elements that make up a good sportsbook are trustworthiness, security, sports variety, promotions, payment options, customer support, selection of football betting markets, and of course, withdrawal speed. I’ve looked for and found these elements in the ten betting sites featured in this piece. These elements make a good betting site, but what makes a fast withdrawal bookmaker?

I tested the speed of each bookmaker by checking the list of their supported payment methods first. I had to check if they include methods that allow instant withdrawals, including Google Pay. Most online wallets will reflect funds you’ve sent to them from a betting site as soon as the bookmaker sends them.

Bookmakers can take a long time to process them and send them to you. Yet the sportsbooks I’ve chosen have a dedicated team dealing with processing withdrawal for 24 hours daily. When you request a withdrawal with Google Pay, for instance, it will be processed quickly so that you receive your funds instantaneously, within a few or up to 24 hours.

I’ve tested this by checking if when making a Google Pay, Trustly, PayPal and other fast e-wallet withdrawals to see if they’ll reflect within a day. The fast withdrawal betting sites listed here live up to this option.

My favourite betting sites for fast withdrawals

Spreadex – Has many speedy payment options, including PayPal and ecoPayz.
Parimatch – Offers a FastFunds feature that enables withdrawals to enter a player’s account within 30 minutes.
kwiff – Most withdrawals are processed instantly and paid out within 15 minutes.

The bookies with the fastest withdrawal times

1. Spreadex

Spreadex highlights

Card withdrawals are received within 2 hours of being approved
Bank transfers will be received within 2 working days
CHAPS same-day transfers can be requested, but are subject to a £25 charge

Bet at Spreadex

2. Parimatch

Parimatch highlights

FastFunds withdrawals (available to Visa users) can be processed within 30 minutes
PayPal withdrawals are approved within 24 hours

Bet at Parimatch

3. kwiff

kwiff highlights

PayPal is processed within 4-24 hours
Rapid Transfers are instant

Bet at kwiff

4. Unibet

Unibet highlights

E-wallet withdrawals (PayPal, Skrill and Neteller) are processed within 12 hours
Trustly transactions are approved in up to 24 hours
Apple Pay withdrawals are usually processed within a few hours

Bet at Unibet

5. bet365

bet365 highlights

Wire Transfers are processed within 24 hours
PayPal and paysafecard transfers are completed within 24 hours
Visa, Maestro and Mastercard withdrawals are processed within 1-3 banking days

Bet at bet365

6. BetUK

BetUK highlights

Fast withdrawals are enabled on all major banks and PayPal withdrawals
Most withdrawals are processed instantly and paid into a player’s account within 15 minutes

Bet at BetUK

7. MrMega

MrMega highlights

Rapid Transfers are processed within 3 hours
PayPay, Skrill and Neteller are also available but are processed within 38 hours

Bet at MrMega

8. William Hill

William Hill highlights

Rapid Transfers are processed within 24 hours
PayPal is processed within 24 hours
Neteller is processed within 24 hours
Skrill is processed within 24 hours
ecoPayz is processed within 24 hours

Bet at William Hill

9. talkSPORT BET

talkSPORT BET highlights

Visa withdrawals can reach a player’s account within 30 minutes of approval with FastFunds

Bet at talkSPORT BET

10. Betway

Betway highlights

E-wallet withdrawals are processed in 2-24 hours
Visa Direct transactions can allow debit card withdrawals to reach bank accounts within 12 hours

Bet at Betway

What are the best payment methods for fast withdrawals?

Fast withdrawal payment methods have been a long-standing desire among bettors, myself included, when it comes to the best betting sites. Gambling sites have made it their goal to meet fast payment options halfway by having teams that help keep processing time shorter. Even central banks have joined in by offering fast transaction processing options.

Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro)

In my experience, debit cards including Visa and Mastercard are supported by almost every betting site in the UK and globally. They aren’t known as the quickest way of receiving your funds, but they’re the most common way for most people to deposit and withdraw. The recent introduction of Visa Fast Funds or Visa Direct has drawn punters back to using Visa. That’s because the processing time ranges between 30 minutes to 4 hours.

E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller)

PayPal, Skrill, Neteller and Trustly are some of the most popular payment methods UK bookies support to ensure faster withdrawals for customers. Withdrawals with e-wallets usually take up to a day to process, but depending on the site, they can happen even quicker.

Cryptocurrencies

Since their introduction to gambling sites, withdrawing your funds through crypto meant having them reflected in your wallet instantly. Cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin are some that you’re most likely to come across on betting sites.

What are the slowest payment methods for withdrawals?

There are certain withdrawal methods that players need to be aware of because they can take days to process funds. This is usually because the betting site does its processing and the bank also takes time to process the transaction. Remember, most financial organisations work only Monday to Friday if there’s no public holiday. So, don’t be surprised that some payment methods can take over a week to process withdrawals.

Bank wire

Bank transfer or bank wire is one of those payment options where you forget about your withdrawal request for a while, remember it, check your bank balance, and it’s still not there. If you think waiting for five days is long, you’ll need more patience here, as it can take up to 10 days.

Cheque

Not many bettors know, but you can request your withdrawal via cheque in a bookie. However, you’ll have to be very patient as the process is lengthy. You must first request the cheque and then wait for it to arrive. Upon arrival, you’ll have to visit the respective bank, deposit it to your account or cash it in. If you’re lucky, this process can take five days. Yet there’s also a possibility of it taking up to 28 days.

Found a fast withdrawal site you like? Use the bet calculator to figure out if the offer is worth your time!

How can I improve withdrawal times?

There are a few ways to ensure that you don’t contribute to your withdrawal request delay. They include the following:

Verifying your account: Go through the KYC procedure right after you’ve joined a betting site so that you aren’t asked to do it while requesting your withdrawal. To verify your account, you’re typically asked for a proof of identity document like your government ID card, passport or driver’s licence. Some bookies can ask for proof of address documents like your utility bills or bank statement that isn’t older than six months.
Choose a fast withdrawal method like Google Pay, PayPal, Neteller, Skrill or Visa Direct. These are usually processed within a day on top UK betting sites.

Final verdict on fast withdrawal betting sites

Nowadays, there are several fast and safe betting sites in the UK that bettors can take advantage of. E-wallets and cryptocurrencies have always been known to be the faster payment option, but banks are now rethinking their offerings and joining in with fast withdrawals.

When looking for a payment option that processes withdrawals within a day or less, you won’t only find e-wallets and cryptos, but there are also Rapid Transfers such as Visa Direct, which can be processed within 4 hours. Crypto withdrawals are instant, while most e-wallets vary between instant, 4 hours, 8 hours or 24 hours. Please don’t settle for a site that cannot process your withdrawal within a day; there’s plenty out there which will cater to your needs.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Best live betting sites and in-play bookmakers in July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:55:00 +0000

Live sports betting has become a big part of the online betting experience in recent years.

More and more operators have thrown their arms around in-play betting and the majority of them will now have dedicated live sections, which I think is fantastic.

My favourite live betting offer for the 2024 Euros

The increase in popularity of in-play betting means that it is now a key factor for players looking for a new bookmaker to sign up with. In this handy guide, I’ll take look at the best in-play betting bookmakers in the UK, listed their pros and cons, and shared my thoughts on what they have to offer.

Top live betting sites and in-play bookmakers in the UK

A closer look at the best live betting sites

1. My top pick: BetUK

BetUK is one of the best new betting sites in the UK. I’ve been seriously impressed with how quickly they’ve made a name for themselves in the game, and its in-play betting category is one of the best around. It offers a huge range of markets, and has carved itself a niche as one of the best Esports operators around.

Pros
Plenty of statistics to help you analyse events
Big range of esports options
Good range of payment methods

Cons
Occasional delays when odds are changing

Bet at BetUK

2. Unibet

Unibet’s website is a joy to use. In my opinion, it has a clean and simple design that makes it clear for players to find what they are looking for. This is especially useful with in-play betting, as there can be a lot going on. Unibet also offers one of the most comprehensive statistic section in the sports betting market.

Pros
A brilliant statistics section
Rated top three in the best sports betting apps tests
A user-friendly design
Wide range of sports betting markets

Cons
No live-chat option

Bet at Unibet

3. bet365

bet365 is the undisputed king of in-play betting. The site allows punters to bet in-play on just about any sport or event they can think of, and it offers live streams for many of them too. It also offers some of the most comprehensive stats on the market, and regularly has price boosts and in-play offers available.

Pros
User-friendly design on both desktop and mobile devices
A comprehensive selection of sports and markets
Selection of bonuses dedicated to each sport
Big range of live streams to choose from

Cons
Some restrictions with payment methods

Bet at bet365

4. Spreadex

If you fancy a spot of in-play spread betting, then Spreadex is the site for you. The operator provides some of the most in-depth markets for both fixed odds and spread betting. It is also host to a plethora of live streams. The sportsbook has some of the best customer support around, ensuring you won’t find yourself in a sticky situation when you are betting in-play.

Pros
Spread betting options available in play
Excellent customer support
Plenty of live streams
Good fixed odds options as well

Cons
Slightly dated design for in-play

Bet at Spreadex

5. Parimatch

The Parimatch live betting section is highly comprehensive. It covers a wide range of sports and betting markets and has some of the most competitive odds on the internet. In my opinion, the design of the section is user-friendly and visually pleasing, ensuring that players have a pleasurable in-play betting experience.

Pros
Very user-friendly website
Big focus on football betting markets
Fantastic mobile app for in-play betting

Cons
Not as many markets as some of its competitors

Bet at Parimatch

6. Betway

Betway offers a variety of live betting markets for players to enjoy. The in-play section is fit to burst, and it offers in-depth markets across a wide range of sports. The site is also home to some great recurring offers including its Free Bet club and a top loyalty scheme.

Pros
Instantly recognisable brand with a big reputation
Great promotions for new and existing customers
Good selection of in-play markets

Cons
Occasional delay with placing in-play bets

Bet at Betway

7. BetVictor

BetVictor has been around in the sports betting world in one form or another since 1946. In that time, it has mastered the art of customer satisfaction. This is on full display with its in-play betting options.

Players are treated to a selection of live markets covering everything from football to Esports. It is also notable for allowing in-play handicap betting, something which many of its competitors do not offer.

Pros
Constantly expanding its sports markets
Selection of bonus features
Easy to use website on both desktop and mobile devices

Cons
Some usability issues

Bet at BetVictor

8. Paddy Power

Paddy Power is one of the most recognisable sports betting brands in the UK, and it offers a strong in-play betting section. The section is incredibly well-designed and it offers up to the second odds that eagle-eyed punters can take advantage of. It is also one of the few bookies to focus on horse racing in play, which is something many bookies do not do.

Pros
One of the most trusted names in the industry
Very fast loading times
Some of the best odds in the industry

Cons
Poor cash-out offerings

Bet at Paddy Power

9. William Hill

When I’m diving into in-play betting, there are few websites out there that can compete with William Hill. The experienced bookie offers a stylish in-play betting experience that immerses players in the action and offers up-to-the-minute odds. William Hill TV is one of the best streaming services provided by any bookmaker in the UK or elsewhere.

Pros
William Hill TV offers one of the best streaming services in sports betting
Competitive odds
Stylish website design

Cons
Not a huge number of active in-play betting bonuses

Bet at William Hill

10. kwiff

kwiff is a relative newbie compared to other bookies on my list, but its in-play betting options still manage to pack a punch. The site is all about offering players a supercharged experience, and it does this with enhanced odds and a ton of live streams to keep punters entertained.

Pros
Some of the most competitive odds in the industry
Big selection of live streams
Mobile application available on both Android and iOS

Cons
Fewer markets than its competitors

Bet at kwiff

How I rank in-play betting apps:

In-play betting features

Top online bookmakers will compete with one another to offer the best features for punters. A key factor for me is the range of statistics that an operator has to offer. For example, BetUK offers tons of in-game statistics to help players make informed decisions.

A variety of sports and markets

In-play betting is becoming increasingly popular, and bookies are expanding the number of sports that they offer it in. Almost every bookmaker will offer in-play betting on football, but the best ones will offer it on more obscure sports and in some cases, non-sporting events.

User interface

In-play betting has a different look and feel to it than normal betting. As such, getting the user interface right can make or break an experience. The real-time betting sites I have chosen all offer a great user interface that makes placing in-play bets as straightforward as possible. If the site has a bet calculator incorporated, even better!

Promotions

In-play promotions have become increasingly popular, especially during big events. Many of the betting sites I have listed will offer promotions and features such as enhanced odds or free in-play bets for punters to take advantage of. For more promos, take a look at the best existing customer betting offers and no-deposit free bet offers.

Payment methods

Users always need many options to deposit and withdraw their funds, and most will offer Visa and Mastercard debit cards, as well as PayPal, but many will also have Skrill and Neteller.

Streaming

Streaming and in-play betting go hand-in-hand with following races and the top football tournaments. The best way to keep up to date with the action is to watch it unfold using a live stream. Many of the bookmakers will provide alternative options if they are unable to offer a live stream. This often involves some sort of visual representation of the match accompanied by text commentary.

Pauses and delays

With in-play sports betting, every second counts. I analyse the speed at which a bookmaker updates its odds in its live betting section. Some sites are able to update their odds without players even realising, while others may have a slight delay.

What is in-play betting. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

How in-play betting works

In-play betting does as it says on the tin. It allows punters like me the opportunity to place in-bets on sports. This is a great way of keeping involved with the action, with the odds adjusting to the event in real time. Most bookies will offer in-play betting across all of their markets, with some of them even mixing it up and allowing you to bet in-play on TV shows and other events.

Advantages of live betting

The biggest advantage of live betting is that allows you to make a decision based on what is currently happening. For example, if you are watching a football match and a key player gets injured, you will be able to react to this and bet accordingly. Betting before the match doesn’t offer you the same level of insight. You can also send changes in momentum and attempt to get ahead of the bookies when betting live.

Risks of live betting

Live betting can be hugely advantageous, but you should also approach it with caution. In-play betting can often lead to people doubling down on their bets, and potentially losing more money. It is also not the best option for players that tend to be more impulsive, as it can lead to some bad decisions being made.

I recommend that players make sure to check through the statistics and not just place a bet the moment there is a price shift. As with most forms of betting, discipline is the key.

How do I place an in-play bet?

Placing an in-play bet is nice and simple. When you log-in to your preferred bookmaker, head over to the the menu at either the top or the right-hand side of the screen. Click on the section marked either live or in-play. You will then see a range of live events.

Click on the live event and you will open all of the betting markets available. From here, you can just follow the typical procedure for placing a bet. If an event has a live stream, it will typically be marked by a little TV or camera icon.

In-play betting tips:

Master your timing

In-play betting is all about mastering your timing. Keeping your eyes on the odds is essential as this will allow you to capitalise on any good swings. You should also use your knowledge of a sport to know when a good time to pull the trigger is.

For example, if a football match is 0-0 and the statistics are leaning towards one team winning, you should try and hold off as long as possible on this in order to get the best odds available. Of course, if you wait too long then you might lose your chance, but that’s all part of the fun.

Use live streams

Watching an event unfold in real time is one of the best ways to enjoy an in-play event. All of the bookmakers I have listed offer live streams of selected events, with some offering more than others. Seeing an event unfold, as opposed to just reading text commentary, can give you a much better idea of what is happening and help you make a more informed decision.

Read statistics

Almost all of the best betting sites will offer up to the second statistics of events. Teaching yourself how to analyse statistics for different sports will be hugely advantageous for in-play betting. This can help give you an idea of what could happen next and help you get ahead of the bookies.

Q&A session about the UK live betting

Here, I’ll answer the biggest burning questions you might have if you want to place a live sports bet online.

1. Which sports have in-play betting?

The majority of sports will offer in-play betting markets for punters – you will find live betting for basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, tennis, MMA, rugby, snooker, darts, volleyball, handball, even niche options like curling, table tennis, water polo, auto racing, and futsal; if there’s a sport out there, odds are there’s a platform offering live wagers for it.

The toughest sports to place in-play bets on are horse racing and dog racing. This is because the events only tend to last for a matter of seconds and the option to bet in-play is very quickly suspended. Football, boxing, and combat sports are among the most popular in-play betting options. You can also find plenty of cricket betting sites.

Some bookies may even allow in-play betting on novelty and TV markets. The Academy Awards, for example, may allow betting up until a few minutes before a result is read out. Likewise, popular reality shows like Strictly Come Dancing and Britain’s Got Talent may also have live odds.

2. Can I cash out an in-play bet?

Yes. If you were to place an in-play bet and you sense that the bet might not come in or you are happy with what the bookies are offering, then you may be able to cash out. Of course, not all in-play bets will have a cash-out option, especially if you have placed an in-play bet where the result may become immediately apparent.

3. Which bookies have the best in-play betting offers?

Many of the bookies I have listed offer great in-play betting offers to their players. In my experience, bet365 is the most consistent across the board and regularly has price boosts and other offers available for players. Paddy Power is another site that tends to offer great bonuses, especially for football and horse racing. If you want enhanced odds, kwiff is right up there, with the Supercharged Cash Out bonus being a favourite among bettors.

Final verdict on live betting sites

Betting in play can be a great way to maximise your online sports betting experience. The live betting game is always being improved upon, with operators finding new ways to engage punters with bonus offers and other in-play features. In-play betting can be an exciting way to bet and enjoy a bit of sporting action at the same time. As always though, I encourage readers to gamble responsibly.

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Max Verstappen has crude two-word response to critics after Lewis Hamilton crash, tense radio messages and night of sim racing

Robert Calcutt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:54:00 +0000

Max Verstappen was sent off the track in a collision with Lewis Hamilton late on in the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Oscar Piastri claimed his maiden victory but with seven laps remaining, Hamilton and his long-term rival were involved in one of the race’s most dramatic moments.

Verstappen told anyone who didn’t like what they heard on the radio where to go

Getty

Verstappen went to take the inside on the first corner but was clipped by the Mercedes man, with his back-left wheel being sent into the air.

He was then forced off the track and dropped down to fifth in the standings, with a yellow flag called following the incident.

Verstappen claimed that Hamilton had moved into his ‘braking zone’, although it was later confirmed that not further action would be taken.

Red Bull engineer Gianpiero Lambiase replied: “I’m not even going to get into a radio fight with the other teams, Max. We’ll let the stewards do their thing. It’s childish on the radio, childish.”

That comment, though, was aimed at Red Bull’s rivals, according to team principal Christian Horner.

Hamilton was on hand to stay third until the end of the race and seal a podium finish, the 200th of his glittering Formula 1 career.

However, Verstappen will likely feel aggrieved on what proved to be a frustrating day for the reigning world champion.

The Dutchman was forced off the track on the first corner after lights out when Lando Norris was forced wide by McLaren teammate Piastri.

Max HITS Lewis!

What is going on in this race? pic.twitter.com/C1zIjTkLfT
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) July 21, 2024

He was able to return to the track in second but then told to hand the position back to Norris, who started on pole.

Verstappen’s incident with Hamilton later on in the race seemed to sum up his afternoon before eventually finishing fifth, with he and his Red Bull team having tense radio conversations.

He was heard at one point saying in response to a suggestion he had pushed too hard on his medium set of tyres in the final stint: “You guys gave me this s*** strategy, OK? I’m trying to rescue what’s left.”

“I don’t think we need to apologise,” the driver said when discussing the bad tempered radio messages. “We just need to do a better job.

“I don’t know why people think you can’t be vocal on the radio. This is a sport. If some people don’t like that, stay home.”

When asked for a response to criticism that he was disrespectful to this team, he said: “They can all f*** off.”

The 26-year-old had also still been awake at 3am playing sim racing, just hours before he was due to race in real life.

Verstappen went for the overtake but was caught by Hamilton

@SkySportsF1 X

He was sent off the track and down into fifth

@SkySportsF1 X

Former F1 driver Nico Rosberg, speaking to Sky Sports, thought that was disappointing, pointing out the professionalism shown by Lando Norris for being more regimented with sleep.

He said: “I was quite impressed, actually, because he has learned how to become a more professional athlete. When he started F1, especially against Ricciardo, he wasn’t really trying to be perfect as an athlete. Last night his bedtime was 11:05, not 11:00, 05. Wake up was 8:05, and breakfast was already set, like exactly what to eat. So he was hyper-professional, which was nice to know.

“At the same time, in contrast, you have Verstappen, who until 3:00 a.m. last night was sim-racing. That’s a bit disappointing, isn’t it? It just shows that he’s too used to his ease of domination.”

Hamilton took third behind Norris in second and Piastri first for a McLaren one-two – their first since 2021 – but their victory wasn’t short of drama either.

Piastri took the lead off Norris at the start of the race and it looked as though he was heading towards an easy victory.

However, McLaren offered to send the latter into the pits before him and therefore undercut the race leader.

Piastri was all smiles as he took in the acclaim for what was his first Grand Prix win

Getty

This was McLaren’s first one-two since the 2021 Italian Grand Prix

Getty

They asked Norris to hand the position back to Piastri several times as they headed into the final laps.

Norris was then reminded of his responsibility to the team with his engineer, Will Joseph, heard reminding him to ‘remember every Sunday morning meeting’ and ‘I tried to protect you’.

He was also told that “the way to win a championship is with the team – you’re going to need Oscar and you’re going to need the team”.

At one point, Joseph had to perform a radio check to ensure Norris was getting the messages. “Loud and clear,” came the reply.

Norris argued that Piastri would have to catch him before he would let him by but all the time he was extending his lead. Eventually, with two laps to go, he let him pass.

“I was going to wait until the last corner, last lap. But they said if there was a safety car all of a sudden, then I couldn’t let Oscar go through and it would have made me look like a bit of an idiot and I was like, fair point, so I let him go two laps to go.

“You can make of it what you will, of what you hear and what you think you know, but I know I was always going to give it back unless they changed their mind and they didn’t, so all good.”

Safe betting sites – Most trusted UK bookies 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:50:00 +0000

Join me as I go through the safest betting apps for UK, and also share some tips on how to bet safely online.

Online safety has never been more of an issue than now, so I have rounded up and tested the safest betting sites in the UK and put them all in one place. Here you go:

My top-rated trusted UK betting sites

A closer look at the safest betting sites & apps

1. Safest betting site chosen by us : BetUK

BetUK covers all of the bases for me regarding customer well-being and overall safety. It uses state-of-the-art security features to make sure that all personal information is kept safe. It offers an extensive collection of resources for those who may need support with their gambling habits. The site even holds a remote bookmakers license from Revenue Commissioners for Ireland.

As well as being secure, BetUK is also a brilliant bookmaker, offering a big selection of betting markets and free bets for players to take advantage of.

Highlights
Excellent KYC policy
State-of-the-art security and encryption
Range of responsible gambling tools
Huge range of betting markets

Bet at BetUK

2. Runner-up: bet365

bet365 is one of the most well-known brands on the planet. When I signed up and made my first deposit everything ran smoothly. What really stood out for me was the responsible gambling section where bettors can find helpful tips to stay in control of their betting.

Highlights
Top encryption tools
Safe banking methods
Easy-to-use app

Bet at bet365

3. BetVictor

BetVictor is one of the most secure bookmakers on the market. The operator uses SSL encryption technology to ensure the safety of all data and transactions.

I felt safe with the two-factor authentication system which provided an added layer of security, ensuring enhanced safety measures on mobile devices. Something, I also found out is that BetVictor also has a dedicated anti-fraud team.

Highlights
Two-factor authentication
128-bit SSL encryption technology
Brilliant customer service

Bet at BetVictor

4. Parimatch

Parimatch is a recent entry into the market, and before testing, I hadn’t encountered them before. I was pleasantly surprised by the safety features offered and the betting experience.

Along with a licence from the UKGC, the site is also covered by the Government of Gibraltar and the GBGA. Parimatch also offers some of the best responsible gambling support in the industry.

Highlights
Multiple licenses
Competitive odds
Secure payment methods

Bet at Parimatch

5. Spreadex

Spreadex is my chosen betting exchange site, with the operator offering some of the most competitive lay-betting markets around (believe me I have checked)

As well as having a licence to provide betting services in the UK, Spreadex is also supported by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Highlights
Supported by the Financial Conduct Authority
Excellent exchange odds
Third-party certificates

Bet at Spreadex

How I rank betting apps for safety

Knowing how to identify a safe sports-betting site is a skill that all punters have. When ranking betting sites here are the criteria that are most important to me.

Licence: When you sign up for a new bookie, the first thing you should check is its licence. All sites providing betting services in the UK should be licensed by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). This information should be clearly on display (Usually found in the website footer). Rest assured all of the sites I have listed are fully licensed by the UKGC.
Security features: When testing betting sites I always look at the security features on offer like two-factor authentication.
Transparency: All the providers I have listed provide clear terms & conditions when it comes to offers and payments.
Anti-fraud measures: Many of the top bookmakers will have anti-fraud teams dedicated to stopping fraudsters from scamming their players. With fewer operators, scams can be quite ubiquitous. Thankfully, the ones I tested all have anti-fraud teams in place.

Bet safely. BeGambleAware.org - please play responsibly.Bet safely. 18+ BeGambleAware.org – please play responsibly.[/caption]

Safest betting method. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

Why you should only bet on safe betting sites

There are plenty of reasons you should avoid a shady bookmaker. The two biggest ones are your money and your details. Betting with an unlicensed bookmaker could lead to your money going missing or your details and data being sold to third parties.

What makes this worse, is that if you are using an unlicensed operator, you will not be able to dispute any of these issues. Betting with a UKGC-licensed bookmaker ensures that you have a governing body that you can contact to tackle any disputes that may arise.

Luckily, the UK has one of the most secure betting markets in the world. The UKGC has strict guidelines and a zero-tolerance approach to any wrongdoing. By choosing a betting app that is licensed and regulated by the UKGC, you know that you can deposit your money and bet without worrying about where it is going to end up. Being able to gamble safely ensures not only the protection of your data but also that you can have a stress-free experience.

Even if a sportsbook app offers all the sports promotions and betting markets for sports like Premier League football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, horse racing, etc., it won’t be worth your time if it doesn’t have a UK Gambling Commission license, ensuring people are covered from the legal side of things.

The same rules apply with casino gambling sites that double as sportsbooks and vice-versa: Whether you’re playing poker, slots, bingo, craps, blackjack, roulette, keno, lottery games, or betting on any sport found on a bookie’s betting market list, check the reviews to ensure a gambling site is legit, has a good reputation, and has the UKGC’s verification.

Reviews of the most trusted UK betting sites

I have reviewed every bookmaker that I recommended on this page thoroughly. Read more about some of the sportsbooks we trust the most:

Q&A session about safe betting in the UK

Let’s answer the most important questions British punters have about ensuring their bets are placed in a safe environment.

1. How can I keep my betting account safe?

All of the betting apps we have listed here are safe and secure and hold licenses from the UKGC. However, there are still steps that bettors can take to ensure their account is kept safe.

Firstly, make sure your password is secure. Choosing password123 probably isn’t the best way to protect your betting account if you were to lose your phone or computer. Going for something that is a mix of numbers, letters, and special characters is the best advice we can give. Even better, get hold of a password generator and manager to deal with this for you. Updating your password every 90 days is also a smart move.

If the app offers it, we always recommend using two-factor authentication. This will require you to enter another code or answer a question before you can access your account. You can also add this to the depositing option on a lot of apps.

Finally, we recommend not saving your financial data in the app. If your phone is lost and someone manages to get into your account, you don’t want them to have instant access to your card or e-wallet. Inputting your information each time can be laborious, but it is one of the smartest ways to protect your money.

2. How can I check my online betting account balance safely?

Checking your account balance is a quick and easy process. All you need to do is log in to your sports betting app and click the display balance button. This is typically located in the top corner. Most of the bookmakers we have listed will have the option to hide your account balance. We recommend taking this, as having your balance on display, especially in public, can attract a lot of attention.

3. Is it safe to bet when using public WiFi?

While all of the betting apps we have recommended use SSL encryption technology to prevent hackers, we do recommend that bettors approach using public Wi-Fi with caution. Many of the early-day concerns about public Wi-Fi have vanished but there is still an argument that you are more at risk when using a public network than a private one.

It should also be noted that some public Wi-Fi may not allow players to access casinos or bookmakers.

4. Which payment methods are the safest to use when betting?

All of the payment methods you will find on the bookies apps we have listed are safe and secure. The payment method a player chooses to use will come down to personal preference. For example, some players may prefer to use an e-wallet like PayPal over debit card options, as they don’t want to share their banking details directly with an operator.

Just because all of the payment methods are safe, doesn’t mean that players shouldn’t take some precautions. We recommend that players don’t save their financial data in their betting accounts. This ensures that you will not have your funds taken if someone else gets into your account. What’s more, pay attention to which payment restrictions apply for bonuses, as you often won’t be able to claim a deposit bonus using e-wallets, and this will also limit your withdrawal options.

5. What should I do if I think my betting account has been hacked?

If you think your betting account has been hacked, you should contact your betting company immediately. They will be able to provide you with all of the information you need regarding log-ins and money transfers.

We also recommend contacting your bank straight away if you have concerns about money being taken out of your account. It is also a good idea to remove any cards or financial information linked to your account. If you feel as though you are unsafe, then closing your account and starting a new one is also a good option.

Summary – stay safe when gambling online

Monitoring your safety and security when betting online can feel like a bit of a minefield, but that doesn’t have to be the case. There are plenty of top online bookmakers in the UK that offer a safe and secure experience to their punters. The operators we have listed in this guide all adhere to UKGC guidelines and provide a safe environment for their customers to bet in.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Laura Woods announces she’s pregnant in heartwarming post with Love Island star partner

Robert Calcutt — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:48:00 +0000

Former talkSPORT Breakfast Laura Woods has announced she is pregnant.

Affectionately known as ‘Woodsy’, the sports broadcaster has been in a relationship with former Love Island contestant Adam Collard since last year and confirmed they are expecting their first child in a heartwarming Instagram post.

Woods has announced she is pregnant on Instagram

@laurawoodsy Instagram

With her French bulldog looking on, Woods posted an image of an ultrasounds with the caption alongside a love heart reading: “Hey, baby.”

Her happy news comes weeks after she suffered a nasty facial injury from a freak accident and she pulled out of hosting Oleksandr Usyk’s win over Tyson Fury.

Woods, 37, took to Instagram to praise Collard, 28, “[For being] my hero that day, acting so quickly and not leaving my side since and to his family for taking care of me in a time when I was petrified.”

She was back on TV screens at Euro 2024 and has a busy summer ahead as she heads back across the Channel, this time to Paris for the Olympics.

Woods announced she will be presenting for Discovery Plus at this summer’s Games, which are also on talkSPORT.

As well as this she will appear on Eurosport, who are owned by Warner Bros Discovery, and anchor their daily evening show ‘Bonsoir Paris’ at 9pm.

Once the Olympics have concluded, Woods looks set to return to football presenting duties with TNT Sports ahead of the new football season.

Collard came to fame by appearing on series four of Love Island, which aired in 2018 and was won by Dani Dyer and Jack Fincham.

She shared the exciting news with her partner Collard

@laurawoodsy Instagram

He was dumped early on having coupled up with Zara McDermott and he later entered the villa again in 2022. Since October, though, his relationship with Woodsy has been public knowledge.

They have appeared numerous times on each other’s social media profiles.

Explaining how they began talking, Collard revealed he had messaged her on Instagram.

“I’d followed her on Instagram because I’d seen a Lionesses game or something like that and then I DMd her because she put like a funny meme on her story,” he said.

“I will hold my hands up, yes I acknowledge that even though she’s had my life about this a lot of times.”

Betting apps – Top 15 Best mobile betting sites in the UK 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:45:00 +0000

With so many sports betting apps on the UK market, I can easily see how the average punter would find it difficult to choose among them.

For one thing, the betting world is constantly evolving, and bookmakers are always offering new and exciting features to draw bettors in, and that goes double for apps.

Don’t worry though – I am here to help. Below, you’ll find my curated list of the best betting apps available to bettors right now, based on my analysis of their key features to find the best experience for your mobile device.

Best sports betting apps – Top iOS and Android bookies

Take a look at my list of mobile apps with the best user experience and betting bonuses for players:

How I ranked the best betting apps: My criteria

I used a set list of criteria to determine which were the best sports betting apps in the UK. These factors are based on my research and experience as a veteran bettor, as well as tests conducted on a range of mobile phones. Therefore, I ranked each sports app listed here based on the following:

Usability: To start with, I analyzed the experience of accessing and using each sports betting app. This included how easy it was for me to download, sign-up, deposit and place my first bet, as well as the overall user experience.
Licensing: I checked that each of the sports betting apps listed was licensed and regulated by the UKGC. This ensures the safety of my readers.
Range of markets: All of the betting apps I have recommended provide punters with an extensive range of markets covering different sports and events. Even more so, I looked for mobile bookies that provided consistent market diversity across sports. Still, if you’re not into betting on the most popular sports, you’ll have to check if the bookie has your favourite sport or race on offer and whether the welcome sports bets apply to that sport.
Competitive odds: The best betting apps on my list all offer up-to-the-minute odds for all bettable events. In other words, you can rest easy knowing you won’t find better odds elsewhere. Fans of “The Beautiful Game” will be guaranteed to find competitive football odds, for example.
Range of payment methods: It goes without saying that players need to be able to get their money in and out of their betting accounts with ease. I checked the number of payment methods that the sites have available and have judged them accordingly. I prioritized operators with fast withdrawals, too, so you won’t have to wait too long after bet settlement.
Bonus offers: Everyone loves a good bonus offer, and I’m no different. Be it enhanced odds, cash-out options, or free bets, I ensured the bonus sections of all of the bookies I recommended have only the creme de la creme of bonuses and promos for new and existing customers.

Get the best odds guaranteed offers here

A rundown of the best UK betting apps 2024

The best betting apps I recommend

1. bet365

From what I’ve seen so far on the market, bet365 offers one of the best sports betting apps in the UK. I found quite a few betting markets, an assortment few operators can compete with. I could also bet on many live events throughout the year and had access to a conveyor belt of exciting promotions to take advantage of.

One of the features that won me over offered by the company is its Bet Builder. This allowed me to build my bets and combine odds from across different events and markets.

Pros
Thousands of live events are available
A comprehensive selection of sports and markets
Bet-Builder and other unique features
Huge football markets
Low minimum deposits

Cons
Constant updates can hinder the experience

Bet at bet365

2. William Hill

As you probably know, William Hill is one of the oldest and most established bookmakers in the UK. When I gave it my patronage, the company surprised me pleasantly by constantly innovating, and I particularly liked features like Acca Freedom Insurance, BYO Freedom, and #YourBet. These specials made it stand out as one of the industry’s best, in my opinion.

On top of this, I could watch plenty of live streams for ongoing games and races, while I bet on one of the most impressive selections of betting markets anywhere in the world.

Pros
Innovative betting features
A huge array of markets
Stylish and user-friendly design
Range of promotions
Plenty of banking options

Cons
Limited customer service options

Bet at William Hill

3. Unibet

I’ve always known Unibet as a leading bookie, and I was pleased to see they followed this success with one of the best sports betting apps in the UK. I was able to access an array of sports betting markets, as well as a selection of promotions and bonuses to take advantage of. Had I gotten bored of sports betting, Unibet also would have had me covered with apps for its different verticals, including poker and casino.

Unibet’s welcome offer for new bettors rewarded me with valuable options on both its sportsbook markets and casino vertical. As a new customer, I got money back on my initial sports bet (it could’ve been placed on all sportsbook markets), as well as a bonus token to use in Unibet’s casino section.

Pros
User-friendly design
Range of regularly updated promotions
Tons of live streams

Cons
Different apps for different verticals can be confusing

Bet at Unibet

4. BetVictor

BetVictor is one of the most user-friendly sports betting apps I’ve ever seen. I liked everything, from its slick design that makes it easy to use for first-time users, to just how many options I had for betting on all sorts of sports and events.

Obviously, BetVictor offers a big range of sports betting markets to back up its sports variety. The selection of prop bets available on football games left the biggest impression on me, but I was also excited to see a fairly strong esports section, something many UK bookies are lagging behind on.

Pros
Simple interface
Big selection of football betting markets
A great choice for those who enjoy esports
Plenty of customer information services

Cons
Limited live streams compared to competitors

Bet at BetVictor

5. Paddy Power

Paddy Power’s sports betting app scores highly across my proverbial board. I loved its simple but sleek design and found it a great spot for those interested in football and horse racing in particular. If you like races, as I do, this operator usually has several offers on display for horse racing fans.

Like the other apps I included on this list, Paddy Power has sought to make itself stand out with some competitive content, including a unique fantasy-sports-style promotion.

Pros
Competitive odds
Unique fantasy-sports-themed promotion
Emphasis on sports betting and horse racing markets
Regularly updated selection of promotions

Cons
Some markets are not as in-depth as competitors
Not as many features as some of its competitors

Bet at Paddy Power

6. Coral

As I’m sure it is for you, Coral is one of the most recognizable betting brands in the UK for me. I grew up surrounded by the company’s huge high-street presence, and it has managed to bring that customer-focused betting experience to mobile users, based on what I’ve seen from its app.

As a customer, I could enjoy a range of great markets, with the horse racing odds immediately catching my eye. The selection of football-based bonuses was also a huge plus for me, as it will be for a lot of customers.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention, one of the key features of the Coral App – the #YourCall option. This allows players to request odds on their events.

Pros
Recognizable brand
#YourCall and other great features
Lots of information available for horse racing and football

Cons
Not as many markets as some bookies

Bet at Coral

7. Ladbrokes

Another high-street giant that made my list is Ladbrokes. Ladbrokes is one of the biggest betting brands in the UK, and I can honestly say it offers a top-quality mobile betting experience.

I found myself spoiled for choice with this veteran operator, which provides a range of great selection of sports betting markets, as well as a range of novelty betting markets including politics and entertainment.

Another feature I thought was great when I used the Ladbrokes app, was being able to connect bets made in-store with the online app, allowing me to cash out paper bets.

Pros
Ability to connect in-store bets with the mobile app
A huge array of bonus features
Competitive odds, especially for football

Cons
Admin fees for non-active accounts can be applied

Bet at Ladbrokes

How to choose the best sport betting app. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please Play Responsibly

More expert bookmaker reviews

I leave no stone unturned when reviewing bookmakers and casinos, and neither do my colleagues. Take a look at our reviews of some of the best betting sites in the UK:

What to look for in a sports betting app

Competitive odds

When I’m comparing them, one of the biggest factors that can set an app aside from the rest of the pack is the quality of the odds. With so many bookies covering major events, the ones who can make themselves stand out with quality odds are going to have an advantage in my – and any other – book.

Betting market variety

Another key factor is ensuring that the bookie you register with covers the sports you want to bet on and has all of your desired markets. If it’s a football market you’re after, be sure to read my colleague’s guide to the best football betting sites to help inform your choice. You can place a money bet on anything from the Premier League to the Bundesliga with top-rated operators – as long as you’re eligible to sign up with them.

Otherwise, your sportsbook of choice should have all the biggest sports and sporting events included, like tennis, boxing, basketball, rugby, cricket, baseball, hockey, golf, etc. Simply choose the sporting event you bet on and deposit the bonus bet before the expiry date.

Security

Above all else, I want my readers who become players to feel safe when using an online bookie, and that extends to making bets on their app. The gambling apps I have listed here are all up to speed with the latest and best security developments. This includes the use of SSL encryption software, and in many cases, two-factor authentication for security purposes. Most of these bookies are listed among ours safe betting sites, so you can confidently use them with your browser as well.

Modern features

The sports betting world is incredibly competitive, especially when it comes to football and other top sports. As such, having useful features such as cash-out and boosted bets, as well as benefits such as acca insurance (money back on your bet if one of the legs of your accumulator fails) is something that can make one operator stand above the rest. In-play betting sites are also in high demand as they add an extra layer of excitement.

Bet calculators

Having access to a free bet calculator on sports betting apps is incredibly convenient, especially if you hate maths. This tool calculates the potential payout, risks, and stakes of a wager, saving you time and effort. With just a few clicks, the calculation is done, and the bettor can decide whether to take the risk or not. This feature makes it easier to make informed decisions and maximize potential payouts while minimizing risks.

Live streaming and coverage

There is nothing more exciting than watching the action unfold when you have a bet riding on it. All of the sports betting apps I have listed here provide top-quality streams of major events. If they don’t have an actual stream of an event, they will still offer live coverage in some capacity or another.

Customer support

As well as feeling secure, I also like to feel like the operator has my back in case I have an issue on their mobile platform. The top UK sports betting apps I listed here all offer top-quality, around-the-clock customer service to help you every step of the way.

If the customer service agents also help me with SMS verification or any other part of the sign-up process, explain payment restrictions for bonuses, and provide any type of support and issue resolution I might need, they’re good customer service agents in my book.

Betting bonuses

Bonuses offering bet tokens if you make a qualifying 1st deposit, bonus bets based on your first bet stake, specials targeting racing bets, price boosts, etc. are commonplace with all household name bookmakers now.

However, an operator will stand out to me if they have mobile-specific promotions, as well, offering to up my winnings on say, a racing pool bet made on my phone, or a partial refund of singles or placement bet losses made on mobile devices paid out to my balance. This bonus amount is rarely spectacular, but it might just cover your betting needs for a specific leg of a bet, or bets on point spreads, for example.

Of course, as always, make sure you check the eligibility requirements of every offer, as well as its min odds, set markets, time limits, payment exclusions, whether returns can be cashed out immediately, etc., before opting in.

Other bonuses

A good betting platform often has weekly and even daily promotions, but if you need more than just a football app for wagering and want to try out casino games, then look for operators that also offer casino bonuses. If you like games like poker, roulette and blackjack, bingo, scratch cards, and even slot games and jackpot slots, you’ll be able to find an operator for you.

What are the common payment methods supported on betting sites and apps?

A bookmaker can offer everything, but if you can’t get your money in and out of your account with ease, then it is a waste of time. Thankfully, most top online bookmakers make it nice and easy to deposit your stake and withdraw funds with various payment types.

The most common method for depositing money is using Visa or Mastercard debit cards. It is important to note that players based in the UK are unable to use credit cards to make deposits for any gambling purposes, but that’s about it in terms of consistent payment exclusions. Debit card payments are also rarely part of payment method exclusions within sportsbook bonus terms, so you should have no trouble bypassing restrictions and getting your hands on those free bet credits as soon as you make a qualifying bet with a debit card deposit.

On mobile devices, it is also common to be able to use Apple Pay or Google Pay to make speedy deposits and power any betting transaction. These payment options can offer convenience and are also one of the fastest deposit methods available. Check out my co-writer’s guide to bookmakers that accept Google Pay.

Talking of speed, any betting app worth its salt will be able to process withdrawal requests with minimal delays. That’s why e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are also extremely common on sports betting sites and their mobile counterparts. These allow players to make a deposit using a third party. Players who prefer to not enter their details often find that this is one of the best ways to deposit cash. E-wallets also tend to be one of the quickest methods for withdrawing funds from online sportsbooks.

Find the best PayPal betting sites here

Q&A session about UK betting apps

1. Which betting app has the best cash out?

Almost all of the betting apps I have listed offer players the chance to cash out their wagers. Having a good cashout option can be a lifesaver when you have a sense that a result that is currently going your way is about to turn on you.

The best cash-out options tend to be on William Hill and bet365. These two apps both offer up-to-the-second updates and keep you right in the thick of the action. As such, you can time your cash-outs really well and can quickly turn a potentially losing situation into a potentially profitable one.

2. What is the fastest betting app?

In my experience, William Hill is the quickest of the sports betting apps listed. However, this is very marginal, with all of the bookies offering a top-quality mobile betting experience, both on iPhone and Android smartphones, from registration to cashing out. The operator has a really easy user interface that allows instant access to depositing options and sports betting markets.

In terms of payments, it will depend on which method bettors choose to use, with debit cards and PayPal being among the most efficient available.

3. Are betting apps free to use?

Yes. Betting apps are free to download in both the App Store and the Google Play Store. Of course, if players want to win any money at an online bookmaker, then they are going to need to deposit their funds and bet with them.

4. Do the best betting apps come from the best bookies?

Yes, and no. Being one of the best betting sites has its own criteria and ranking that I apply to review them, while I use a different methodology to review the best betting apps. Meaning that, if you are deemed good enough to be called one of the best betting apps, you won’t necessarily be called the best operator as well. The same thing applies in the other way. However, some operators, like BetVictor and bet365 have made it onto both of the lists.

5. Are bonuses still available on sports betting apps?

Yes. If a bookmaker is offering a bonus on account opening, you will be able to claim it on both their desktop site and their mobile app, but only once per IP address. In some cases, operators may run a bonus specifically for players on mobile devices, so be sure to check out the promotions page when you first download the app.

This is true for welcome bonuses and no deposit-free bet offers, as well as betting offers for existing customers, so don’t worry, you won’t be missing out!

Also, if mobile betting sites also double as casino operators, you might be able to get your hands on a casino bonus to use on slots, bingo, table and live dealer games, etc. Still, these bonus funds or free spins will probably fall under wagering requirements you’ll have to fulfill (e.g., play the bonus and your resulting spin winnings at least 40 times before you can cash it out).

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Xander Schauffele matches Rory McIlroy feat and completes 42-year first with historic Open win

Sean O'Brien — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:42:00 +0000

Xander Schauffele delivered a golfing masterclass to win the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon.

The American claimed a two-shot victory over Justin Rose and Billy Horschel to grab the second major of his career – and the calendar year.

Two months after making his major breakthrough in the US PGA Championship at Valhalla, Schauffele claimed another major at Royal Troon

GETTY

His dad Stefan was full of emotion after seeing him crowned champion

GETTY

He becomes the first player to win the PGA Championship and The Open in the same season since Rory McIlroy in 2014.

Schauffele’s victory also secures a clean sweep for Americans at the majors this year following the triumphs of Scottie Scheffler at The Masters and Bryson DeChambeau at the US Open.

But this was arguably the most impressive of all.

A ferocious test in Scotland left some of golf’s biggest names battered and bruised, but Schauffele conquered it with apparent ease.

Under the most intense pressure, the 30-year-old masterfully pieced together every aspect of the game from tee to green to shoot four-under on a back nine where only six other players broke par.

Qualifier Rose started one shot back on Sunday, alongside Schauffele, and his round of 67 was incredible in itself.

The Englishman was millimetres away on a number of putts which could have made for a different story.

But on a day when 65 barely seemed possible, the history books will say world no.3 Schauffele shot one of the all-time great rounds in Open history to win.

Rose came up two shots short in his bid for the Claret Jug

AFP

Besides matching McIlroy, he is the first player since golf legend Jack Nicklaus to shoot 65 in the final round of multiple majors to claim victory.

Schauffele also follows Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth as the third player ever to finish top-eight in all four majors and bag more than one win in the same year.

And he is the first player to win two majors in a year since Brooks Koepka in 2018.

“It’s been quite a journey and I feel very honoured to hear my named called with ‘Open champion’ after it. It’s something I’ve dreamt of for a long time,” Schauffele said at the presentation ceremony as he was joined by his emotional family.

“I wasn’t here in 2016 but I actually watched highlights of Phil (Mickelson) and Henrik (Stenson) to motivate myself – and it paid off this week.

“I’ve been in Scotland for two weeks and you guys (the fans) have made it feel like a second home. I can’t wait to come back.”

“It’s an honour, I’ve always dreamt of doing it,” Schauffele added.

“That walk up 18 truly is the coolest with the yellow leaderboards and the fans and the standing ovation. It really is one of the coolest feelings I’ve ever had in my life.

“I got chills walking down and quickly had to zap myself back into focus because the tournament wasn’t over yet. I can’t wait to enjoy this with my family.”

The American’s family posed with the Claret Jug on the 18th

GETTY

Schauffele said he had yet to decide what to drink out of the famous trophy, adding: “I’m just curious to see what my dad is going to pick as a first drink to drink out of this.

“He’s going to have to figure out what he wants to put in there because he’s taking the first gulp out of it.”

Completing the top ten, 54-hole leader Horschel finished in a tie for second alongside Rose.

World no.98 Thirston Lawrence led for a while but faded on the back nine to finish fourth.

Russell Henley bagged fifth, one shot and one place in front of 2019 champion Shane Lowry, while Jon Rahm, Scottie Scheffler and Sungjae-Im ended the championship in a tie for seventh on one-under-par.

Unheralded Englishmen Dan Brown and Matthew Jordan completed a fairytale week in a tie for tenth alongside Adam Scott.

Rose admitted to having mixed emotions after his bid to become the first Englishman to win the Open since 1992 came up short.

Sir Nick Faldo was the last but all week, Rose’s name has been close to the top of the leaderboard and he began the day just one off the lead.

He went to the turn in 33 on the final day, twice briefly holding the lead, before he was overpowered by Schauffele over the back nine with his American playing partner posting 31 to his 34.

“I was gutted when I walked off the course and it hit me hard because I was so strong out there today,” Rose said after posting a 67 to finish seven under, two behind the winner.

“I won second place, I won points, I won prizes, FedExCup points, all that stuff too. At that point, you’re being a professional.

“Then I walk 10 steps later and I’m choking back tears.

“But in terms of how I played and the execution of my emotions today, my mindset, I left it all out there. I’m super proud of how I competed.

“The deal I made with myself today was to come off with no regrets.

“Obviously, I’ll have a few more chances but you know that this was a great opportunity and you want to walk off the golf course going ‘Yeah, I didn’t squander that’.

“But I felt super comfortable out there, which the fact that I haven’t really been in contention much this year, that gives me a lot of heart.”

Best no deposit bonuses July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:35:00 +0000

Bonuses are a crucial marketing tool for casinos to attract players, but they also provide an opportunity for players to enjoy free games while still being able to win profits.

No deposit bonuses, in particular, allow you to play real-money games for free at top online casinos. In this article, I will discuss some of the best online casinos that offer no deposit bonuses in 2024.

My top picks for no deposit bonus offers 2024

PokerStars – 100 no deposit free spins + 100% up to £500 and 50 free spins with bonus code FIRST500
MrQ – 5 No deposit spins + 30 free spins on your first deposit with promo code TALKSPORT35!
Hotstreak Slots – 10 no-deposit free spins on Finn and the Swirly Spin
Wild West Wins – 20 free spins on Cowboys Gold no deposit
21 Casino – 21 free spins just for signing up!
PlayGrand – 30 no-deposit bonus spins!

How I rated the best no deposit bonus offers

I rate online casino no deposit offers by looking at vital features that players might overlook when signing up for gambling sites. These features include casino bonuses, customer support services, license status and website user experience.

Other attributes I prioritise when ranking include terms and conditions and wagering requirements.

The cashout limit, which determines how much you can withdraw from your casino account at once, is also an important attribute I consider when rating gambling platforms. It’s a bonus when casinos have a higher cashout limit that doesn’t confine you to high withdrawal limits.

Why you should trust me

I offer a lot of information about casinos with a wealth of knowledge to draw upon. I read every part of casino terms and conditions and test their sites to give you information that you may have missed.

I am a casino gaming expert with years of industry knowledge. It’s how I know what to look for in gambling platforms.

My reviews and recommendations are also 100% based on the test rides I give these platforms, so it’s my personal opinion and experiences that I offer you. You can be assured of reliable information from me at all times.

Best casino bonus. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

An in-depth look at the top no-deposit bonus offers

The following casinos offer a no deposit bonus for new players. Here are just some of my favourite choices below.

What is a no-deposit bonus?

No deposit bonuses are incentives that online casinos offer that don’t require you to deposit to play games. With these offers, you can win profits without wagering your money.

What are the advantages of a no deposit bonus?

Besides requiring no deposit to access them, no deposit bonuses also allow players to get familiar with titles. Here’s how it works.

No deposit bonuses allow you to play a game for free and decide if it’s worth depositing real money on.

The advantage of no deposit bonuses is that you can win jackpots. Getting acquainted with games using no-deposit bonuses gives you plenty of practice time to sharpen your strategies and tactics, which might eventually help you win larger stakes.

It also eliminates emotional gambling from casino gaming – you don’t have to worry about losing or winning because your money isn’t at stake.

What are the disadvantages of a no deposit bonus?

Its major disadvantage is that it offers little reward compared to a welcome bonus. In most cases, you lose your chance at a welcome bonus, which is usually bigger, when you claim a no deposit bonus.

Another disadvantage is that most no deposit bonuses come with very low cashout limits and maximum winnings limits, mostly between $100 and $200. This means that even if you win the jackpot, there’s a big chance that you won’t be getting all your money.

Most popular types of no deposit bonus offers

There are usually three types of no deposit bonuses that online casinos offer – these are listed below.

Free cash

These are also known as free credits, which you can use to wager on games without depositing any money. The casino is essentially giving you free cash to wager on games and probably earn some profit from it.

Free spins

This is mainly for slot games. Usually, online casinos use these free spins to promote or test run a new release, but they also offer it for popular slots. You can try out free spins on various slot titles unless your casino states otherwise.

Free plays

Free plays are time rewards. Online casinos offering this variation of no deposit bonus give players a specified amount of time to play different casino games while providing a set amount of chips to play them.

Cashback

A no deposit cashback bonus returns a percentage of losses incurred by users without requiring an initial deposit. Eligible participants receive cashback over a set period, subject to terms like maximum limits and wagering requirements.

Here’s how to claim your no deposit bonus

Claiming your no deposit offers is simple. You only have to go through these processes:

Visit your preferred online casino.
Create an account.
Verify your account and the casino will notify you of your eligibility for the no deposit bonus. Many come with a no deposit bonus code, while others only require that you claim them.
Contact their customer support team, if necessary, to activate your bonus or reject the offer.
Wait for the approval of the support team
Claim your no deposit bonus.

No deposit bonus tips

No deposit bonuses are one of the best ways to enjoy the best online casinos, as you can play with no risk and a chance to win real money. However, there are still a few tips customers should remember when looking for this type of bonus, such as reading the terms and conditions, and checking the wagering requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

Read no deposit bonus terms and conditions

The first thing you should do at a no deposit casino is read the terms and conditions, which explain all the details about the offer. These include the bonus amounts, who can claim a promotion, how long the offers are valid, and other restrictions – e.g. wagering requirements. You can learn more about the latter below:

Keep wagering requirements in mind

The wagering requirements refer to the number of times you must bet your bonus before you can convert winnings made with it to real money. For example, if you get a bonus with a value of £10 and a 50x wagering requirement, you’ll have to bet £500 before you can withdraw any winnings.

If you fail to complete them within the time limit, you’ll lose your bonus funds. This isn’t the only requirement to keep in mind, though. No deposit casino bonuses also have other restrictions, including time limits, minimum deposits, maximum bets, and payment methods.

Eligible games

Unfortunately, not all games can be used to complete the wagering requirements. The most common restrictions include live casino games, such as roulette, blackjack, baccarat, as well as bingo and jackpot slots.

Some casinos may instead restrict the wagering contribution for these games – i.e. only a fraction of your bets’ value will count towards the wagering requirements. The percentage will typically range from 5% to 20%.

In addition, some bonuses may only apply to specific slots and exclusive games, making it essential to read the terms and conditions before getting started.

Expiry date

There are two expiry dates to remember – the time players have to claim the bonus and the time to complete the wagering requirements. You’ll lose access to your bonus if you don’t get it before the expiry date or fail to meet the wagering bonuses in time.

Both limits can be found in the terms and conditions. After claiming your bonus, you’ll have anywhere from a few days up to one or two months to meet the requirements. The time limits tend to be stricter regarding no deposit bonuses, such as the need to claim it within a day of registering.

Minimum deposit

This one may seem counterintuitive, as no deposit bonuses don’t require adding funds to your account. However, some casinos may require players to deposit before withdrawing the funds won through a no deposit bonus. If that’s the case, it’ll be mentioned in the terms and conditions.

In addition, some gambling sites only offer no deposit bonuses to players who previously made a deposit or claimed the casino’s welcome bonus. In these cases, the minimum deposit may also apply to be eligible for a no deposit bonus later.

Max betting

Online casinos also limit how much you can bet while a promotion is active, and no deposit bonuses aren’t an exception. The maximum bet is usually capped at £5, although that can vary depending on your bonus.

The good news is that exceeding the maximum bet doesn’t automatically void your no deposit bonus. Instead, you’ll get a message saying you can’t place bets over the maximum amount. This is done to prevent players from completing bonuses in one go.

Other limitations

Now that I’ve covered the most common bonus restrictions, it’s time to look at other limitations that can appear when trying to claim a no deposit casino bonus.

Payment methods

Most UK casinos prevent players from claiming bonuses with Skrill and Neteller payments. They could create multiple e-wallets without verifying their identity, leading to bonus abuse.

Maximum winnings

Many sites limit how much players can win while playing with a no deposit bonus. The limit varies by casino. You can find more details in the terms and conditions.

Do not play at shady or rogue no deposit bonus casinos

You know the saying: “if it looks too good to be true, it probably is”? This also applies to online casinos and no deposit bonuses. Shady gambling sites try to attract unsuspecting players by offering unrealistic no deposit bonuses.

Even if these offers don’t require a deposit, claiming them can still be dangerous. Some rogue casinos try to get players to add excessive funds to their accounts to claim their winnings, while others will outright sell player data to the highest bidder.

It always helps to be aware of your rights as a casino player, when you are playing at legitimate and licensed online venues.

Casino games with the best no deposit bonuses

Multiple casino games became popular throughout the years due to their compatibility with bonuses. Here are some of the best games you can play with a no deposit bonus:

Starburst – Several online casinos in the UK offer free spins no deposit bonuses on Starburst, a top-rated slot developed by NetEnt.
Big Bass Bonanza – This fishing-themed game is popular among free spins enthusiasts. It’s by Pragmatic Play, a renowned provider.
Book of Dead – Book of Dead is a popular slot created by Play’n GO. What’s great about this game is that it’s compatible with most free spin no deposit bonuses.

No deposit bonus codes

Claiming a no deposit bonus in the UK can be as easy as entering a promo code when signing up for an account. Many casinos offer bonus codes to stand out from their competitors, giving players a unique chance to win real money prizes. However, other sites allow customers to get started with a no deposit bonus without entering a code.

How to claim no deposit bonus code

Are you looking for a no deposit bonus code? You’re in the right place! Here’s an example of how you can sign up at MrQ to get five no deposit spins using the code TALKSPORT35:

Visit the casino and press “Join Now” to start your registration.
Type your username, email, and password.
Enter your name, birthdate, phone number, and address.
Enter the promo code TALKSPORT35 in the corresponding field.
Read and agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy.
Confirm you’re 18 or over.

Things to look out for when claiming a no deposit bonus

There are several things to look out for when signing up for no deposit bonuses in an online casino. Some of them are:

Legitimacy

Some online casinos offer large and unrealistic bonuses, but in reality, it might be a scam. You can only know this if you check that they’re licensed, and you can do this by going through their ‘About’ page. They must be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, or any other verified regulatory body.

Wagering requirements

Wagering requirements are the clauses attached to your bonus wins. You may need to wager 5x the bonus amount before you can access your win. Many casinos have reasonable requirements, but some don’t, which is why you should read their terms and conditions before playing.

Q&A session about no deposit bonuses in the UK

1. How do I make the most out of no-deposit bonus offers?

You can successfully use your bonus when you’re playing with a goal. For instance, you can use your bonus for practice if you want to understand how a game works to win money.

You can also use it for entertainment if you’re only looking for fun. Ultimately, the best way to enjoy your bonus is to avoid capitalising on the money you could win and focus on the fun you’ll get out of it.

2. Who qualifies for no deposit bonuses?

It depends on the type of bonus. Some no deposit bonuses can only be claimed by players with new accounts, while others are only available to returning customers or players who previously made a deposit. You can quickly learn who can claim a specific deposit bonus by reading the casino’s terms and conditions.

3. Are no deposit bonuses available for existing players?

Yes. Even though they’re not as common as deposit match bonuses for new customers, some online casinos use no deposit bonuses to invite returning players back into the action. The difference is that these can only be claimed by players who previously made a deposit. They also tend to have a higher bonus amount or wagering requirements.

4. Can you combine more no deposit offers?

No. Unfortunately, no deposit bonuses can’t be combined with other offers, such as welcome bonuses. In some instances, claiming more than one offer can even result in your bonus being voided. I recommend reading the terms to verify what happens if you try to claim other promotions while a bonus is active.

5. Where can I find the terms and conditions of the no deposit bonus?

The terms for a no deposit bonus are usually found in the terms and conditions, under the “Bonus” section. However, some casinos have a separate bonus policy covering the different offers and promotions. The terms and conditions and bonus policy can usually be accessed through the links on the site’s footer.

6. What other casino bonuses and promotions can I get?

Whether you’re a new player or an existing one there are usually plenty of bonus offers available for you to choose from. Here are the most common:

Cashback offers
Deposit bonuses
Reload bonuses
Extra spins
Loyalty programs
VIP offers
Free bets
Birthday bonuses

7. Can I win real money with a no deposit bonus?

Yes. No deposit bonuses are used to play real-money games, which makes it possible to win real cash. However, most of these bonuses have wagering requirements that make it difficult to get your winnings out at once.

8. Can I use my no-deposit bonus on any game?

This depends on the casino and the type of no deposit bonuses you’re offered. For instance, the casino might offer free spins on a particular slot game, meaning that you can only access that game with your bonuses.

The best no deposit bonuses are ones where players can use on any table, slot or live casino game of their choice.

9. Can I withdraw my no-deposit bonus?

No. No deposit bonuses can only be used to play casino games. However, you can withdraw your earnings from a win if you meet the wagering requirement. It depends on the terms and conditions.

10. Which online casino has the best no-deposit bonus?

MrQ has the best no deposit offer as it comes with the simplest terms and conditions. In order to claim the offer, you just need to register and confirm your information and complete the age verification. It’s that simple. After that you’ll be credited with five free spins without needing to make a deposit.

My final thoughts on no-deposit bonuses

When considering a no deposit bonus, it’s important to carefully read the terms and conditions to ensure that you understand the requirements and limitations of the offer. This will help you make the most of the bonus and avoid any potential surprises or disappointments. I have carefully selected casinos with some of the best no deposit offers to help you in your search. Take advantage of these offers to enhance your online gambling experience.

About the author

Wayne Goodchild

Wayne has been writing betting content for several years, with an emphasis on finding the best casino bonuses and testing the latest slot games. He’s originally from the UK but has lived all over the world, with Slovenia as his current base.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

I was on Love Island before falling for MMA – now I interview UFC stars and empower women through martial arts

Jordan Ellis — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Kaz Crossley is part of a new wave of MMA reporters.

The reality TV star admits she wasn’t really into combat sports until a few years ago, but now she’s gearing up to cover UFC 304 as an official member of the media.

Kaz will be making her UFC media debut next week

@kazcrossley - instagram

Crossley first became known to the British public when she appeared on season four of ITV’s smash-hit dating show, Love Island, and made it to the final in 2018, which was won by Dani Dyer.

The 29-year-old was catapulted into a celebrity lifestyle after claiming third place with her former partner Josh Denzel, who has also found success in sports presenting.

Crossley had a very different career plan when she first left the Love Island villa.

“Before Love Island, I was a make-up artist,” she told talkSPORT.com.

“I did music videos, and quite a few famous people [like current Love Island host] Maya Jama and [singer] Emeli Sande. I did fashion shows and I was really obsessed with make-up and beauty, and all that stuff.”

After breaking up with Denzel, Crossley wanted to try something new and decided to give Muay Thai a go – now it’s become her favourite thing to do.

Crossley said: “I had seen Muay Thai because my mum is Thai, and I have been to Thailand a lot.

“So, I always seen it and I thought I just wanted to do something different to distract myself.”

Kaz became a celebrity after Love Island

Getty

But then picked up a new hobby and it took her in a different direction

@kazcrossley - instagram

The Manchester-based Londoner shared her training videos with the 1.1 million people who follow her on Instagram, and they loved them.

It didn’t take long for her message requests folder to fill with women looking to get into combat sports, but many of them didn’t feel they had a place where they could train.

So, Crossley created ‘The Combat Collective’, which has become the UK’s premier community for women who want to embrace fight sports.

“I was actually getting good, and people were seeing that,” Kaz explained.

She’s encouraged tons of women to take up combat sports

@kazcrossley - instagram

“A lot of women reached out to me like, ‘I really want to do what you’re doing, but how can I get into Muay Thai?’ That is when I started Combat Collective, which is my women-only Muay Thai community.

“It’s combat sports, but we started predominantly doing Muay Thai. Now I do retreats, classes and courses all over the UK for women only.

“That’s how I got into woman empowerment and women in combat sports stuff. It’s crazy how things just roll and change with what you’re doing in life.”

Crossley is famously friends with PFL star Brendan Loughnane, but she didn’t truly embrace the sport of MMA until she attended her first UFC event in March 2022.

Kaz is already making her mark in MMA

@kazcrossley - instagram

Now she’s the MMA reporter for Title Sports Network and looking forward to covering the UFC’s first event in Manchester since 2016 next weekend.

“Since COVID I started getting into watching MMA,” Crossley said.

“I was obsessed with Muay Thai and then I discovered MMA and was like, ‘Wow! What is this?’

“I went to UFC London, the first one back after they had three years off, and that was just a crazy, crazy experience. That’s when I got obsessed with it.

Next up, she’ll be in media row at UFC 304

UFC

“Now I’m interviewing these fighters and I’ve been a fan of this sport. It might be for long, just the last couple of years, but I’m definitely passionate about it.

“I interviewed Justin Gaethje, and Tom Aspinall – the other day I was at Leon Edwards’ gym.

“It’s crazy because this year I made a vision board of all the things I want to do. I put UFC, and PFL logos and a little microphone there because I just wanted to manifest it and I basically did.

“This is my first time going as media. I’m so excited. I’ve done all the UFC London shows ever since it’s been back, and I’ve gone as a fan.

“I’m still going as a fan, but I’ll be working. I’m super excited.”

The UFC 304 event will be headlined by welterweight champion Edwards against Belal Muhammad. The pair previously met in 2021 but the fight was declared a no contest due to an accidental eye poke which left Muhammad unable to continue.

Aspinall, meanwhile, is taking on Curtis Blaydes in the co-main event and also at the Manchester event, which will begin in the early hours of Sunday morning, is Paddy Pimblett against Bobby Green.

Best new casino sites for July 2024 – New UK online casino guide

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:30:00 +0000

New casino sites appear in the UK with predictable regularity, but which casino site is really worth your time and provides great value for money?

My favourite new UK casino for July

I took a look at some of the top new contenders on the UK casino scene and ranked them. I also prepared a handy guide so you can differentiate between them yourself, along with mini-reviews. By the end, you should have everything you need to make an informed choice about where to play next.

Top new UK casinos for July 2024

Take a look at this top list of online gambling casinos I compiled and start playing your favourite online casino games in a whole new venue:

How I rated the best new online casinos in the UK: My approach

Welcome bonus

In my opinion, welcome bonuses are a casino’s way of helping a new player settle in. They will differ from casino to casino, but all follow a similar blueprint; still, I’ve found new casinos often amp up their initial offers, since they yet have to build a loyal customer base.

Of course, I analysed and compared the welcome bonuses provided by each of the new casinos listed and ranked them accordingly. The things I factored in were, obviously, the bonus amount, the size of the deposit required to claim the bonus, how high the wagering requirement is, and how many games can be used for the wagering contribution.

Existing player offers and promotions

It’s not just new players that need looking after at an online casino, and that also applies to new UK casinos. The best casinos are the ones that offer loyalty bonuses and promotions to their existing customers as well.

All of the new casinos I have listed offer a diverse range of casino bonuses and promotions, and I have taken them all into account when ranking them.

Payout speeds

There is nothing more frustrating than landing a big win at a casino and then having to wait for an age for your winnings to appear in your bank account. I have assessed the payment methods of each of the casinos listed and checked to see which one offers the most efficient ways of getting your money back to you.

Check this overview over fast withdrawal casino sites

Casino games available

Filling up a casino lobby with slot games is easy, but doing it with ones that offer real quality is not. The casinos I have selected for you work with some of the best developers in the iGaming world to offer their players innovative and enjoyable casino games. They also offer reasonable RTP and house edge.

Customer support

If you run into a spot of bother when spinning the reels or at the card table, then you want to know that it will be dealt with efficiently. I have contacted the customer support teams of all of the casinos listed to see what quality of service they offer, and how quick they were to deal with my problems. A significant part of the ranking depends on how responsive the client support team was to my enquiries.

Responsible gambling features

One of the things I’m certain of is that responsible gambling should be at the forefront of every casino’s operations. Casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission have a responsibility towards their players to offer support when needed. I have taken a look through all of the resources available at the new casinos listed and this has influenced my rankings.

Top UK New Casinos: In-Depth Look

Take a look at these casino reviews to see which casinos have the best ratings and which offer the best customer experience. I looked for casinos that offer a range of slots, lottery, and table games such as poker, baccarat, craps, keno, and blackjack.

1. talkSPORT BET

Founding year: 2022
Welcome bonus: 4x £25 deposit bonuses + 25 spins
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, bank transfer

There’s a lot to like about talkSPORT BET, particularly if you’re a sports fan, because you get a direct link to the brand’s radio station. I won’t digress too much, but that is a novel feature worth noting.

In terms of casino gaming, the interface is somewhat simple, but that makes it ideal for mobile devices. This dynamic vibes well with the fact that you can make deposits directly via your mobile using Apple Pay. In fact, depositing players can only get the welcome bonus offer by funding their accounts via a debit card or Apple Pay.

TalkSPORT BET also has an impressive selection of games that includes Football Roulette and Stock Market Live. Sports betting is also available, and I really like the in-house offers, such as the £20,000 raffle.

Pros
Creative and generous promotions
Easy-to-use interface
Has all the latest live casino innovations
Links to talkSPORT sportsbook and radio

Cons
Bonus playthrough could be lower
More table games would be nice

Play at talkSPORT BET

2. Atlantic Spins Casino

Founding year: 2017
Welcome bonus: 150% Bonus up to £150 and 100 Spins
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: BOOK100
Payment methods: Visa debit, bank transfer, Trustly, PayPal, AstroPay, MuchBetter, Skrill, paysafecard

The waters at Atlantic Spins Casino run deep when it comes to slots. There are more than 1,000 slots to choose from, and even though I’d like a few more table games, there’s plenty of action for fans of spins.

The Big Bass Splash series is one of my favourites, and Atlantic Spins has all the latest instalments. You can also take part in Pragmatic Play’s £2 million Drops & Wins promotion at Atlantic Spins.

Finally, this casino has a fair bonus policy. The playthrough is 35x, which is lower than other new online casinos, and newbies get plenty of bonus cash and spins.

Pros
Low playthrough on the welcome bonus
Offers all types of slot games
Daily slot spin giveaways
£2 million in Drops & Wins prize money every month

Cons
Needs more table games
Navigation options could be better

Play at Atlantic Spins

3. Bally UK

Founding year: 2023
Welcome bonus: Deposit and wager £10 to get 30 wager-free spins
Loyalty program: Yes
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, bank transfer

This US gambling brand has been serving customers in one form or another since 1932, so customer service is one of Bally’s main strengths. I spoke to the customer support team during my review because I wanted some info on the loyalty program. The agent went out of their way to help, so I’ll happily tell anyone, particularly gambling newbies, to use Bally UK because I know they’ll be in good hands.

Being honest, Bally UK Casino needs more games. There are 400+ to choose from, and all the main bases are covered, but other new casino brands have more. What I will say, however, is that you can play daily free games when you deposit £10. Add a loyalty program (My Rewards) to the mix, and you’ve got a safe and accessible place to play casino games and claim exclusive bonuses.

Pros
Excellent wager-free spins welcome bonus
Generous loyalty program
Daily free games
Excellent customer service

Cons
Offers fewer games than other UK casinos
Design is lacklustre

Play at Bally UK

4. BetMGM Casino UK

Founding year: 2023
Welcome bonus: 2x deposit match bonuses up to £100 + 100 spins
Loyalty program: Yes
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, PayPal

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: BetMGM has world-class software that looks great and is easy to use. It’s the biggest US gambling brand, and it’s now making a major play in the UK.

One of the main reasons this new UK casino stands out is its exclusive content. Alongside exclusive games from Microgaming and Push Gaming, such as BetMGM Mega Spin and BetMGM Grand Gamble, there are unique in-house promotions.

My favourite is the BetMGM Prize Wheel, which offers exclusive prizes such as trips to Las Vegas. You can also play for in-house progressive jackpots that were worth upwards of £19 million during my review.

Pros
Top-class software
Daily prize giveaways
Exclusive BetMGM-branded games
VIP program with exclusive perks

Cons
VIP program is invite-only
Need more to clear bonuses

Play at BetMGM

5. Slots Royale

Founding year: 2024
Welcome bonus: Deposit £10 to win up to 500 spins
Loyalty program: Yes
Mobile app: No
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, paysafecard, Pay by Mobile

Slots Royale has an interesting welcome package. Instead of a fixed reward, you get a random prize worth up to 500 spins when you deposit £10. The 65x playthrough is too high, but that’s the only wagering restriction I have any real issues with.

Building on the welcome bonus’s unique angle are innovative deposit offers and promotions. I like the fact that you can complete fun tasks to unlock spins on the Mega Bonus Wheel. Another personal highlight is the Winner Winner Chicken Dinner Just Eat Voucher giveaway.

Overall, Slots Royale’s software isn’t great, but it does offer 2,800+ games, including live games from OnAir Entertainment. You won’t find live games such as Card Matchup and 9 Pots of Gold Live Slot at many UK casinos, so that’s a nice selling point.

Pros
Best place for daily giveaways
Creative bonus offers
Live games you don’t often find in the UK
Innovative welcome bonus

Cons
Doesn’t have a mobile app
Bonus playthrough targets are too high

Play at Slots Royale

6. PUB Casino

Founding year: 2023
Welcome bonus: 100% deposit match up to £100
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Trustly, Skrill, Neteller, Apple Pay, bank transfer

As its name suggests, PUB Casino has a casual vibe. I’m not 100% sold on the branding, but there’s no doubt pubs and entertainment go hand-in-hand. On the gaming front, the software is basic but functional.

Of all the new casinos I’ve reviewed, this one is right up there with the best in terms of table games, not least because it has a steady stream of tournaments. The non-standard (i.e. casual) casino games are also fun.

The defining feature of PUB Casino is its promotions. I’m referring specifically to the terms and conditions. For example, the deposit match bonus doesn’t have any maximum bet or cashout restrictions. Similarly, there aren’t any wagering requirements on cashback bonuses.

Pros
Great place to play casual casino games
Plenty of tournaments
Some bonuses have no wagering requirements
Has a sportsbook

Cons
Software is basic
Not sure about the branding

Play at PUB Casino

7. PlanetSport Bet Casino

Founding year: 2021
Welcome bonus: Deposit £20 get 50 free spins
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Maestro

PlanetSport Bet is primarily a sportsbook, but interestingly, it covers a more diverse range of games than most casinos on my list. Alongside slots, table games and live dealers, it has virtual sports betting and bingo.

This alone makes it a great place for players of all persuasions. Slots players also get access to an impressive selection of bonus spin offers and cashback. Finally, even though the interface is a little bit messy, it does have some unique elements, including embedded videos that give you daily sports betting tips.

Pros
Diverse selection of games
Searching for games is easy
Novel features, such as embedded videos
Great for cashback bonuses

Cons
Most promotions are aimed at sports bettors
Only three payment options

Play at PlanetSport Bet

8. BoyleSports Casino

Founding year: 1982
Welcome bonus: 500% welcome bonus up to £50
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, paysafecard, Apple Pay, Boku, G Pay, Skrill, Neteller, Bank Transfer

BoyleSports Casino has an unprecedented welcome bonus. Even though the max bonus isn’t as big as some, the min deposit/stake is great. I say that because you only need to deposit and stake £10 on slots to unlock a 500% bonus. So, if we crunch the numbers, you only need to risk £10 to get £50 worth of bonus credit.

Bonus spin winnings have a 40x conversion rate, which matches the industry standard for bonuses of this kind. My only issue is that you have 48 hours to hit your wagering target after receipt of the bonus.

In my opinion, the website looks dated, and there’s a lot to digest. However, you can’t fault what’s available in terms of gaming options. In addition to digital and live casino games, you can play bingo, poker, and lottery games. Add sports betting to the mix, and you’ll never be short of options at BoyleSports.

Pros
Huge 500% welcome bonus
Weekly bonus spins promotions
Great selection of games
Trusted UK gambling brand

Cons
Website looks dated
You don’t get long to clear bonuses

Play at BoyleSports casino

9. Vegas Wins Casino

Founding year: 2022
Welcome bonus: £500 welcome bonus + 150 spins
Loyalty program: Yes
Mobile app: No
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, paysafecard, Apple Pay, Boku, G Pay, Skrill, Neteller, Bank Transfer

The max bonus for new members at Vegas Wins Casino is impressive. The bonus is split into three parts, and you’ll need to wager 60x (30x deposit + bonus) to release your bonus deposit balance. However, bonus spin winnings are only subject to a 30x playthrough, so that does improve the welcome offer’s overall value.

My take on Vegas Wins is that it has a kitsch, slightly garish design. However, it has plenty of great games, particularly if you like Megaways Slots, such as Slots O’Luck and Shamrock Miner. I also like the fact that you can get desktop notifications and that customer support agents are available via email, live chat, and SMS text.

Pros
Excellent loyalty program
Nice selection of themed slots
Part of the £2 million Drops & Wins slot network
Desktop alerts so you never miss a promo

Cons
Bonus wagering conditions aren’t great
Needs more table games

Play at Vegas Wins

10. JackpotCity Casino

Founding year: 1998
Welcome bonus: £100 deposit match + 100 bonus spins
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, bank transfer

JackpotCity Casino is an industry veteran that’s been available overseas since the late nineties. Since gaining approval from the Gambling Commission, it’s been making waves in the UK with a series of unique innovations.

I really like the new games tournaments because, as well as being a great way to try the latest slots, you get to play for a share of £20,000. JackpotCity also has daily slots tournaments with prizes ranging from £5 to £5,000, and WOW Pot progressive jackpots topping £11 million.

Finally, if you want to win a million, you can spin the Money Mega Wheel up to 10 times each day.

Pros
Best casino for progressive jackpots
Plenty of slot tournaments
Great selection of live game shows
Free chance to win £1 million every day

Cons
50x playthrough on welcome bonus
Customer support and FAQ could be better

Play at JackpotCity

11. Red Casino

Founding year: 2023
Welcome bonus: £25 deposit match + 50 spins
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: No
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer, Trustly, AstroPay, MuchBetter, Skrill, paysafecard

The Red Casino welcome bonus is pretty poor but stick with me because there are promotions that make up for it. New customers get a £25 deposit match and 50 spins. That’s a higher minimum deposit amount than other offers, and the maximum bonus isn’t particularly generous. The playthrough is also 70x, which isn’t great.

However, as I said, things get better. These wagering requirements apply to your first deposit only. After that, you get a much better contribution-to-conversion ratio on bonuses, including the Daily Spins Giveaway.

Red Casino has thousands of games, and it certainly stands out in the Slingo department with 33 options, including Slingo Cleopatra and Slingo Deal or No Deal. Finally, if you’re a fan of live dealers, this is the place to play because it has casino-floor games. This means you get to play live roulette alongside players in land-based casinos, including Manchester 235 and the Metropolitan in Mayfair.

Pros
Play for bonus spins every day
£2 million monthly prize drops
Excellent selection of Slingo games
Live casino-floor games

Cons
Welcome bonus is poor
No mobile app

Play at Red Casino

12. BetGrouse Casino

Founding year: 2009
Welcome bonus: £100 deposit match + 100 spins
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer, Trustly, AstroPay, MuchBetter, Skrill, paysafecard

With over 1,500 games, a low playthrough on bonus credits, and a simple design, BetGrouse is a no-nonsense casino with plenty to offer. I think the black-and-white design looks a bit imposing, so that might deter casual players.

Having said that, there are some nice touches. My favourite is the fact that game boxes tell you when someone hits a big win and the amount they’ve won. Another high-quality feature that flies under the radar is BetGrouse Casino’s responsible gambling tools. All the usual tools are in place, such as deposit limits, session timer trackers and reality checks. Where this section of the site stands out is the problem gambling questionnaire. It’s extremely detailed and can help you determine whether or not you’ve got a gambling problem.

Pros
Low playthrough on bonuses
Over 1,500 games
40+ progressive jackpot slots
Has a sportsbook

Cons
Could offer more ongoing promotions
Design gives off a serious vibe

Play at BetGrouse Casino

13. PriveWIN Casino

Founding year: 2022
Welcome bonus: £100 deposit match + 20 spins
Loyalty program: Yes
Mobile app: No
Bonus code: Not required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Neosurf, Bank Transfer, Trustly, Revolut, MuchBetter, Skrill, paysafecard

PriveWIN Casino has one of the best loyalty programs I’ve seen because you have a number of ways to boost your points balance, including leaderboard promotions and tasks. All real-money bets count towards your balance, which means you get to unlock perks such as cashback, prizes, and bonus credits based on the amount you play.

The interface is basic, but that makes it easy to navigate. What’s more, you can save your favourite games for easy access at a later date. Finally, among the 1,000+ five-reel slots and table games are casual games, including dice, scratchcards, and Yahtzee (dice).

Pros
World-class loyalty program
Easy-to-use website
Save your favourite games
100+ casual games, including scratchcards, lotto games and dice

Cons
Bonus playthrough is high
Doesn’t have a mobile app

Play at PriveWIN casino

14. HotStreak Casino

Founding year: 2021
Welcome bonus: Deposit £20, get 100 cash spins on Big Bass Bonanza
Loyalty program: Yes
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: BASS20
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard

The first thing that caught my eye at HotStreak Casino is the maximum amount you can win from the welcome bonus. £200 is higher than the industry average, and what’s even better is the fact that bonus spin wins are paid in cash.

This bonus policy makes HotStreak Casino’s new customer offer one of the best in the UK right now. The fact that you can earn loyalty rewards, such as win boosts and cash prizes, is another positive.

I would like to see a few more table games added to the gaming lobby, but there are plenty of slots to spin. The contribution weighting for slots is better than casino games, so they offer a fairly easy way to unlock HotStreak Casino’s generous bonuses.

Pros
Wager-free cash spins welcome bonus
Responsive customer support team
Great loyalty program
Nice selection of low-stakes casino games

Cons
Software is basic
Needs more payment options

Play at HotStreak casino

15. Pink Casino

Founding year: 2012
Welcome bonus: £150 deposit match + 50 cash spins
Loyalty program: No
Mobile app: Yes
Bonus code: Not Required
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay

Pink Casino has a friendly and welcoming vibe. Customer service agents were very helpful during my review, and you can enjoy hundreds of casino games, including bingo. The playthrough on bonuses is only 35x, and bonus spin winnings are paid in cash. So, on this front, Pink Casino is a great place for bonus hunters.

There is a mobile app, but it’s only available for Android users. Having said that, the mobile website is easy to use, so iOS users don’t need to avoid Pink Casino. Last, and certainly not least, are the progressive jackpots. They’re known as Gigantic Jackpots at Pink Casino. These jackpots – Mini, Minor, Major, and Mega – are added to dozens of different games and can be worth more than £19 million.

Pros
Excellent bonus wagering conditions
Offers jackpot games with £19 million+ prizes
Friendly and supportive community
You can play casino games and bingo

Cons
Needs to offer more promotions
Mobile app only available on Android

Play at Pink Casino

Best new casinos per game category

Which casinos are best when it comes to slots, live dealer casino games, poker and blackjack? Based on my reviews, there are a few brands that shine when it comes to specific games. Let’s find out what they are…

Best new slots casino

The best new slot casino when it comes to cash drop promotions is talkSPORT BET. A number of online casinos tap into Pragmatic Play’s £2 million Drops & Wins network, which I love. talkSPORT BET does that, as well as its own thing with daily prize drops called Reel Deal.

Another brand worth checking out if you want access to plenty of promotions is Hot Streak. The fact that you get cash spins, as opposed to bonus spins locked by wagering requirements, is a positive. Finally, for progressive jackpots, I recommend JackpotCity (the WOW Pot is often worth over £11 million) and BetMGM (I’ve seen jackpots worth £19 million).

Best new casino for live games

talkSPORT BET is one of my top new online casinos for a reason. It’s full of great games, which is why it’s also on my list of places for live dealer action. I really like its novel variants of casino classics, such as Football Roulette. I also recommend Stock Market Live from Evolution Gaming.

For something a bit different, Slots Royale hosts live games from OnAir Entertainment. Games such as Card Matchup, Nexus Roulette and 9 Pots of Gold Live Slot aren’t available at many UK casinos, so don’t miss an opportunity to play them at Slots Royale.

Finally, if you want to see what’s going down in land-based casinos across the UK, such as Manchester 235, make sure you complete the registration process at Red Casino.

Best new poker casino

One issue I often have with UK online casinos is that they don’t do casino poker as well as their North American counterparts. The positive, however, is that UK-licensed casinos can be good places to play poker variants such as Hold’em and Omaha.

BoyleSports is a great place to play poker against other people. Bally UK is also worth a look, not least because it’s an American import that does casino poker extremely well. What’s more, you can get free poker bets courtesy of Bally’s My Rewards loyalty program.

Best new blackjack casino

Blackjack is my favourite casino game because the house edge is low, and there’s an element of skill to it. talkSPORT BET has 20 live blackjack games, including Speed, All Bets, and Mega Fire Blaze, so that’s a positive. I also like the fact that you can take part in Pragmatic Play’s £2 million Drops & Wins promotion by playing blackjack for as little as £1 per round.

Another casino I enjoy playing blackjack at is BetMGM, simply because it has exclusive games, including North American favourites, such as Bellagio Blackjack.

How to select a new online casino

As you can see, there’s a vast array of new online casinos to choose from. In fact, the list I’ve given you isn’t even half of what’s available. However, through a combination of first-hand experience, industry insights, and feedback from experts, as well as players, I’ve picked out the top platforms.

I believe that showing you the best casinos is only part of my job. I want you to find the best casino option for you. That means showing you what I look for when I’m reviewing online casinos. Below are the features you should assess when you’re looking for entertainment, bonuses and the best betting options.

Range of games

When it comes to choosing the right casino, game selection is key for me. I always prefer casinos that offer a wide variety of slots and tables with live games like live blackjack and live poker. Before signing up and playing with real money, I make sure to check out the slot selection of a casino.

While personal preference plays a big role in the types of slots and games I enjoy, I always take a few minutes to browse through an operator’s selection before getting started. I look for casinos that have the latest software releases and vibrant live dealer games, rather than ones with a tired and outdated games lobby. Additionally, I appreciate casinos that offer sports betting options alongside their traditional casino games.

Some operators even provide betting options for sports like horse racing, football, and cricket, with excellent odds for punters who enjoy both casino games and sports betting. It’s great to find welcome bonuses that are tied to sportsbooks as well, allowing me to enjoy free spins and bonus bets all at once. By gathering all the necessary information, I increase the likelihood of selecting a casino that truly fits my preferences.

Selection of bonuses

What kind of bonuses do you want from an online casino? Does it offer a comprehensive loyalty program? What about bonus spins and no deposit bonuses? Do you want to be able to play against other people for prizes, and what are the wagering requirements?

I always make sure I spend a few minutes looking through a site’s promotional offering before I sign up, as this can really affect the whole gaming experience. If it’s a match bonus package, you should also check the min and max bonus amount, withdrawal restrictions, and whether it’s tied to specific games (e.g., Book of Dead, Starburst, or Megaways games) or game providers. For slot bonuses, you should also consider the spin value. Anything around the £0.10 to £0.20 mark is good.

The playthrough is also important because it’s the amount you have to wager before a bonus is converted to cash. I like these targets to be as low as possible, and in situations where they might be slightly higher than the norm, I like long clearing periods (the time you have to hit the target).

Finally, make sure there aren’t any other restrictions, such as a max bonus conversion or max win. A single bonus restriction that forces you to bet more than is necessary can turn a great-looking offer into a dud. That’s why I always look at the headline offer and the bonus wagering requirements.

Mobile play

I don’t want to just be stuck to my laptop when I am spinning the reels. All of the casino operators I have listed offer mobile play for play-on-the-go access, but some will have easier-to-use mobile casino sites than others. Some new online casino brands will also offer mobile casino apps, which can add an extra level of convenience to the playing experience.

While I don’t believe mobile apps are necessary, they are desirable. We live in a time when more people play casino games via a mobile than a desktop device. UK Gambling Commission data shows that more than 50% of gamblers use a mobile as their primary device. Therefore, it’s good to see casino developers tap into this trend by building slick iOS and Android apps.

Banking options and limits

If you’re a particularly conservative player or a high-roller (sometimes I am), then the amount of money you are going to be able to deposit and withdraw at one time is going to be important to your casino experience.

The methods you can use to do so are also going to be a key factor, so look out for the list of payments that the casino platform accepts, generally listed at the bottom of the homepage. For example, if you prefer to use e-wallets such as PayPal but the casino only accepts debit card payments, it’s not the right site for you.

I also recommend taking a look at things such as limits on the number of lifetime deposits you can make, the ways you manage your spending, and minimum amounts for withdrawal requests. In general, minimum deposits and withdrawals should range from £5 to £20.

Security and support

The final features I want to draw your attention to are security and support. It might seem obvious, but you should only use legit casinos. Indeed, you want to know that things such as withdrawal requests are going to be processed in accordance with UK regulations. An easy way to determine if a casino is legit is to look at its gaming licence.

If it’s licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, it’s not only legal but legit. Additionally, it will comply with various safety standards with regard to payments, storing player funds, fair games and more.

Customer support is a matter of personal experience. I scroll through FAQs and speak to members of the customer support team to get a sense of how helpful they are. You can use my reviews as a guide, but it’s important to remember that your experience might differ from mine.

However, I try my best to recommend online casinos with positive feedback from existing players and plenty of ways to get help when you need it. Moreover, because I only recommend licensed UK casinos, you can be confident that every platform you use will be safe and secure.

Casino games. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

Types of bonuses available at new UK casinos

While each casino will offer you different promotions, there are types of promotions that will appear again and again at gambling websites:

Welcome bonus: A welcome package is credited to new players when they sign up for a casino – in fact, it’s often known as a registration bonus. Such promotions will often be a matched-deposit casino bonus or bonus spins-style promotion.
Matched deposit: A matched deposit bonus is when the casino matches a player’s deposit up to a certain percentage. For example, a bonus may say ‘100% up to £100’. This means that the casino will match any deposit you make up to £100. If you deposit £10, the casino will add £10 to your accounts as a bonus fund.
Bonus spins: Due to changes in UK gambling regulation, you won’t see casinos offering players completely free spins anymore. Bonus Spins, however, are the same thing. These are spins that you can use on online slots that are at no extra cost to them. Watch out in case you need to enter a bonus code in order to take advantage of this offer – although many casinos nowadays simply add the bonus on with no extra effort from your end.
Loyalty programs: Casinos like it when players are loyal to them. Many casinos will offer loyalty or VIP programs that players can opt into to really take their gambling experience up to the next level. These will provide you with all sorts of perks and bonuses for sticking around and spending more money.

How to sign up at a new casino

Visit your chosen casino and locate the ‘sign-up’ button. This is usually found in the top corner.
Fill in the details requested. This includes name, e-mail address, address, and age.
Make sure to enter any promo codes or claim welcome bonuses before completing the form.
Verify your e-mail address and phone number if necessary.
You may be required to send further details to verify your age and identity. This will typically involve a form of a photo ID and/or proof of address.
Once everything is verified, make your first deposit, find your favourite slot or game, and cross your fingers. After all, anything can happen!

FAQs about new online casinos in the UK

1. What’s the difference between playing at a new casino vs a more established site?

The casino industry is evolving rapidly, and I find that opting for a newer casino over an older one can offer some unique benefits. The graphics on the website are usually more appealing and up-to-date, reflecting current trends compared to older gambling sites that haven’t been updated in years. Newer casinos often provide great bonuses and features as they strive to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

I’ve noticed that newer casinos tend to be more experimental in what they offer, aiming for uniqueness, especially in their game selection. From video poker to scratch cards, these newer establishments offer a diverse range of games. Moreover, newer casinos prioritize the safety of players by implementing state-of-the-art security measures to safeguard personal information. This emphasis on security gives me peace of mind when playing online.

2. Which new casino has the best bonuses?

As a casino expert, in terms of winning potential, I found that HotStreak Casino offered the best promotions. It has an excellent sign-up bonus and some promotions are wager-free, which makes them excellent value for the players, who are more likely to see their bonus funds. I am also a big fan of the bonuses at All British Casino, with the site using its unique theme to promote tournaments and prize draws.

3. Are new casinos fair?

Yes. All of the casinos that I have explored in this guide are 100% fair. The casinos I have ranked have a license from and are regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). Among all the countries that issue gambling licenses, the UK has some of the most stringent policies in the industry, so you can rest assured that you are safe and that everything is in order when playing. The UKGC also doesn’t allow cryptocurrency in its financial transactions, which is why you won’t find any casinos that accept Bitcoin on this page.

All games at these casinos, except for the live casino ones, use a random number generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of their spins/hands, and all payment methods are encrypted using the latest technology.

When playing at any online casino make sure you read and follow the rules carefully so that there are no nasty surprises down the line. Only use licenced bookmakers and operators with proper casino software.

4. Can I win real money at new casinos?

Yes! All of the new casinos I have listed on this page allow you to play for and win real money. After all, there wouldn’t be that much excitement otherwise. The amount that can be won will be determined by the individual slot machines or table games. You can deposit and withdraw their funds into your casino account using a range of safe and secure banking methods.

About the author

Daniel Smyth

Follow Daniel on Twitter @DanSmythThePoet

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Best casino free bet no deposit offers 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:25:00 +0000

UK sites are packed with exciting free casino bet bonuses that let you place wagers without a deposit.

To find the cream of the crop, come with me to see which brands have earned a spot on my list of the best free bets no deposit casinos.

Best casino free bet no deposit offers 2024

MrQ – 5 No Deposit Spins + 30 Extra Free Spins on your first deposit with promo code TALKSPORT35!
Hotstreak Slots – 10 no-deposit free spins on Finn and the Swirly Spin
SpinHill – 500 free spins!
Slots Royale – Up to 500 free spins on Big Bass Bonanza!
PokerStars – Get 100 free spins no deposit
Mr Vegas – 11 no-deposit free spins on signup
Aladdin Slots – 5 free spins on sign-up
Wild West Wins – 20 free spins on Cowboys Gold no deposit
Simba Slots – 5 free spins on Fruit Party
Slots Animal – 5 no-deposit spins on Wolf Gold
Lights Camera Bingo – 5 no-deposit free spins!
SpaceWins – 5 no-deposit free spins!
Immortal Wins – 20 free spins on Immortal Romance
Duelz – 100 free spins over 5 days
Cash Arcade – 5 free spins on Chilli Heat!
21 Casino – 21 free spins just for signing up!
Luck – 100 no deposit free spins + 125 free spins and £100 bonus

How I rated the best casinos with free bet no deposit offers

I’m here to help you find and get started with the best bets that are free with no deposits for UK customers. The operators featured in this article were tested according to several criteria, and you’ll now see how I evaluated and picked the top brands:

Bonuses and promotions

The first step in my reviewing process is always looking into the casino bonuses offered. This includes the bonus amount, conditions, and potential restrictions.

The best betting sites and top online casinos must have reasonable terms and conditions and clear wagering requirements. I also take other bonuses available for existing customers into accounts, so eligible punters and players can keep the fun going once their free bet offer ends.

Payment methods

Ensuring operators facilitate payments as much as possible is one of my priorities. Therefore, I’ll only ever tell you about operators with fast and safe payment methods.

A good bookmaker in my book will offer instant deposits and withdrawals, usually processed in under 24 hours. Casinos that accept PayPal are particularly appealing options for UK players due to the smooth and easy payout experience that they provide.

Licensing and security

Licences are crucial because they help keep customers safe. To receive a licence, operators must undergo extensive testing regarding fairness, financial transparency, and security measures. This helps prevent fraud, data breaches, and other fraudulent activities.

Customer support

If issues arise, my best bet is to contact support. As such, for a site to be top-rated for me, it must excel at solving its customers’ issues. When I rate a casino with no-deposit free bets highly, that usually means it offers 24/7 live chat or phone support so punters can quickly reach out to the staff. Additionally, some brands offer extensive FAQ sections and detailed terms to help customers get around.

Casino free bet no deposit offers compared

Here’s what you’ve been waiting for! Below, I’ve ordered a variety of the top free bet offers UK casino sites have in store. Check out my comparison before picking your favourite free bets no deposits UK bonus.

What is a casino free bet offer?

As the name implies, free bets no deposit offers let you place bets for free or play games with free spins you don’t have to deposit for. They’re one of the favourite bonuses for UK sports betting punters and casino players alike. Free bets typically have a set cash value assigned – for example, £5. Punters can use free bets to win real money rewards if they complete the casino’s requirements.

Bonus credit is usually given to players following registration on the website, but there are exceptions. Casinos sometimes credit free bets as part of a promotion around a specific casino game, software provider, or holiday.

Claim casino free bets. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

Key things to look out for in a casino free bets offer

You should take your time to learn everything you can about casino free bets before getting started. Here are the four key aspects to pay attention to:

Wagering requirements: Bonuses with fair wagering requirements attract more people as they’re easier to complete. Bets free no deposits UK bonuses typically have stricter requirements.
Maximum winnings: Since they’re free, operators usually limit the maximum winnings players can obtain with a free bet no deposit bonus. In this case, the terms and conditions should clearly state what the max win is.
Time limit: Sites require players to get started with their free bets as soon as possible. Otherwise, they risk voiding their bonus.
Country restrictions: Some free bet no deposit offers may only be available to players in certain markets. With the no deposit offers on my list, you can rest assured that all are available to players in the United Kingdom.

How to claim your free casino bet offers

Claiming a free bet no deposit is effortless. Follow my guide to get started:

Register at an online UK casino.
Follow the steps to verify your account.
Add funds to your account and select the desired bonus.
Complete the betting requirements.

What is the best time to use a free casino bet?

There’s no time like the present to use free bets no deposit offer. Since these bonuses are subject to time limits, completing the wagering requirement within this time limit is advised.

How to withdraw winnings from free casino bets

Withdrawing your winnings is as easy as getting started with this bonus. Here’s how you should proceed:

Head to your profile and press “Withdraw”.
Choose a withdrawal method.
Enter the amount you’d like to withdraw.
Enter your account information.
Confirm the transaction.

However, it’s essential to make sure you’ve completed the requirements before attempting to withdraw your winnings. Otherwise, your bonus may be void.

Can existing players claim free casino bets?

This depends on the bonus being offered. If free bets that require no deposits are part of a welcome package, then they’ll only be available to new players, and already valid players will, unfortunately, be excluded.

Fortunately, some sites are known for occasionally launching exclusive promotions for existing players. Other promotions, such as tournaments, can include free bets as rewards, which naturally means you won’t have to deposit to get them.

What’s better – casino free bets or no deposit bonuses?

The answer to this question depends on your preferences. If you’re playing on a budget, it’s best to resort to no deposit bonuses. But these are subject to higher wagering requirements, making them harder to complete. These bonuses are subject to a maximum winning limit. If it’s a question of funds, you may want to check out my top low-deposit betting sites instead.

On the other hand, traditional casino free bets are typically more generous in what they offer to players, even if they require a deposit up-front to be claimed.

Do I need a promo code to claim casino free bets?

Sometimes you will need to enter a promotional code to claim your casino free bets – other times it will be applied automatically. Always check to make sure that you’re fulfilling the terms and conditions tied to the bonus bet. I also recommend you familiarize yourself with the rights casino players have.

About the author

Daniel Smyth

Follow Daniel on Twitter @DanSmythThePoet

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Instant withdrawal casino sites: Top 15 fast withdrawal casinos

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:20:00 +0000

Nothing is more frustrating than landing a big win and then waiting days for it to appear in my bank account.

However, times are changing, and the days of waiting 3-5 business days to see my casino withdrawal in my account are becoming a thing of the past.

My top casino offer for July

In my experience, most top online casinos in the UK will now offer a variety of different payment methods which support fast withdrawals. These withdrawals can be as quick as a day and, in some cases, even less. Let’s look at what payment methods can be used, what casinos support them, and how they can help you in this fast withdrawal casinos guide.

Fast payout casinos

What is a fast withdrawal casino?

A fast withdrawal casino is a website that pays me out instantly once my payment request has been verified. This means my winnings can be back in my bank account quicker than ever. It used to be that casinos would make me wait between 3-5 days for withdrawals to be processed, but at fast-withdrawal casinos, the process is much faster. Many withdrawals take place in less than 24 hours, and in some cases, near-instantly.

How to choose the best fast-payout casino

With so many online casinos to choose from, it can be difficult to choose which is the best for you. Follow this handy guide to find one that suits your needs.

Check the licensing information: The first thing you should do on any website is check the licensing information provided. Any online casino in the UK should be licensed and regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC).
Explore the games selection: Check that the site has the slots or games you want to play and works with top developers.
Head to the cashier: Next, take a look at the payment methods that the casino has. You will want to find one that offers a selection of fast payment methods to ensure you can easily get your funds in and out of the casino.
Sign-up: Once you are happy with your choice, sign-up and make your first deposit at the casino. Don’t forget to claim your welcome bonus!

Fastest casino payment methods

The following are the best methods to use at fast-payout casinos. Each of them has its pros and cons, with the best one simply being the one that suits your needs the best.

Skrill

In my opinion, Skrill is one of the most secure e-wallets on the internet and is a popular choice for both deposits and withdrawals at online casinos. It has minimal fees for use, and can process payments within 24 hours.

Neteller

Neteller is an e-wallet that has become popular among online casino players like me. The company is part of the Paysafe Group, which also owns Skrill. Signing up for Neteller is simple, and it offers a speedy checkout at the cashier and equally fast withdrawals. There are plenty of sites that support Neteller banking.

PayPal

Paypal is the most popular e-wallet on the web, and PayPal casino payments are extremely common. It offer speedy withdrawal times, with payments often finding their way into your account in less than 24 hours. PayPal is popular because of its easy use, and it is often eligible for promotions and bonuses.

Visa/debit cards

Visa debit cards are still the go-to method for depositing and withdrawing funds with most online casino players. In order to keep up with the e-wallets, Visa has developed its own fast payment method called Visa Fast Funds. This is appearing in more online casinos and is likely to become the most popular quick payout method.

How to cashout at a fast withdrawal casino

If you have been lucky enough to land a win, head to the cashier section to withdraw.
Enter the amount you want to withdraw and choose the method you want to use.
You may only be able to use a method to withdraw if it has already been used to make a deposit.
Confirm your payment details and finish your request.
Sit tight and wait for the casino to verify the payment. Once this has been done, the withdrawal will be made.

Do I have to pay fees at fast-payout casinos?

None of the fast payout casinos I have listed have any withdrawal fees for players. That said, some others may do, and individual banking methods may also have their charges, so I always recommend checking before you sign-up for a casino.

What is payment verification at online casinos?

All online casinos will have a Know Your Customer (KYC) policy. This involves verifying your identity and age before making any deposits or withdrawals from the site. You may also be asked to provide proof of funds. These are all responsible gambling and safety measures designed to protect you, so do not be concerned if a casino asks for more information.

How long does it usually take to cash out at an online casino?

This will depend on the withdrawal method that you choose to use. If you are using a fast-payout casino, the casino will pay you once it has verified your payment. Depending on your chosen method, this is typically less than 24 hours and, in many cases, is almost instant. If you are not using a fast-payout casino, payouts can take up between 3-5 days.

Under one-hour withdrawal casinos

For online casinos, efficient transaction processing is crucial for players seeking a seamless and hassle-free experience. Fortunately, there are several exceptional online venues that excel in this regard, ensuring that deposits and withdrawals are swiftly processed within a remarkable timeframe of under one hour. Here are some of these exceptional casinos known for their speedy transaction processing:

talkSPORT BET
Duelz Casino
MrQ
VegasLand
32Red
Betway
Luckster

Can I avoid withdrawal fees?

No. If an operator has withdrawal fees, you will not be able to remove them. Of course, the best way to avoid fees is to use casinos that do not charge them. You should also check to see if fees are charged for every type of payment method, as this may not be the case, and you may be able to use one that won’t charge you.

If I don’t have an e-wallet, can I still get fast withdrawals at an online casino?

Yes. While this used to be the case, many top online casinos in the UK will use methods like Visa Fast Funds. These allow players to make quick withdrawals using their debit cards. This method is becoming increasingly popular and will no doubt be available at more casinos sooner rather than later.

Which casino has instant withdrawal?

None of the casinos listed can offer instant withdrawal because the casino will need to verify the payment. Once this has happened, the withdrawal will happen straight away. Most casinos will allow customers to use PayPal and other popular methods to make fast withdrawals. All of the casinos from my list offer fast withdrawals. One of my favourites is Duelz.

What casinos do same-day payouts?

None of the casinos listed guarantees a same-day payout for players, but many of them might be able to do it. For a payment to be made on the same day, the casino must verify it very quickly. Many e-wallets offer a payout time of 24 hours, but there is never a guarantee it will be the same day.

What is a minimum withdrawal amount?

The minimum withdrawal amount at a casino is the smallest amount you can withdraw. This will vary from casino to casino, and some will also have different minimum withdrawals depending on which method you choose.

What is a maximum withdrawal amount?

A maximum withdrawal amount is the most you can withdraw from a casino at one time. Most operators will have daily and weekly maximum withdrawals. The amount you can withdraw will change depending on the casino you are at and your banking method.

Tips for getting fast payouts at casino sites

Use e-wallets: Generally, e-wallets are the quickest way to get your winnings out of your casino account. Most top online casinos will offer e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller for payments. You will want to make sure you make your initial deposit with this method, as you may otherwise be unable to use it for withdrawals.
Check bonus terms: One thing you will need to be careful of when using a fast withdrawal method, is that certain payment methods are not eligible for promotions and bonuses. As such, you will either want to find a bonus that allows them, or just not claim the bonus. Of course, the former is preferable.
Avoid withdrawal fees: The listed casinos do not charge withdrawal fees, but that doesn’t mean this is the case for every casino. There are a lot of casinos out there that do not charge fees, so there is no need to sign-up with one that charges you for faster withdrawals.
Make sure your account is verified: There is no point in using a fast withdrawal site if you are going to slow the whole process down with identity verifications. The best casinos will verify everything they need when you sign-up, but sometimes you may need further verification for using certain payment methods. Ensure you have everything at hand if you need to be verified to speed up the process.
Check the minimum withdrawal: As well as banking methods, you will also want to check the minimum withdrawal amount. Casinos often have different minimum withdrawals for different banking methods, so don’t just look at it for one and assume they all have the same limits.

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Top 15 mobile casinos for UK players in July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:15:00 +0000

I’ve taken some of the country’s most established mobile casino operators for a spin and analysed each of their pros and cons to put together this handy guide to the best mobile casino apps and sites in the UK.

My top casino offer for July

The best mobile casinos in the UK – My full list

There are so many brilliant mobile casinos to choose from in the UK that knowing where to start can be a real headache. Still, the best online casinos are always a good place to start, so I’ve put together a selection of exclusive mobile-compatible offers for you to take advantage of.

Top UK mobile casinos and casino apps

Best mobile casinos UK. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

How to recognize a good mobile casino app

Each of the UK mobile casinos I recommended are there because they’ll maximise your fun, convenience, and gambling experience. Whether they make my list is based on the following criteria:

Mobile game and software provider variety

When choosing the best UK mobile casinos, I tested their online slots and casino game selections to ensure that there was plenty of variety for players. I expect every casino aspiring to be lauded as a top contender to provide everything from old-fashioned fruit-machine simulators with three reels, over casino slots and video poker, and games of chance made to emulate the Wheel of Fortune. I also looked at the quality of the casino software providers they work with and how often they update their catalogues. Of course, all games must be at least mobile-compatible, with some mobile exclusives to boot.

I’ll only seriously consider casino apps whose games include all the favourites, such as slot games, jackpots, bingo, and table games roulette, poker, baccarat, and blackjack. Some smartphone and tablet gambling apps even have craps, keno, and lottery games on offer, as well as live dealer games, which gets them some bonus points in my eyes.

Safety and security

I always say there is nothing more important when betting online and over mobile phones than the safety and well-being of players and their information.

That’s why it practically goes without saying that all UK mobile casinos I’ll ever showcase to you make this a priority. I look for confirmation of their use of the latest technology to ensure that players are safe and that their data is secure.

Bonuses and promotions

Casinos love to tempt players with generous welcome bonuses, and I expect my readers to take advantage of them as best they can. However, the best mobile casinos will offer an array of promotions for both new and existing customers. Of course, all of the mobile casinos I listed fulfill this requirement, and then some.

Aside from the standard matched casino bonuses on my first deposit, I also look for cashback, early payouts, jackpot tokens, a bonus code, etc. The more of these I find, the better the odds a casino ends up on my toplist.

Wagering requirements

A wagering requirement is the number of times users need to stake and win back the bonus amount (as a sum total) to be able to claim any real money winnings from it.

Obviously, the lower the wagering requirements, the better it is for the player. I never miss inspecting the wagering requirements on a given bonus, as well as the other terms & conditions, to find the ones that are the most beneficial for my readers.

Ease of use

Not all mobile sites are created equal, with some being much more difficult to navigate than others. When I declare a site one of the best UK mobile casinos, it’s one of those that make a seamless transition from desktop devices to mobiles.

Top mobile casino sites for UK players – A closer look

1. Mr Vegas

Casino app: No
No-download play: No
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: No
Android: No
App size: N/A

I know from my previous research that Mr Vegas is home to one of the biggest game collections in the UK. With this operator, I’ve had the opportunity to choose among 6,000 games from top developers, as well as a live casino section that could go toe-to-toe with the best in the industry.

MrVegas mobile casino

Its simple and clean design made it a joy for me to use on a mobile phone, starting from completing the registration via cell to playing one of the hundreds of games on my smaller screen and reaping the rewards. No app yet for Mr Vegas, something I’m none too pleased about, but I’m confident they’ll fix this soon as they seem committed to excellence otherwise.

Pros
Minimalist design makes it easy to use
One of the biggest selections on the internet, with 6,000+ games to choose from

Cons
Limited promotions for existing customers

Visit Mr Vegas casino

2. Duelz

Casino app: No
No-download play: No
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: No
Android: No
App size: N/A

One of my favourites for a few years now, Duelz is a unique online casino that is themed around battles taking place in a faraway mystical kingdom. I particularly like how effectivly the casino utilises this theme, offering a unique bonus program revolving around winning battles.

Duelz mobile casino

It is also one of the most user-friendly mobile casinos I’ve had the pleasure of playing at and is home to thousands of slots and table games, all of which have excellent compatibility with playing on mobile. Unfortunately, the only thing missing here is a casino app, but I have high hopes Duelz will make one in the coming period.

Pros
Unique theme and promotions
Over 1,000 slots and games to choose from
User-friendly website design

Cons
High minimum deposit and withdrawals

Visit Duelz casino

3. talkSPORT Bet

Casino app: Android and iOS
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: 4.8
Google Play score: 4.4
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 120.4 MB

talkSPORT Bet debuted in 2022 and has, unsurprisingly, wasted no time establishing itself as a leading casino and sports betting site. I was delighted to see Bet Victor’s name attached to the casino, with the user-friendly layout and branding making it a pleasure to use for both casino play and sports betting.

talkSPORT BET mobile casino

The casino section has around 500 games, which is less than some of its competitors. However, it makes up for this with a good range of casino bonuses and an extremely user-friendly mobile app. I’m not the only one who enjoys the app either, boasting a 4.8 and 4.4 scores on the App Store and Google Play Store, respectively.

Pros
Top-reviewed mobile casino on the App Store and Google Play
24/7 live chat available
User-friendly mobile app and site

Cons
Limited hours for phone support

Play at talkSPORT BET

4. MrQ

Casino app: Yes
No Download Play: No
App store score: 4.0
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: Yes
Android: No
App size: 33.2 MB

I’ve seen MrQ provide a top mobile casino experience to UK players since 2018, so naturally, I had to include it in my selection. The operator works with some of the biggest names in the industry to provide a selection of slots, games, live casino, and instant-win titles.

MrQ mobile casino

And for my readers, the casino also throws in 35 free spins to be used on Starburst as a welcome bonus, 5 of which don’t need a deposit! Just use my bonus code to claim them. This goes for mobile registration and desktop users, of course, and I would assume you would be one of the former.

Pros
Zero wagering requirements on some promotions
Big selection of slots and live casino games
Provides handy guides for different types of games

Cons
No phone support available

Visit MrQ casino

5. Neptune Play Casino

Casino app: N/A
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: N/A

Neptune Play Casino opened its doors in 2020, and while it is not as well known as some of the other casinos on this list, it has plenty to offer players.

Neptune Play mobile casino

I tested the mobile site on Safari and Google Chrome and found it easy to use, with the stylish black and blue colour scheme being easy on the eyes and well-organised and clear menus allowing me to find what I was looking for with ease.

There is also a welcome generous bonus on offer for new customers, with players able to claim 100% up to £100 with a minimum £10 deposit.

Pros
Good selection of payment methods
Great mobile site for Google Chrome and Safari
Great tournaments and other regular promotions

Cons
Limited customer support options

Play at Neptune Play

6. PUB Casino

Casino app: N/A
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: N/A

PUB Casino hit the UK market in 2022 and it has been steadily growing as a popular spot for online casino players. On my first visit to the mobile site, I was impressed with the slick design, with some excellent filtering options allowing me to flick through the casino’s selection of slot developers easily.

PUB casino mobile casino

The site does a good job of enticing new customers, offering a welcome bonus of 100% up to £100. Unfortunately, at the time of writing, PUB Casino does not have a mobile casino app available.

Pros
Unique website theme
Generous welcome bonus
Brilliant navigation and filtering options

Cons
No mobile app

Play at PUB Casino

7. VoodooDreams

Casino app: N/A
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: N/A

Voodoo Dreams is one of the most stylish mobile casinos available. When I first visited the site, I was won over by its dark and neon blue colour scheme, as well as its easy-to-use menus and deposit options.

While it is not available as an app at the time of writing, the mobile site is easy to use on both Android and iOS. I personally preferred the Safari version of the site, but that is down to me preferring Safari’s mobile interface for casino gaming.

VoodooDreams mobile casino

The site is home to around 1,600 titles, with slots on offer from the likes of Stakelogic, Pragmatic Play, and Hacksaw Gaming. There is also a strong live casino section powered by Evolution. New players can claim a generous welcome bonus consisting of a 100% deposit bonus of up to £50 and 50 free spins.

Pros
1,600 games from some of the industry’s biggest developers
Excellent loyalty scheme
Stylish website design

Cons
High minimum deposit

Play at VoodooDreams

8. Betway casino

Casino app: Android and iOS
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: 4.2
Google Play score: 4.1
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 78.7 MB

Betway is one of my favourite casino brands in the UK. The Betway brand has been on the market since 2006, and I have been a regular customer throughout my adult life. There are around 3,000 games to enjoy on the site, with a strong selection of slots, arcade games, and live casino offerings.

Betway mobile casino

Popular titles on the site include Play’n Go’s iconic Book of Dead, Games Global’s Immortal Romance, and Pragmatic Play’s Big Bass Bonanza, just to name a few.

The mobile apps are a joy to use, as is reflected in their 4.7 and 4.1 scores in the App Store and Google Play Stores, respectively.

Pros
Brilliant reviews for Apple and Android apps
Generous welcome bonus
Well-respected brand in the UK

Cons
Limited live chat hours

Play at Betway casino

9. Luckster Casino

Casino app: N/A
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: N/A

Luckster Casino is an Irish-themed site that was brought to my attention when it launched in the UK in 2022. While the casino does not have a mobile app at the time of writing, it can still be accessed on mobile browsers on Android and iOS.

I tested the mobile site on Safari and Google Chrome. It has a nice colour scheme and some clear menus. However, I would say it could improve its games library navigation, with a lack of filters meaning I had to search for titles individually.

Luckster mobile casino

On that note, there is a big collection of titles to enjoy, with over 1,300 games, including over 100 live dealer games. There is also a good selection of bonuses, with new players able to claim a three-party welcome bonus that amounts to a 200% match up to £200 and 100 free spins in total.

Pros
Huge three-part welcome bonus
Playful website design and theme
User-friendly mobile website

Cons
No mobile app

Play at Luckster

10. BetMGM casino

Casino app: Android and iOS
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: 4.5
Google Play score: 2.0
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 61.4 MB

BetMGM is one of the biggest operators in America, so I was excited to see it launch in the UK in 2023. Needless to say, I wasn’t disappointed. The casino works with some of the biggest developers in the industry, with titles from the likes of Game Global, Evolution, and Pragmatic Play all available. There are over 2,800 titles on offer, which is one of the most impressive collections I’ve come across.

BetMGM mobile casino

The BetMGM mobile app is easy to use. I tested it on both Android and iOS and found no issues with the casino on either. The app has a low 2.0 rating on the Google Play Store, but it appears that most of the negative reviews are associated with the sports betting part of the app.

Pros
Globally recognised casino brand
Mobile app available on Android and iOS
Over 2,800 games

Cons
Mixed customer reviews for the Android App

Play at BetMGM

11. Bally Casino

Casino app: Android and iOS
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: 4.7
Google Play score: 4.4
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 44.1 MB

Another major US player that has entered the British market is Bally Casino. The casino has lived up to its strong reputation, delivering a premium mobile casino experience with a selection of 700 games for players to enjoy.

The site welcomes new players by offering 30 free spins when they deposit £10 or more. There is also a plethora of weekly promotions to enjoy.

Bally UK mobile casino

I tested the app on Android and iOS and found it to be very intuitive. The design is simple but effective, and it was easy to find everything I was looking for. I am clearly not alone in this experience, as the site boasts impressive ratings on the App and Google Play Stores.

Pros
Hugely respected US casino brand
Big selection of weekly bonuses
Strong live casino section

Cons
Limited banking options

Play at Bally UK

12. Rainbow Riches Casino

Casino app: N/A
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: N/A

The Rainbow Riches slot franchise is a classic, so it’s nice to see it honoured with an online casino themed around it. The casino opened its big green doors in 2019 and has become a popular spot for online casino players.

When I play at Rainbow Riches Casino, I like to make the most of its extensive Slingo and instant-win catalogue, with the Rainbow Riches Slingo game being one of my all-time favourites.

Rainbow Riches mobile casino

Although the lack of a mobile app is disappointing, the browser site is well-designed and easy to use. I have found the aforementioned Slingo and instant-win prizes lend themselves particularly well to mobile gaming.

Rainbow Riches Casino also boasts a good range of bonuses and promotions, with new customers able to claim 30 free spins to use on the Rainbow Riches slot when they play with £10.

Pros
Brilliant range of instant-win and Slingo titles
Generous loyalty program
Fast withdrawal speeds

Cons
Limited live casino selection

Play at Rainbow Riches

13. HotStreak Slots

Casino app: Android and iOS
No-download play: No
App Store score: 4.7
Google Play score: 3.0
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 26.2 MB

Hotstreak Slots is a casino that burst onto the scene in 2022. I signed up with the site when it was first launched and have watched it continue to improve in the time since. It has over 750 games to choose from, with games from some of my favourite developers, including Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, and ELK Studios.

HotStreak Slots mobile casino

The app has a mixed rating from customers, with a 4.7 from the App Store and 3.0 from Google Play. However, it is worth noting that the app is relatively new, and it has less than 50 reviews on each platform at the time of writing. Personally, I found the app to be really easy to use, with the games loading efficiently and the bonuses easy to claim.

Speaking of bonuses, there is a no-deposit welcome bonus of 10 free spins that players can claim. Unfortunately, the wagering requirements for bonuses at the casino are high, sitting at 60x.

Pros
No deposit welcome bonus
Apple app has excellent reviews
Small app to download

Cons
High wagering requirements

Play at HotStreak Slots

14. bet365 casino

Casino app: Android and iOS
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: 4.5
Google Play score: 4.1
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 21 MB

Few brands require as little an introduction as bet365. The iconic sports betting brand also operates a hugely successful online casino, and it is one I am happy to recommend. While the game selection is not as strong as some others, with the site offering around 850 titles to customers, there is still plenty of quality on offer here.

bet365 mobile casino

The app is easy to use, with the company’s trademark stylish design making a smooth transition to smaller screen sizes. I am also a fan of some of the company’s original betting titles and its casino bonuses and promotions. This includes a welcome bonus that allows new players to claim 100 free spins when they stake £10 or more.

Pros
No deposit welcome bonus
Apple app has excellent reviews
Small app to download

Cons
High wagering requirements

Play at bet365 casino

15. Casumo

Casino app: Android and iOS
No-download play: Yes
App Store score: 3.6
Google Play score: 2.4
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 76.7 MB

Casumo is another hugely popular casino that can be downloaded and enjoyed as a mobile app. I was impressed by the operator’s collection of over 2,000 games, with slots on offer from the likes of NetEnt, Play’n Go, and Push Games. Some of my favourite titles include Jammin Jars, Starburst, and Dead or Alive II. There is also a healthy range of casino and live casino options available.

Casumo mobile casino

The lower ratings in the Google Play and App stores caught my eye, but my own experience with the app was positive. It was easy to download, and I had the reels spinning on my favourite slots within minutes.

New customers can claim a welcome bonus worth up to £25 and 20 free spins. I was more impressed by the range of weekly promotions on offer, with a different casino bonus every day.

Pros
Over 2,000 slots and games
Good customer support options
Selection of ongoing promotions for existing customers

Cons
Poor reviews for Android app

Play at Casumo

16. Karamba

Casino app: No
No-download play: No
App Store score: 1.8
Google Play score: 3.0
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 29.6 MB

The next casino on my mobile-specific catalogue is Karamba, a well-designed online platform that plays host to a huge selection of slots and games from some of the best developers around.

My testing showed the site makes a smooth transition onto smartphones and tablets and I genuinely found it one of the most user-friendly casinos on the market.

I easily got my hands on their generous welcome bonus worth up to £50 with 100 free spins from mobile, too. I was able to use a portion of the spins on all sorts of mobile games, including a mobile-friendly version of Big Bass Bonanza. All in all, Karamba is a well-rounded site with an equally well-developed casino app.

Pros
Large selection of games
A good range of promotions to choose from

Cons
Limited customer support hours

Visit Karamba casino

17. Griffon Casino

Casino app: Yes
No-download play: No
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: 2.6
iOS: No
Android: Yes
App size: N/A

Griffon is one of the newest mobile casinos on my list, and also one of the best. I was happy to see this stylish, modern casino offers over 1,000 different games from some of the industry’s biggest names.

For starters, it lured me in as a new player with a brilliant three-part welcome bonus worth 200 spins to be used on selected slots. The good news is, most of those slots were mobile-optimized and as soon as I fulfilled the eligibility requirements and opted in, I was able to play.

Pros
Stylish mobile interface
Plenty of banking options
Good selection of promotions

Cons
No mobile application

Visit Griffon casino

18. 32Red

Casino app: Yes
No Download Play: No
App Store score: N/A
Google Play score: 2.2
iOS: No
Android: Yes
App size: N/A

32Red has been operating in the UK for over two decades and is a constant member on my personal-favourites list. The site has made a name for itself thanks to its excellent sports betting section, but I was delighted by its mobile casino experience, too.

With 32Red, I was treated to one of the most diverse gaming portfolios on the market, loaded with top online slots, live casino, and more. All this and more awaited on both the mobile site version and, even more impressively, a well-designed casino app I thoroughly enjoyed using.

Pros
A recognised brand with 20+ years of experience
Diverse slot and games portfolio
Excellent customer support

Cons
High wagering requirements

Visit 32red casino

19. 10bet

Casino app: Yes
No Download Play: No
App Store score: 3.6
Google Play score: 2.3
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes
App size: 100.2 MB

In my experience, 10bet is an operator that is synonymous with sports betting. However, I’ve known for a while now that it also offers a top-quality casino selection for players. What’s more, the site’s award-winning design lends itself perfectly to mobile use, making it one of the smoothest mobile phone casino experiences on the market.

I could download it’s double-duty casino & bookmaker app on both Google Play and the App Store, too, with much the same results. As a new players on the platform, I was able to get my hands on a 50% deposit match welcome bonus of up to £250 to use on selected slots.

Pros
Award-winning website design
Excellent customer support

Cons
Limited banking methods available

Visit 10bet casino

20. Grosvenor Casinos

Casino app: Yes
No-download play: No
App store score: 4.2
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: Yes
Android: Yes (Poker only)
App size: 63.5 MB

If you’ve heard anything about casinos in the UK, you’ve heard of Grosvenor – one of the most recognisable casino brands in the UK. The company owns physical venues all over the country, some of which I’ve had the pleasure of visiting, and it has now taken that expertise and brought it into the mobile casino world.

I skipped right ahead to downloading its main casino app – there’s one just for poker, too – and found an extensive slot selection, as well as one of the best live-casino offerings in the UK. I checked the desktop-to-mobile transition as well, and was pretty pleased with the results, although I think the navigation would be a bit too complex for a newbie user – something an operator of Grosvenor’s calibre should pay attention to.

Pros
Hugely respected casino brand in the UK
Excellent live-casino section
Provides handy guides for different types of games

Cons
Some navigation issues damage the user experience

Visit Grosvenor Casinos

21. HeySpin

Casino app: No
No Download Play: No
App store score: N/A
Google Play score: N/A
iOS: No
Android: No
App size: N/A

Although it bottoms out my list, worry not – HeySpin is a top mobile casino that is easy to use and offers a fantastic selection of games and slots for players to enjoy. I was happy with the mobile version of the site, as it manages to take everything great about the desktop version and condense it onto a smaller screen.

As a new player, I got my feet under the table with a first deposit bonus of 100% up to £25 and 25 spins to use on Book of Dead – nothing too grandiose, but I liked that the bonus was mobile-game compatible and straightforward. Still, it’s a shame HeySpin is so slots-oriented, since I would’ve enjoyed spending my welcome money on some low-stakes live games as well.

Pros
Good range of banking methods
Generous promotions and bonuses available

Cons
Live casino section is not as strong as some of its competitors

Visit HeySpin casino

Play at mobile casinos. 18+ BeGambleAware.org – please play responsibly.

Best mobile casino bonuses

The following are some of the best welcome mobile casino bonuses I have found during my research for this guide:

talkSPORT Bet – Wager £10, Get up to 100 Free Spins

If you are a new customer with talkSPORT Bet, you can double your first deposit thanks to its generous welcome bonus. New customers can get 100 in bonus spins when they make their first £10 bet.

You must deposit £10 using your debit card or Apple Pay. I always opt for the latter when using the mobile app for extra convenience. You will then be rewarded with 100 free spins. The first you will be given when you complete the requirements, and the second will appear 24 hours later. All bonuses have a 40x wagering requirement.

To claim the bonuses, you will need to opt-in in the OFFERS section of the app. You have seven days to do this from when you initially sign up.

bet365 – Get 100 Free Spins

New players at bet365 can get their hands on 100 free spins worth £0.10 each when they make their first £10 deposit. All you need to do during the sign-up process is to opt-in and the spins will be deposited into your account when you are finished.

Players can use the spins on four slots: Book of Horus, Eye of Wukong, King of the Klondike, and Sizzling 7 Fortunes. I like all of these slots, with King of the Klondike being my favourite. Another huge plus with this bonus is that there are zero wagering requirements involved.

HotStreak Slots – 10 No Deposit Free Spins

I couldn’t finish this guide without recommending a no-deposit bonus. New players at Hot Streak slots can claim 10 free spins to be used on the popular Finn and the Swirly Spin slot. All you need to do to claim the bonus is complete the mobile verification process.

The wagering requirements for this bonus are a little high at 60x, but whether you win or not, Finn and the Swirly Spin is a hugely innovative and enjoyable slot that you should definitely take for a spin, especially with no deposit bonus involved.

Casumo Casino – 100% up to £25 and 20 Free Spins

I like Casumo’s welcome bonus as it gives you a bit of both worlds. Players are greeted with a 100% bonus worth up to £25 on their first deposit, as well as 20 free spins to use on the Sahara Riches Cash Collect slot.

You will need to opt into the bonus when you sign-up, which is a simple process of just clicking a box. To sign-up, follow the link we have provided. The bonus has a wagering requirement of 30x the deposit amount.

BetMGM Casino – Up to £100 in Bonuses and 100 Free Spins

When it comes to the sheer size, few welcome bonuses are as impressive as BetMGM’s. The operator serves up a deposit bonus of £200, with new customers able to get one of three different welcome packages depending on the size of their deposit. They can claim:

10 Free spins and £10 cash for deposits between £10 and £49.99.
25 Free spins and £50 cash for deposits between £50 and £99.99
50 free spins and £100 cash for deposits of £100 or more.

What makes this bonus so attractive is that you can claim it twice! Each bonus has a wagering requirement of 35x, and players have seven days to complete it. All free spins must be used within three days. If you claim the bonus twice, you must do so within seven days of signing up.

How do mobile casinos work in the UK?

As you already know, mobile casinos allow players to access their favourite slots and games from anywhere. In the UK, mobile casinos have been a staple for quite some time, and most of them offer desktop versions of their sites and apps, too.

When I want to access the mobile version of a casino site, I simply head over to its homepage using my phone (or tablet, if you so prefer) and browser. In my opinion, the majority of the entertainment experience remains the same, with most operators simply minimising their site to fit on the smaller screens and be touch-friendly.

However, one significant advantage some operators offer is fully formed casino apps where you can spend your virtual chips. A mobile casino platform in the form of an app has all the functionality of the desktop site. To boot, casino apps often have exclusive offers or specific features unavailable on bigger screens. If a mobile app is very new, it’s pretty customary to have a specialized promotion to entice users to sign up via app.

Overall, I’ve seen casino apps experience remarkable success, as they offer a much more easygoing experience of playing slots games, using bonus spins, or participating in tournaments.

Playing at home vs playing on the go

Mobile casino play has become incredibly popular over the last decade, and it’s easy to see why. I love being able to access my favourite slots and games wherever I am. It is not just a case of added convenience when you are out and about though.

The days of having to get your laptop out or download a program to use an online casino are long gone, with mobile casinos allowing you to simply pull out your phone and load up your favourite games in a matter of seconds.

Pros and cons of playing at a mobile casino

Pros
Easy access
Same game quality as a desktop device
No downloads are required

Cons
Reliant on network coverage if not playing at home

Pros and cons of playing on a desktop at home

Pros
Secure connection
Bigger screen displays games in their original format
Fewer restrictions on bonuses and payment methods in some instances

Cons
Have to be in one place
Mobile-only games are not available

Mobile casino sites vs mobile casino apps

One of the biggest questions people have about mobile gameplay is: if I have access to a mobile site, why do I need to download an app? For many people, this is simply a case of personal preference.

For example, I like being able to just open my phone and see my favourite casino and sports betting apps presented in front of me. I find it easier to personalise my experience using a mobile casino app, with easier log-ins, deposits, and access to my favourite games.

For some players, the option to download a mobile app may be restricted by phone storage. This is where mobile casino sites can be incredibly useful, with players not needing to download any additional software and simply being able to click on their preferred browser to play.

Pros and cons of using a mobile casino app

Pros
An additional level of convenience
Some casinos may have app-exclusive bonuses
Easier for mobile deposits and account access

Cons
Requires space on your phone or tablet

Pros and cons of playing on a mobile casino site

Pros
Easy access through your mobile browser
Does not require additional space on your device
Access to a huge selection of mobile games

Cons
Have to be in one place

Android casinos vs iOS casinos

Another debate I often encounter among casino players is whether casinos are better on iOS or Android. Like many of these issues, the answer will really come down to personal preference, with each operating system providing its own pros and cons.

Generally, I have found that apps are more readily available on Android, with the option to download via third parties being more regular. However, because Apple is more selected, I have found the quality of its apps is often better. That said, like all Apple products, a lack of compatibility with some things can be a little frustrating.

Pros and cons of using an iOS/Apple casino app

Pros
Free to download
Apps tend to be of a better quality
Apple Pay is one of the most convenient payment methods around

Cons
Not as many apps are available

Pros and cons of using an Android device to play

Pros
Free to download
More casinos are available
Compatible across different devices and brands

Cons
More third-party, and sometimes unsafe, apps are available

How to sign up at mobile casinos

Signing up with a mobile casino has never been easier. For this purpose of this explanation, I am going to talk you through how I signed up with Casumo Casino.

Firstly, I downloaded the Casumo app from the App Store. You can always sign-up using the mobile site or Android App as well.
I was greeted with the option to sign up.
From here, I entered my email address and chosen password.
It then moved me to the next stage, where I had to enter my postcode and house number. With this information, it automatically found my address.
I then needed to enter my phone number and choose my marketing options before completing the sign-up process.
Once I was logged in, I had to make my first deposit. To do this, I clicked the ‘Wallet’ tab at the bottom of the screen. I was then presented with the option to deposit and claim my bonus.
For this, I recommend using Apple Pay, as it is the quickest method available.

How to choose the best mobile casino in the UK

With so many mobile casinos available, knowing the best one to choose can be a real headache. You can relax though, because I’ve done the proverbial legwork for you.

All of the mobile casinos I listed above offer excellent service to players. However, each of them has its own strengths, and some weaknesses I want to highlight. In the end, the choice of which is the best is going to come down to a player’s personal preference, but I won’t leave you in the dark about any important details.

For example, mobile casino games are sometimes made exclusive, with special graphics that wouldn’t work on a PC, and the gaming experience includes features that make playing on the move much more convenient. I’ll let you know when you can expect these.

Mobile casino game software providers

The mobile casino industry is booming right now, and everybody wants a piece of the market. I have played and reviewed thousands of mobile slots and games from some of the industry’s most established names. The following are the five providers I believe boast the best mobile casino catalogues.

Pragmatic Play

Pragmatic Play is one of the most active developers in the industry. While a hectic release schedule of eight titles a month ensures that not all of their games quite hit the spot, when they get it right, they really get it right. Some of my favourite Pragmatic Play titles include the likes of Gates of Olympus and Starlight Princess, both of which utilise a pay-anywhere mechanic that feels perfect for mobile gaming. Another favourite of not just mine but the wider gambling public’s, is the Big Bass Bonanza series. This launched in 2020 and has been a huge success, spawning several spin-offs and sequels, each as enjoyable as the last.

The company also released Big Bass Crash, which uses a crash-play mechanic that feels perfect for mobile gaming.

Nolimit City

Few slot developers out there can boast a slot catalogue as diverse and interesting as Nolimit City. Every time I see its name attached to a title, I know I am for a fun ride. Its slots are known for their daring themes and gameplay mechanics, with its most popular titles including the likes of Tombstone RIP, San Quentin xWays, and Karen Maneater. Their slots are often extremely volatile and boast huge maximum wins, making them the perfect game to take for a spin on the go.

Evolution

If you are a fan of live casino gaming, then Evoution titles are absolutely must-play. The studio specialises in live casino versions of everyone’s favourite table games, including blackjack, roulette, and baccarat. All of these are perfectly optimised for mobile use, ensuring you can enjoy them wherever you are. I am a huge fan of Evolution, in particular, their TV-style games like Monopoly Live, Funky Town, and Dream Catcher.

Relax Gaming

If I’m in the mood for some jackpot action, then Relax Gaming is one of my go-to developers. The Relax Gaming Dream Drop Jackpot slots are some of the best on the market for big wins. They are also the brains behind the fantastic Money Train series, which has been one of my favourite series to play. Like Nolimit City, I find Relax Gaming to be one of the most innovative and exciting developers on the market, and I love taking their slots for a spin on my mobile.

Games Global

Since acquiring Microgaming and making a name for itself, Games Global has been one of the most consistent providers in the industry. It now owns some of the most popular mobile slots of all time, including the iconic Immortal Romance and the Mega Moolah series, which has served up some of the biggest jackpot wins of all time.

Payment methods available at mobile casinos

Each of the casinos whose features I outlined above will have its own selection of payment methods available. These will often include debit cards, e-wallets, pre-paid cards, and bank transfers.

Players in the UK will not be able to make a deposit using credit cards or crypto, as per UKGC regulations. The most common allowed payment methods are:

Visa/Mastercard
PayPal
Skrill
Neteller
paysafecard
MuchBetter
Boku
Trustly
Bank transfer
Pay by mobile

How to withdraw money on mobile casino sites

Withdrawing money from a mobile casino site is a simple process. When I’m lucky enough to land a win, I head over to the cashier section and select the withdraw option. I can then choose my preferred withdrawal method (most casinos automatically set this to match the deposit method, if possible) and enter the amount. The speed of the withdrawal will depend on the method used, and players will sometimes only be able to withdraw with a method if they have used it to deposit.

What’s more, if your mobile casino bonus was restricted to deposits from a specific payment method, you might face those same restrictions upon withdrawal of any bonus funds you may have won. For example, payment options for bonuses often allow all card deposits, but exclude e-wallet candidates such as Skrill and Neteller. Surprisingly, alternatives such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are often allowed, even though not many gamblers use them.

FAQ about casino apps and mobile casinos

Below, I’ll answer the most important questions you may have about playing casino games on mobile in the UK, both at mobile casino sites and casino apps.

1. Are there any fees when playing at mobile casinos?

No, you will not have to pay to use a casino’s mobile site or app. Every mobile casino app is free to download from Google Play or the App Store if you’re using an iPhone or iPad, and all mobile sites can be instantly accessed using popular browsers like Chrome or Safari. Mobile casinos work in the same way as their desktop counterparts.

On top of the info I give you, customer reviews will also warn you if there are any scammy features at mobile casinos, so read through them before you transfer your casino account to one of the available mobile casino options.

2. What is the best mobile casino in the UK?

As you might expect, all the casinos I showcased have their own pros and cons. Among them, my personal choice is Duelz Casino. Duelz has a unique theme and is home to over 1,000 different games.

The operator works with some of the top developers in the industry including veterans like Microgaming and NetEnt, as well as innovators like Hacksaw Gaming and Nolimit City. I found the mobile site easy to use, so much so I didn’t feel the lack of an app, and the casino’s unique battle-system feature makes it stand out from the rest of the pack.

3. What is the best casino app in the UK?

Many of the top mobile casinos I introduced here also have mobile apps that can be downloaded for free from the Google Play or App store. In my opinion, the best mobile casino app in the UK is 10bet.

10bet is one of the most recognisable betting brands in the country, and it provides top-quality service across the board. Its mobile app is user-friendly and it offers a huge selection of slots from some of the best developers in the industry (e.g., Playtech, Spinomenal, Yggdrasil, etc.). On top of that, you can also get your hands on an array of exciting bonuses and promotions.

4. Are mobile casinos safe for UK players?

Yes! The mobile casinos I have listed for you are all licensed and regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission. The UKGC is one of the most stringent regulatory bodies in the iGaming world, putting customer safety and security above anything else, and you should always check your casino’s footer for the UKGC license logo before depositing any cash or engaging in gameplay to ensure your account will be kept safe.

5. Are iOS mobile casinos better than Android?

No. Both iOS and Android casinos I’ve tried out offer excellent mobile casino experiences for players. The decision of which to use is going to come down to personal preference and, essentially, which phone you’re using. The same applies to mobile browsers, with both Google Chrome and Safari having great mobile casino capabilities.

Top tips to improve your mobile casino playing experience

Don’t chase losses: This is my most important tip. Make sure that you do not chase losses and that you always gamble responsibly. After all, you are never due a win and that you should never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Experiment with different games: Mobile casinos will offer a great variety of different games, and if you want to get the most from your experience, I recommend trying out as many as you can. Sticking to one type of game can make the experience repetitive and dull, so why not mix things up a little and take different titles for a spin?
Take advantage of bonuses and promotions: Casinos love to attract new customers and keep existing ones happy. As such, you can always find a selection of bonuses and promotions to take advantage of and enhance your mobile casino playing experience.
Keep your phone charged!: Okay, so this one might seem obvious, but take it from me, there is nothing more frustrating than triggering a bonus round only for your phone to just shut off. To get the best out of your mobile casino experience, make sure you have your phone charged when you are playing. In fact, take a portable charger with you if you really need to. Trust me, it can be a lifesaver.

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Best casino bonuses: Top 10 UK casino bonuses & offers 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:10:00 +0000

Casino bonuses are the best way to get more value from your time spent gambling online, but finding the right deals isn’t easy.

A lot of casino bonuses have restrictive terms and conditions or don’t offer generous rewards. That’s why you need to know where to look and which casino bonus sites in the UK to play at.

My top casino offer for July

I’ve been in the gambling business since 2010, so I know how to access the top casino promotions. In this guide, I’ll reveal my secrets, including where to get the best casino bonuses for 2024.

My favourite casinos with bonus offers for UK players 2024

A closer look at the casinos with top casino bonuses

What makes my favourite UK bonus casino sites stand out from the crowd? Here are the facts, my thoughts, and some honest opinions:

1. Mr Vegas casino bonus

Best casino bonus: £200 first deposit match + 11 bonus spins
Wagering requirements: 35x
Eligible payment methods: All available payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 7,000+
Customer support: Contact form, 24/7 live chat, callback service
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

I’ll be honest; the Mr Vegas interface doesn’t float my boat. It’s easy to use because it has plenty of search filters, but the design does look dated. That being said, you can play over 7,000 games on your desktop or mobile, which is remarkable.

The welcome bonus is extremely generous in terms of top-end value; the only thing I’d change is the win cap. It’s a bit low, in my opinion, but that does help to keep your playthrough target at an acceptable level. Still, the max bonus could still be a little higher without making it impossible for the player to make their wagering contributions.

Mr Vegas Rainbow Fridays bonus

In terms of ongoing offers, few UK online casino operators are as creative as Mr Vegas. For example, Rainbow Fridays is a promotion that pays you a guaranteed prize (up to £300 per day) based on your previous week’s slot betting activity. I also love the Encore social casino feature because it allows you to chat, play and win special prizes.

Pros
Offer more than 7,000 casino games
Low casino bonus playthrough targets
Creative promotions
Win prizes through the Encore social casino feature

Cons
Interface needs freshening up
The limit on bonus wins could be increased

Visit Mr Vegas casino

2. Duelz casino promotion

Best casino bonus: £100 first deposit match + 100 bonus spins
Wagering requirements: 60x (45x for bonus spin wins)
Eligible payment methods: All available payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 1,400+
Customer support: 24/7 live chat, email (support@duelz.com)
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

I also show Duelz Casino some love because it’s a themed gambling site. The interface features animated backgrounds that bleed into everything this casino does. Put simply, the overarching theme creates a unique dynamic that makes your experience even more enjoyable.

In addition the welcome bonus is solid, but I like the playthrough targets to be lower. The 45x playthrough on bonus spin wins is just about acceptable, but the 60x on casino credits is a bit too high for my liking. That being said, a £100 deposit match in addition to 100 spins is a generous offer.

Duelz promotional tournaments

In terms of weekly promotions, my top pick is the 10% cashback offer. You can also complete missions that allow you to cast spells. These spells conjure up bonuses. This feature alone is more than you’ll get at other UK bonus casino sites.

Pros
Exciting themed casino
Unique bonus missions
Weekly cashback
High max bet with an active bonus

Cons
The minimum deposit for the welcome bonus is £20
Bonus playthrough could be lower

Visit Duelz casino

3. MrQ casino bonus

Best casino bonus: 5 no deposit spins + 30 first deposit spins welcome offer
Wagering requirements: Deposit and spend £10 – no playthrough
Eligible payment methods: All available payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 1,000+
Customer support: Email (support@mrq.com), live chat (8 am to 10 pm)
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

You’ll be happy to hear, like I was, that MrQ’s primary casino bonus is a no deposit hybrid offer. Once you use the bonus code “TALKSPORT35”, you’ll get 5 no-deposit spins, plus another 30 once you make a min 1st deposit of at least 10 pounds.

I like MrQ’s mobile-style casino interface, but I know some of you won’t. The use of white space does make the interface look a little sparse, but it’s ideal for those switching between desktop and mobile devices. I can also reassure you that the gaming lobby isn’t sparse.

MrQ has over 1,000 casino games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and video poker. Another highlight worth mentioning is bingo. Not many UK casino sites offer bingo, so the fact you can play it and claim bingo promotions is great.

MrQ slots interface

One fact I noticed during my MrQ review was that it paid out over £3 million in free cash in 2023. That’s impressive, and I can believe that because the free spins bonuses are attractive. Why? Because they don’t have any wagering requirements. That’s rare, but what’s even rarer in regard to a casino bonus, is the fact there aren’t any wagering requirements on the no deposit bonus.

Pros
Sign-up bonus and first deposit bonus
No wagering requirement on welcome bonus
Offers bingo and bingo promotions
Great casino for claiming mobile bonuses

Cons
Could offer more free spins for new customers
Only have 48 hours to use free spins

Visit MrQ casino

4. Winomania casino promotion

Best casino bonus: £100 deposit match + 100 bonus spins
Wagering requirements: 40x
Eligible payment methods: All available payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 700+
Customer support: Email (support@winomania.co.uk), live chat (6 am to 10 pm Mon-Fri/9:30 am to 6 pm Sat-Sun)
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

Let’s start with the negative. Winomania isn’t the best-looking online casino I’ve ever used. Finding games and casino bonuses is easy, but the interface does look dated. Fortunately, the positives outweigh the negatives. Winomania has a solid selection of games, and I liked the fact your 100 bonus spins are spread over four games.

Winomania VIP club

Beyond the welcome bonus, the standout casino bonus is the VIP program. This program is based on a bets-for-points basis. Points determine your VIP ranking, which, in turn, gives you access to an increasing number of perks, including personalised casino offers, special gifts and up to 20% cashback every week. In addition I like the fact you can redeem VIP points for exclusive bonuses and prizes.

Pros
Newbies get a £100 deposit match + 100 bonus spins
Great VIP rewards program
Plenty of time to hit bonus wagering targets
Weekly cashback

Cons
Interface needs to be redesigned
You only have 24 hours to use your bonus spins

Visit Winomania casino

5. Betway casino bonus

Best casino bonus: 125 bonus spins welcome offer
Wagering requirements: None
Eligible payment methods: Debit card
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 500+
Customer support: 24/7 live chat
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

I’ve always used Betway to bet on sports, but in recent years, I’ve dipped into its online casino platform. Why? Because a lot of the promotions it offers don’t have any wagering requirements.

In my opinion, it’s almost always worth taking a casino bonus that pays winnings in cash. My only issue with the Betway Casino welcome bonus is that you only have 7 days to use it. Personally, I’d like it to be 30 days.

Betway casino homepage

That point aside, my go-to games are Betway exclusives, such as Betway Cash Megaways. You can also play exclusive crash games and casual games like Soccer Striker. It’s rare for casino operators to have exclusive crash and casual games, so that’s another reason I like Betway.

Pros
More free spins for newbies than other top-rated UK online casinos
No wagering requirement on free spin wins
Exclusive casino games
Penny slots are ideal for novices

Cons
Only have 7 days to use your welcome bonus
First deposit must be with a debit card to get a bonus

Visit Betway casino

6. talkSPORT BET casino offer

Best casino bonus: Bet £30 to get 25 bonus spins welcome bonus
Wagering requirements: 40 (no playthrough on bonus spin wins)
Eligible payment methods: Debit card and Apple Pay
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 1,200+
Customer support: FAQ, contact form, 24/7 live chat
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

talkSPORT BET might have made its name in bookmaking, but I really like what it’s doing in the casino world and with its casino bonuses. The interface is extremely easy to use, and the layout makes it streamlined enough to work on all devices.

When it comes to games, slots are your best option. The one-touch filters, such as Drop & Wins, Daily Jackpots, and Megaways, are useful. I know you’re here for casino promotions, which is handy because talkSPORT BET has plenty of them.

talkSPORT BET Daily Drop prizes

I do think the wagering requirements for the welcome bonus are a little bit complicated, but the deal itself offers fantastic value for slot players and, in particular, novices. Something else that talkSPORT BET does better than other UK online gambling sites is hybrid promotions that combine casino and sports betting.

Pros
Great welcome bonus for slot players
Unique hybrid casino and sports betting bonuses
Excellent selection of slot games
Slick software

Cons
Wagering requirements are a bit too complicated
The main focus is on sports betting promotions

Visit talkSPORT BET casino

7. Bally Casino bonus

Best casino bonus: 90 bonus spins welcome offer
Wagering requirements: No playthrough (wager £10)
Eligible payment methods: All available payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.20
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 500+
Customer support: 24/7 live chat, contact form
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

Bally Casino is another US import, and like BetMGM, it’s found a way to ingratiate itself into our gambling culture. How? The promo team are playing into the fact that a lot of gamblers, such as you, play for fun. That’s why the welcome bonus doesn’t have any wagering requirements, i.e. you keep anything you win.

I also like the fact that Bally has been a trusted name in gambling since 1932 and that it offers a nice variety of games, including slots, table games, live poker, and Slingo. The interface is a bit lacklustre, but looks aren’t everything.

Bally casino welcome screen

Indeed, another reason I think Bally Casino is ideal for casual players is the fact it offers daily free games. All you have to do is deposit £10, and you can play a selection of games for free and keep anything you win.

Pros
90 Wager-free bonus spins for newbies
A lot of bonuses are paid in cash
Offers daily free games
High-quality selection of games

Cons
Interface isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing I’ve seen
Must opt-in manually to claim bonuses

Visit Bally casino

8. BetMGM casino promotion

Best casino bonus: 2x £100 first deposit match bonuses + up to 100 spins
Wagering requirements: 35x
Eligible payment methods: All available payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 2,000+
Customer support: FAQ, 24/7 live chat
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

BetMGM is a US import, but it’s quickly tapped into British gambling preferences. I say that because the team at BetMGM UK understands the value of giving customers something different. OK, so it has many of the same games you’ll find at my other recommended UK bonus casino sites.

However, once you get past that, you’ll find dozens of unique games and casino promotions. For example, alongside exclusive games such as BetMGM Strike MGM Grand Gamble, you can play for in-house jackpots known as MGM Millions.

BetMGM casino progressive jackpot

This progressive jackpot is added to a variety of games, including slots and live dealer games. I like that because you typically only get to play for progressive jackpots if you spin slots. Even better than that is the fact this jackpot regularly exceeds £17 million!

Pros
You can claim the welcome bonus twice
Low playthrough on bonuses
Prize wheel promotions offering trips to Las Vegas
Exclusive games and progressive jackpots

Cons
Must activate promotions manually
You only have 7 days to claim and clear bonuses

Visit BetMGM casino

My honourable mentions for UK casino bonuses

Not all casino bonuses were created equal. Still, that doesn’t mean some operators don’t deserve to be shown off, even if their offering isn’t exactly top-tier – the two casinos listed below still offer plenty of value to their players, in my opinion.

RedAxePlay casino bonus

Best casino bonus: £100 deposit match + 100 bonus spins
Wagering requirements: 50x
Eligible payment methods: All available payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: Not needed
Number of games: 2,000+
Customer support: 24/7 live chat and email (customersupport@instantgamesupport.com)
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

Like some other UK bonus casinos I’ve reviewed, RedAxePlay does look a bit dated. The overall design isn’t awful, but a few upgrades would certainly help its visual appeal. Fortunately, when you get into the particulars of this site, they stack up well.

There are plenty of slots and table games, but my personal favourites are the lottery draws and casual games like Yahtzee, Pachinko and Boss the Lotto. The £100 deposit match + 100 spins welcome bonus is solid, even though the playthrough is a little bit high.

RedAxePlay casino interface

One thing I did notice about RedAxePlay Casino is that it has different casino offers for every day of the week. This commitment to diversity, in tandem with a mission-based rewards program, is why I’ve added to my list of top 10 UK bonus casinos.

Pros
Impressive selection of casual casino games
New casino bonuses every day
Mission-based rewards program
Offers lottery-style games

Cons
Some bonus terms and conditions could be improved
The limit on bonus winnings could be higher

Visit RedAxePlay casino

777Cherry casino offer

Best casino bonus: 50+ spins welcome bonus
Wagering requirements: 65x
Eligible payment methods: All accepted payment methods
Free spins: Yes
Value per free spin: £0.10
Bonus code: WIZARD50
Number of games: 1,400+
Customer support: FAQ and contact form (replies within 2 business days)
Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission

777Cherry has some sweet and some not-so-sweet features. Overall, I think the interface needs an upgrade. However, you can create an account using PayPal, which is not only efficient but unique. Another not-so-sweet aspect of 777Cherry Casino is its bonus terms and conditions. I’d like the playthrough targets to be a bit lower.

The good news is that those issues don’t leave a sour taste. I like the variety of games you can play, and there’s a unique trophy system that gives you spins on the Mega Prize Wheel when you complete “fun” tasks.

777Cherry hot slots page

The main reason 777Cherry is on my list of UK bonus casino sites is its prize giveaways. These casino promotions give you a chance to win spins, cash and special gifts, such as Amazon and Just Eat vouchers. In my opinion, any casino operator that tries to do something different is worth trying.

Pros
Plenty of prize drop promotions
Win special prizes, such as Amazon vouchers
Earn bonuses by completing fun tasks
Instant sign-up using PayPal

Cons
Bonus playthrough is higher than the industry average
Welcome bonus can only be used on one slot

Visit 777Cherry casino

How I ranked sites with great casino bonuses

OK, so that’s my top UK online gambling sites for casino bonuses. Each one offers something unique, but how did I decide which brands to include in my list? I’ve been in this business since 2010, so that helps me sort the wheat from the chaff.

However, I don’t rely on intuition alone. Before I even start testing casino bonuses there is a single criterion that operators need to meet which is to be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. No casino can be deemed safe or trustworthy without it. I test each casino and review the following things to see if they can deliver on the promises they make.

Variety of bonuses and promotions

I like casino bonus sites that cover the basics when it comes to casino promotions. That means they offer no deposit bonuses, first-deposit bonuses, slot spins, and reload bonuses. Having all of these bonus types shows me that it is a quality casino. However, to be ranked among the online gambling industry’s elite, operators need to go beyond the basics. I look for casinos that have VIP programs, prize giveaways and cashback promos. Then, if I can find a unique promotion thrown into the mix, such as Mr Vegas Casino’s Rainbow Fridays, I’m truly impressed.

Fair and reasonable bonus terms

The true value of a casino bonus lies in its terms and conditions. The proverbial hoops you have to jump through to claim and clear bonuses matters. I make sure that every casino offer I recommend is legit and fair. Not only that, I make sure I shine a light on promotions that players across the board can claim without wagering more than they can afford. Also, I would like to point out the rights that casino players have, as you should be aware of them always.

Eligible payment methods

You’ll notice that some of the casino promotions I’ve mentioned so far have payment restrictions (Skrill and Neteller are often excluded, but Pay by Mobile and PayPal are almost always eligible). For example, you can only claim Betway Casino’s new customer bonus if you deposit £10+ with a debit card. I only recommend deals that limit the payment methods you can use if the overall value is exceptionally high. This is the case with Betway’s welcome offer, for example, but the more deposit types are accepted in general, the better the value for the player.

Games playable with casino offers

There will be slot games you can and can’t play with casino bonus credits, and the most common games new members can use to play through their initial stake contribution are Starburst, Book of Dead, Big Bass Bonanza, Fluffy Favourites and Big Bass Splash.

Similarly, the bets you make on certain games will have a greater weighting contribution than those made on other games. As with payment method exclusions, I like bonus offers that give you as much freedom as possible when it comes to gaming options and contribution weightings. After all, what is a bonus package worth if the bonus money and spins winnings never actually reach your account balance?

Top UK casino bonuses compared

Claiming the best UK online casino bonuses isn’t as easy as clicking a few links. There are terms and conditions you need to comply with if you want bonus credits, spins, and other rewards. Below is a breakdown of my favourite UK casino bonuses for 2024 and the wagering requirements you need to follow.

Casino	Bonus offer	Wagering requirement	Time to claim
Mr Vegas	£200 deposit match + 11 bonus spins	35x	30 days
Duelz	£100 deposit match + 100 bonus spins	45x	30 days
MrQ	5 no deposit spins + 30 first deposit spins	None	48 hours
Winomania	£100 deposit match + 100 bonus spins	40x	30 days
Betway	125 bonus spins	None	7 days
talkSPORT BET	Bet £30 to get 25 bonus spins	40x	7 days
Planet Sport Bet	Wager £20, get 50 bonus spins	10x	24 hours
Bally UK	Up to 90 bonus spins	None	30 days
BetMGM	2x £100 deposit match bonuses + up to 100 spins	35x	7 days
RedAxePlay	£100 deposit match + 100 bonus spins	50x	30 days
777Cherry	Win 50+ spins	65x	7 days

Casino bonus terms and conditions

I mentioned earlier how bonus terms and conditions (aka wagering requirements) need to be fair. These terms govern how casino bonuses are unlocked and, perhaps more importantly, how you release your reward. That’s why it’s important to look for promotions that don’t lock you into a deal that’s almost impossible to get out of without wagering huge amounts of money. Below are the wagering requirements I consider when I’m assessing online gambling bonuses:

Playthrough targets

Playthrough targets are the amount of money you need to wager to release a casino bonus. You’ll sometimes see playthroughs referred to as wagering requirements or rollovers. They all mean the same thing. It’s the amount you need to wager to release a bonus. By release, I mean convert bonus credits or winnings gleaned from a bonus (aka bonus winnings) to cash. That’s important because you can only withdraw cash from an online casino.

Therefore, you want the playthrough target to be as low as possible so it’s easy to realise the true value of a casino bonus. Playthrough targets will be quoted as a multiple of the bonus amount or the bonus + deposit amount combined. For example, a $20 bonus with a 10x playthrough means you need to wager $200 (i.e. 20 x 10) to convert your credits to cash. Finally, you forfeit an active bonus if you request a withdrawal before hitting your playthrough target. This is another reason you want the playthrough to be as low as possible.

Time limits

You won’t have until the end of time to claim your casino bonus or clear it (i.e. hit a playthrough target). The average time limit on most UK casino bonuses is 7 to 30 days.

Limits on winnings

It’s often the case that the amount of money you can win from a bonus bet or spins is limited. For example, the maximum amount you can win with bonus spins at RedAxePlay Casino is £20. This is standard practice and nothing to be concerned about. However, there are rare instances where casino operators won’t cap your winnings, such as the MrQ welcome bonus.

Minimum deposit

You will need to deposit a minimum amount to activate all deposit-based bonuses. The UK industry average is between £10 and £20. Anything over should cause you to question an offer’s true value, so you should scour each casino’s bonus policy for any signs of a fraudulently represented min deposit and wager reqs.

Game limitations

You may only be able to use bonus credits and spins on certain games. I try to find offers that give you as much free time as possible. However, it’s rare to find promotions that let you play 100% of the games a casino provides.

Game contribution

Not all bets are counted equally when it comes to clearing bonuses. Legit new online casinos and veterans alike have something known as game contribution weightings. This means a percentage of your total bet goes towards a playthrough target. The average contribution weightings are:

Slots and scratchcards = 100% of your bet goes towards a playthrough target
Table games, excluding blackjack = 15%-20% of your bet goes towards a playthrough target
Blackjack and live casino games = 10% of your bet goes towards a playthrough target

Bets on certain games might not contribute to your playthrough targets, so check the terms and conditions before you start playing.

Types of casino bonuses

How do you get extra value when you use your casino bonus? Below are the main bonuses you can get when you make real-money bets:

Welcome offers

These casino welcome bonuses are exclusively for new customers. You get them by using our sign-up links and, if necessary, entering promo codes. Welcome offers can be no deposit and/or deposit bonuses. They can include site credit or bonus spins.

Deposit bonus or match bonus

A match bonus gives you a reward equal to the value of your deposit. For example, if you deposit £100, you’ll receive £100 in bonus credit, like with matched betting sites. There will always be a cap on the amount of bonus credit you can get.

Reload bonuses

Reload bonuses are deposit bonuses for existing customers. They’re typically less lucrative than first deposit bonuses and matched offers. The average reload bonus is worth 25% of your deposit’s value. For example, if you deposit £100 and claim a 25% bonus, you’ll get £25 worth of bonus credit.

Cashback bonuses

Cashback bonuses give you a rebate on losses accrued under certain conditions. In general, these promotions require you to play specific games and at specific times to qualify. Then, if you incur a net loss, a rebate (usually between 10% and 20% of the loss) will be credited back to your account as bonus cash.

Free spins

Free spins, aka bonus spins, allow you to play slots without spending a penny. The spins will typically be valid for use on a nominated selection of slot games. Some free spins promos pay wins in bonus cash, which means you need to hit a playthrough target before requesting a withdrawal. However, some offers, such as those at Bally, MrQ, and talkSPORT BET, pay winnings in cash.

Loyalty program

Casino loyalty programs give you the ability to earn rewards based on the amount you play. The standard way casino operators do this is by giving you a certain number of points based on the amount you wager. These points can contribute to your VIP ranking, which, in turn, unlocks special rewards. Alternatively, loyalty points can be exchanged for bonuses and cash payments.

Seasonal bonuses

Whenever an event or a holiday comes up, operators tend to give special seasonal promotions so they would attract more players. They tend to be quite lucrative bonuses, but they do have some wagering requirements. Most importantly, they are very time-limited, so make sure to be quick to both claim them and use them.

Some of the seasonal bonuses:

Specific feature casino bonuses

This type of a casino bonus includes mobile specific bonuses, or bonuses that are limited to specific slot games, country specific bonuses, or certain payment methods. Some casinos even have promotions that are specific to their live casino section, for baccarat, blackjack or any other live game.

VIP casino bonuses

Exclusive benefits given to devoted or high-ranking players inside a casino’s VIP program are known as VIP casino bonuses. Higher deposit matching, cashback incentives, free spins, personal account managers, quicker withdrawal times, and invites to exclusive events are a few examples of these benefits. They are intended to reward devoted players and improve the gaming experience.

Non-sticky bonuses

A non-sticky bonus has many names, some but not limited to are – forfeitable bonus, parachute bonus and second-chance bonus. The biggest advantage of these kinds of bonuses is that you do not have to meet any kind of wagering requirements, which heightens your casino experience.

Deposit and bonus separation is a great way for both new and experienced users to take advantage of casino play. At casino bonus sites, first you play with your deposited money. If you win you can withdraw the money you won, and if you lose you start playing with the bonus funds, and then you have to meet the wagering requirements to withdraw.

Types of availability of bonus funds to players

Casino bonuses can also be separated by how the relationship between bonus funds and deposited money works. The bonuses can be differentiated by looking at how the bonus funds are allocated, managed, and made available to the player.

Each type of a casino bonus has specific rules regarding the separation of deposited and bonus funds, the conditions for unlocking or using the bonus, and the overall flexibility offered to the player. I will try to be as concise as possible, so I will structure the following sections by explaining the structure of the bonus type and its conditions.

Mixed Balance Bonus
Release Restricted Bonus
Cash Bonus Reward
Bonus Release in Instalments

Mixed Balance Bonus

Structure – Combines deposited funds and bonus funds into a single balance.
Conditions – Players may have to use both their deposit and bonus funds together, making it harder to differentiate between the two.

Release Restricted Bonus

Structure: Bonus funds are held separately and are only released under certain conditions.
Conditions: Players must meet specific criteria, such as wagering requirements, before the bonus funds are made available for use.

Cash Bonus Reward

Structure: Bonus is awarded as cash with fewer restrictions.
Conditions: Often comes with lower or no wagering requirements, allowing users to withdraw the bonus as real cash once minor conditions are met.

Bonus Release in Instalments

Structure: Bonus is released in increments rather than a lump sum.
Conditions: Players need to meet certain milestones or criteria (e.g., wagering a certain amount) to receive portions of the bonus over time.

Important casino bonus related terms to know

Wagering (Playthrough/Turnover) requirements –
Bonus code – A specific code that must be entered to claim a bonus
Eligible games – Also known as game restriction, the games that qualify for playing with bonus funds and count towards meeting wagering requirements
Game contribution – The percentage that different games contribute towards meeting the wagering requirements
Max bet limit – The maximum amount that can be bet per spin or hand while using bonus funds
Expiry date – The period within which the bonus and associated wagering requirements must be used or met
Cashable bonus – A bonus that can be withdrawn once the wagering requirements are met
Bonus abuse – Actions considered as exploiting bonus offers, such as creating multiple accounts
Withdrawal restrictions – Conditions that must be met before a player can make his withdrawals
Restricted countries – Some countries are excluded from a certain promotion
Free spins – A bonus offer that gives you a set number of bonus spins on specific slot games
Opt-in – It is necessary to actively choose to participate in the bonus offer
Bonus cap – The maximum amount of bonus money you can receive from a promotion
Excluded games – Only specific slot games are applicable for the promotion
Time-restricted bonus – A bonus that must be used within a timeframe

Advantages and disadvantages of casino bonuses

Write about the advantages and disadvantages of casino bonuses and give a summary in a table, by listing them out.

Advantages
You get free credits and/or spins for doing very little
Bonuses can help offset your losses
Some bonuses don’t have wagering requirements, which means you get free cash
You’re allowed to claim multiple bonuses at once from different casinos
Bonuses are a great way to reduce your overall risk and try games without wagering your money

Disadvantages
Bonus terms and conditions may restrict the games you can play
There may be limits on the amount you can bet and/or win when you have an active bonus
You need to bet money to clear certain bonuses

How do I sign up at an online casino and claim a welcome offer

You can join any of my recommended UK online casino sites and claim thousands of pounds in bonuses by following these simple steps:

Read my online casino reviews to find the right places to play.
Tap the sign-up link within my reviews to start the registration process.
Enter your details (and promo code, if required) on the casino’s website to create an account.
Verify your age and identity to complete the registration process.
Make a qualifying deposit to claim your reward. *Make you enter a promo code and/or activate the offer before making a deposit, if necessary.

How to maximise casino offers

If you want to maximise your chances of winning during your gameplay, make sure to look for bonuses with low wagering requirements and good odds that can be used on the casino games you love.

Even though it might seem enticing, be wary of any deposit offer that gives hundreds or even thousands of percent in boosts on your qualifying deposit – anything above 200% or 300% is likely to be more trouble than it’s worth in terms of bonus wagering and weighting requirements, so avoid a wager bonus promising 400%, 500%, 600%, 700%, 800%, 900% in bonus wins, and especially steer clear of those giving out 1000%, 2000%, 3000%, etc.

Also, pay attention to the spin value in a bonus spins offer, and check if the spin winnings are withdrawable as real money at the cashier. Make note of any withdrawal restrictions on your games bonus winnings, minimum and maximum deposit amounts, a potential staking requirement, etc., in the casino site user agreement.

Why trust me about casino bonuses in the UK?

Why should you take my advice when it comes to casino bonuses? As I mentioned earlier, I’ve been in the online gambling industry since 2010. I’ve seen it evolve, and I know what customers want based on first-hand experience and feedback. I also value integrity. A gambler lives and dies by their reputation, so I’ll only recommend offers I believe are worth claiming. Other than these reasons, here’s why you should trust my judgement:

I only recommend licensed UK online casinos, so everything is legal, legit and safe.
I test every product and speak to customer support agents to fully understand bonuses.
I try not to let my personal preferences influence my reviews.
I always look for the positives and negatives to give you an honest overview of each casino.
I let you make your own decisions based on the facts rather than push you into a deal you don’t want.

Q&A about casino bonuses

That’s just about all you need to know about casino game bonus offers. To ensure you never put a foot wrong, here are some final questions and answers. Commit these to memory, and you’ll be ready to get maximum value each time you play online casino games.

1. What are the best casino bonuses?

The best online casino bonuses UK customers can claim are the ones without any wagering requirements. These promotions allow you to claim bonus credits and use them to win cash prizes that can be withdrawn instantly.

2. What is the best casino site with free bonuses?

Some of the best UK casino sites for bonus offers are talkSPORT Bet, Mr Vegas and MrQ. I like these casinos because they offer a diverse selection of bonuses, and many of them are free from any wagering requirements.

3. What are casino bonus funds?

Casino bonus funds are credits you can use to play slots and table games, such as blackjack and roulette. You can’t withdraw bonus funds, but you can use them to win prizes. Some prizes can only be withdrawn once you’ve hit a playthrough target; others are paid in cash.

4. Is every casino bonus withdrawable?

No, you can’t withdraw casino bonus credits, but the money you win from using these credits can be withdrawn. Bonus winnings may be subject to wagering requirements, but certain offers allow you to withdraw winnings instantly.

5. What is a good casino bonus?

A good online casino bonus should give you a generous number of credits and/or bonus spins and not lock you into restrictive wagering requirements. An example of a generous welcome offer is the Mr Vegas £200 first deposit match and 11 bonus spins for new customers.

6. Can I win real money with a casino bonus?

Casino bonuses don’t provide any guarantee of a win, but it is definitely possible to win real money from them! If you’re hoping to hit a payline on a fruit machine, you’re in luck, as most casino bonuses are designed to be used on slots. If you want extra cash to use on something a bit more exotic, like dice games, you’ll have to make deposits on your own. These differences in game availability aren’t the same across all sites, however, so you might find a number of venues that allow you to take part in a promotion and spend the bonus sum as you like.

7. Can I claim a casino welcome offer multiple times?

No, welcome bonuses are claimable just once when you make your account. Welcome bonus offers always state that in their T&Cs.They are meant to provide as an introduction to the casino and a first taste of what it’s like to play for new players.

8. Can a bonus offer expire?

Yes, bonus offers can expire. The reasons for that can be multiple:

Seasonal bonuses – They are supposed to be just for a certain holiday
Preventing bonus abuse – Casino bonus sites try to prevent players from having too many bonuses at once
Deadline – in order to create a sense of urgency for players to use the bonus before the due date
Maintain the value of promotions – keeping the offers relevant, good and valuable

Final words & tips on how to make the most of your casino bonus

How do you get maximum value from my recommended casinos and, in turn, their bonuses? You do it by following these five tips:

Always read the terms and conditions to ensure a bonus is suitable for you.
Shop around for the best deals because there are hundreds out there.
Join multiple online casinos so you can claim a variety of bonuses.
Play slots, especially on new sites, because they have the best contribution weightings, which means you’ll clear bonuses faster.
Stick to the rules and don’t try to game the system because you’ll have your bonuses removed and, potentially, your account closed.

Find more special casino bonuses:

Best £10-pound deposit bonuses

About the author

Daniel Smyth

Follow Daniel on Twitter @DanSmythThePoet

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Live casino games – Best live dealer games 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:05:00 +0000

Like live sports betting, I’ve found that live dealer casino games have become one of my favorite ways to play at online casinos in the UK.

On your screen, you can watch the dealer shuffle cards or spin the wheel from the comfort of your own seat, making the experience even more immersive. Plus, the chat function allows you to communicate with the dealer and other players, adding a social aspect to the games.

My favourite live casino game of the month for July 2024 is Cash or Crash – read this Cash or Crash review!

My top casino offer for July

It gives you the opportunity to deal with live dealers in real-life casino settings with your favourite games. These live games offer an authentic experience, complete with real-time information shared among participants to ensure fair play.

As the pool of live casino offerings continues to expand daily, I find it can be quite challenging to determine which ones are the best. That’s why I’ve taken the time to compile a list of the top live dealer games and casinos for UK players, making the decision a little easier for myself. With so many options to explore and new experiences to try, I’m confident I’ll discover a live casino game that perfectly suits my preferences.

Top UK live casinos 2024

Best live casino games

Roulette

No live casino section would be complete without some live roulette action. Personally, I’m drawn to roulette because it’s one of the oldest and most iconic casino games in the world. You know the drill – a ball is dropped around a spinning wheel divided into 37 spaces (or more, depending on the version of the game), and I get to place my bet to predict where it will land. There are various outcomes I can bet on, with the classic red/black bet being the most popular. However, it’s worth noting that jackpots aren’t a common outcome for these wagers.

The most common versions I typically find available at every casino roulette table are European roulette, American roulette, Lightning roulette, and a few others. These games are often provided by Playtech, Microgaming, and Evolution Gaming, as these companies are among the biggest software providers for virtual casino tables and mobile games.

Blackjack

Blackjack is the most popular card game in the world, and a big part of its attraction lies in its simplicity. It stems from a French game called “vingt-et-un” and the goal of the game is simple: Players need to beat the dealer by scoring, or getting as close to, the number 21 using a combination of cards. At blackjack tables, be they live dealer tables or virtual, players are dealt two cards, and then need to make the decision to stick with what they have, or hit and receive another card. Besides the classic game, there are also numerous variations and exciting side bets to appeal to every player’s taste.

Among its variations, aside from regular blackjack, you can find Spanish 21, Super Fun 21 (a branded version of blackjack), pontoon, etc.

Poker

On the front of live dealer table games, there is poker. Poker is the chess of card games. Whether it’s video poker or the live version, I love how players match wits in every round, aiming to form the best hand using a combination of their hole cards and the community cards on the table. Of course, the game requires a lot of patience and judgement, with players trying to outmanoeuvre the others at the table to win. Like many of the other games on this list, there are plenty of variations, like three-card poker, four-card poker, Mississippi Stud, and Caribbean Stud poker, Let It Ride, but Texas Hold’Em is still the king of poker.

For me, poker sites provide an exciting avenue to experience the thrill of playing online poker for real money. I appreciate the fast payouts they offer, which can be completed in a matter of minutes, allowing me to enjoy my winnings almost instantly.

I particularly enjoy playing at Pokerstars, where I can delve into everything from the classic style of Texas Hold’em to Omaha and beyond. With just a stable internet connection and my mobile device in hand, I can dive into the thrilling world of online poker, competing against players from all corners of the globe. It’s an exhilarating experience that I always look forward to.

Baccarat

In the game of baccarat, players are betting on which player will have the hand closest to 9. In the game, both the player and dealer are dealt two face-down cards. Players then bet whether their hand or the dealers will win. If cards dealt are higher than 9, then they are added together and the first digit is dropped. For example, a hand of 9 and 3 comes to 12, so you remove the 1 and the hand is worth 2. There are various standing rules that can be played in the game, with different casinos playing in different ways. Be sure to check the rules of the game and the variation being played before you place your bets.

Craps

Craps is a popular casino game that is played with two dice. Players make bets on the outcome of the roll or a series of rolls. In these dice games, the players take turns rolling the dice and the whole game can get very fast-paced and intense. Since the rules are very simple, it’s fairly easy to pick up because of straightforward odds and numbers, but hard to master.

Dream Catcher

Live casino games don’t have to all be about cards or roulette wheels. Evolution’s Dream Catcher live game has become one of the most popular on the internet and it involves neither. The game is based around a giant money wheel. The wheel has 54 segments. Players then bet on a segment, and if they win, their bet is multiplied by that number.

Game Shows (Deal or no deal)

Ever wanted to feel like you’re in your favourite TV show? Live casino game shows give you the opportunity to do just that. Many TV shows have been adapted for live casinos, but my favourite is Deal or No Deal. The game plays out exactly as it does on TV, with players attempting to land the biggest win possible by beating the banker and making strategic choices.

Monopoly Live

Monopoly Live is an exciting live casino game that combines the classic board game with the thrill of a live dealer, giving players the chance to experience the thrill of a real-life Monopoly game without having to leave the comfort of their own home, while also having the opportunity to win big with instant payouts.

Alternative games

Although not common, live casinos sometimes include live versions of popular virtual titles, such as sic bo, bingo, pai gow, keno, lottery games, Big Six and other Wheel of Fortune variations, etc. Progressive jackpot games are also a staple at most online venues offering substantial payout opportunities in the form of cash prizes.

Play live casino games. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

How to play live casino games online

Log in to your preferred online casino and click on the live casino or live dealer tab.
Once there, filter through the games to find the one you are looking for.
The game will then be loaded up via a live stream.
Players can then follow the dealer’s instructions and place their bets.
Wait until all bets have been placed and the game will begin.

Best live casino for poker: 10bet

10bet is personally one of my favorite gaming websites. I love accessing many of its fantastic poker games through the 10bet site and exploring its live casino section. There’s such a wide range of poker variations available, and the traffic is always bustling, ensuring there’s plenty of action to keep me entertained.

Highlights
Multiple poker tables
Lots of traffic

Visit 10bet casino

Best live casino site for blackjack: Dream Vegas

Dream Vegas is personally one of my favorite casino sites in the UK. I love exploring its stylish layout and wide selection of live blackjack titles. The Blackjack lobby from Pragmatic Play is particularly impressive, offering an excellent variety of games. Additionally, I enjoy playing the brilliant Blackjack First Person live game from Evolution hosted on the site.

Highlights
Loads of blackjack variations
Powered by Evolution and Pragmatic Play

Visit Dream Vegas casino

Best live casino for roulette: Grosvenor Casinos

Grosvenor is the only casino on my list to have physical locations across the UK, and that experience really shows with their live casino offering. Their live roulette games are streamed directly from some of their venues, adding that extra level of authenticity and creating a truly immersive experience for players.

With a blend of the traditional brick-and-mortar setting and the convenience of playing anywhere, Grosvenor successfully delivers top-notch gaming experiences.

Highlights
Games live streamed for Grosvenor venues
Highly experienced dealers

Visit Grosvenor Casinos

Best live casino for baccarat: Bally UK

Bally Casino is at the top of my list of best live casinos for baccarat because of the wide variety of baccarat variants it offers. I really appreciate that the site collaborates with Evolution and Pragmatic Play, providing me with a selection of over 30 different live baccarat games to choose from. This includes speed baccarat, lightning baccarat, and Salon Prive baccarat, ensuring there’s always something exciting to play.

Highlights
Over 30 different baccarat games
Top-quality streams

Visit Bally casino

Why are live casino games so popular?

In my opinion, live casino games provide players with an authentic casino experience from the comfort of their own homes. It allows you to have interactions with real-life dealers and other players, all while sitting on your sofa or at your desk, giving you the best of both worlds. For many players, playing virtual card games and slots just doesn’t do justice to the casino experience, and that’s where live casino games step in. It can also offer the chance to interact with other players and watch different games get played.

This is similar to the appeal live betting on their favourites at a sportsbook holds for casino players who are also fans of greyhound racing or horse racing, for example. The feeling of being plugged into the action and seeing your cash stakes multiply in real time is like no other.

With so many casino options available and ample game variety, you have the chance to customize their gaming experience to your liking, from choosing the type of game you want to play, to selecting the difficulty level, to even deciding the platforms you want to play on, making it an exciting and rewarding experience for everyone.

My top 5 tips for playing live casino games

Apart from considering standard factors like customer service, bet multipliers, banking options, mobile apps, safety, the VIP reward program, house edge, etc., when choosing a live casino establishment to open an account with, I have some additional tips specifically for playing live casino games.

1. Learn important strategies

There are various methods I can use when playing specific games. For instance, I rely on Basic Strategy in Blackjack to make quick decisions about what to do with each hand. Similarly, when playing poker, I often utilize Game Theory Optimal to aid my decision-making process. While it’s unrealistic to learn every strategy for every game, and none of them can guarantee a win, they can certainly help minimize losses and enhance my enjoyment of the game.

2. Manage your bankroll

The key rule to gambling, in my opinion, is to never bet more than you can afford to lose. Managing your bankroll is a vital skill that all players should master. Becoming bankroll savvy will serve you well and help you enjoy your live casino experience. Pay close attention to game weighting on deposit bonuses and the spins’ value in any offer you take, as you might end up wasting time and money if you don’t keep your bankroll in mind at all times.

By understanding and adhering to your limits, both in terms of the amount of money you are willing to spend and the amount of time you are willing to play, you can ensure that your live casino experience is both enjoyable and responsible.

3. Take advantage of live casino offers

Many of the operators I have listed in this guide will offer their players a selection of bonuses and promotions geared towards live casino games. Taking advantage of these can be a great way of enjoying some live casino action courtesy of the casino operator. It can also be a useful way to try out different live casino games, so be on the lookout for a bonus code, promo code, or reload offer, aside from the usual welcome bonus.

Casino promotions are a great way to get extra value from your gaming experience, as they can provide players with additional funds to play with, as well as special offers and promotions that can be used to increase their chances of winning big at the casino. However, be on the lookout for high wagering requirements for bonuses that build on your deposits, as they are a staple in the industry – this applies to live dealer casinos as well.

Other eligibility and collection details related to your casino bonus to pay attention to are whether it’s tied to a specific platform (e.g., the casino’s Android smartphone app), whether it’s a deposit bonus or a no-deposit option, or cashback, whether there are any deposit or withdrawal restrictions based on the payment methods used (usually you can only claim bonuses on deposits made with Visa, PayPal, and Mastercard), and whether the match bonus is tied to slot games (e.g., Book of Dead, Starburst, etc.). You can find this info on the promotional page in the bonus terms, and check out casino reviews to see how beneficial an offer really is.

4. Watch others play

In some instances, you may be able to watch other people play live casino games. Watching other players can help you understand the rules, and in games like poker, even improve your gameplay as well.

Table games, such as poker, blackjack, and baccarat, are a great way to have fun, as they provide an opportunity to practice strategy and hone your skills while also providing a chance to socialize and learn from other players, who can help you understand the rules and, in some cases, even improve your gameplay.

5. Mix it up

All of the casinos I have listed offer a range of live casino games for you to play. Trying out new games can be a great way of enhancing your online casino experience. The option to play tv-show games and bonus-wheel offerings like Dream Catcher is unique to the live casino world and it’s something I recommend players take advantage of.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, exciting game of chance, then three-card poker is the perfect game for you; with its simple rules and quick payouts, you can play and win in no time at all, and with its three-card draw, you can enjoy the thrill of the game and the potential for big wins in just a few short rounds.

All in all, for a satisfying gambling experience at live dealer casino sites, always keep track of game availability for every bonus package, make sure you can easily reach customer support if there are some payment option compatibility issues (or any other reason members might need help), remember the spins value and ticket value when making wagering contributions, and check that there’s a link towards at least one gambling help body with your establishment of choice.

Benefits of playing live casino games

Live casino games are becoming increasingly popular among online gamers. With the advancement of technology, players can now experience the thrill of playing in a real casino without ever leaving the comfort of their own home. Live casino games offer a unique gaming experience that is unlike any other.

Players can interact with a real-life dealer and other players in real time, giving them the feeling of being in a real casino. The dealer will be in the same virtual room as the players, and they can communicate with each other through the chat feature. This makes the experience more immersive and realistic. Players can also observe the dealer’s movements and reactions, which adds to the feeling of being in a real casino.

Casino sites offer a variety of features that provide players with an immersive experience, such as realistic graphics and sound effects, making it a great alternative for those who can’t make it to a physical casino, even if they’re playing on mobile devices.

What to avoid when playing live dealer games

Like a real casino venue, there are certain rules and etiquette you should follow when you play at a live casino.

Customers should always be respectful of the casino staff and other players, be aware of the house rules and etiquette, and follow the instructions of the dealers; additionally, they should be mindful of their own behavior and conduct, as well as that of their fellow players, in order to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience for all.

First and foremost, it is important to respect the dealer. Live casinos have zero tolerance for abuse and you will be instantly removed. The same applies if you are interacting with other players or using a live chat.

Another thing I should stress is to never chase losses and make decisions based on superstition. Managing your bankroll is the key to having a good time when betting online, and players should never bet more than they can afford to lose. It is important to remember that you are never ‘due’ a win. Finally, make sure your payment options allow for fast withdrawals, so you don’t end up waiting a week for your winnings.

How do live dealer games work?

Live dealer games are streamed directly to a player’s desktop or mobile device from either a live studio or mobile casino. The location the game is streamed from is going to depend on which casino you opt to use, though, in most cases, game providers use studios.

Players will join a live casino game where they will be able to see a high-quality stream of the table, roulette wheel, or game set. They will then place their bets as normal and watch the game play out. When the result has come in, they can leave the game.

Are live casino games rigged?

No. All live casinos in the UK are regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission.

The outcome of the United Kingdom Gambling Commission’s regulation is that UK operators must adhere to the industry’s highest standards of fairness, ensuring that players can trust that the results of their gambling activities are fair and that their overall gaming experience is a positive one.

Any casino caught cheating would immediately lose its licence. The best live casinos are also tested and approved by third parties, just to add that extra level of security and assurance for their players – look for the UKGC logo in the casino’s footer if you want to ensure the highest standard of safety at your venue of choice.

Which live casino has the fastest cash-out?

Obviously, you would always prefer to get your money sooner rather than later. If this is a particular priority for you though, I would recommend Bally UK. Quite simply, it provides the fastest cash-outs around, with the processing time often being instant for all methods except bank transfers.

Payouts are often incredibly fast, with most methods offering instant processing times, meaning you can enjoy your winnings right away, while bank transfers may take a bit longer to complete.

Best game show casino games

If you want to learn more about live casino game shows, check out the reviews below.

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

Best online casino for UK players in July 2024

Betting Reporter — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

There are hundreds of online gambling sites to choose from, so finding a good one should be easy, right? Wrong.

Between unlicensed sites, and those without enough games, promotions, or payment options, finding the best online casino isn’t easy.

My top casino offer for July

Bad casinos make themselves look good with flashy marketing, and I don’t want you to fall for these cheap tricks, so here are the sites I’ve tested and recommended.

My list of the best online casinos & bonuses in 2024

If you enjoy gambling online, then take a look at my list of the best UK casino sites that offer everything you need for a great gaming experience:

Mr Vegas – 100% up to £200 & 11 no-deposit spins
Duelz – 100% up to £100 & 100 free spins
talkSPORT BET casino – Get up 150 no-wager free spins
MrQ – 5 no-deposit spins & 30 free spins
BetMGM – Up to £200 in cash & 100 Free Spins on Big Bass Splash
Hotstreak Slots – 10 no deposit spins & 100 Big Bass Bonanza spins BASS20
Pink Casino – 50 free spins 100% up to £150
VoodooDreams – 100% up to £50 & 50 Free Spins on Book of Dead!
Lottomart – 100% up to £200 deposit match; 100 free spins on Big Bass Bonanza
888casino – 88FS and 200% deposit bonus up to £50
Betway Casino – 125 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza
777Cherry – Use code WIZARD50 to win 50+ FS
Virgin Casino – 100 free spins
bet365 – Stake £10 & get 100 Free Spins
WinWindsor – Win up to 1,000% Bonus
Bally Casino – 30 free spins
Cosmic Spins – 100% up to £100 and 100 free spins
Dream Vegas – 100% match bonus up to £300 + 150 bonus spins
Neptune Play – 100% up to £50 & 110 extra spins
Magic Red – 100% up to £100 & 20 bonus spins
PUB Casino – 100% up to £100
Casumo – 100% up to £25 & 20 Bonus Spins
Rainbow Riches – Get 30 free spins if you play £10
Winomania – 100% up to £100 & 100 bonus spins
NetBet – Up to 500 free spins on your first deposit
Grand Ivy – £300 bonus & 25 free spins
Slots Royale – Up to 500 free spins on Big Bass Splash
PriveWIN – 100% up to £100 & free spins
PlanetSport Bet – Bet 50 free spins
SpinHill – Code “Blue” to get up to 500 free spins
21Casino – Get 121% up to £100 & 21 free spins
10bet – 50% up to £250
King Casino – Up to £150 + 50 extra spins
Vegas Mobile – Up to £1000 + 100 free spins
Videoslots – 100% up to £200 & 11 no-deposit spins
Swift Casino – 100% up to £50 + 50 free spins on Book of Dead
LeoVegas – Up to £100 + 50 free spins on Big Bass Splash

Pro tip: Always compare bonuses from different online casinos before signing up!

What do I look for when choosing the top online casino

I’m giving you a cheat sheet to remember every time you step into a virtual venue:

Find the license information – UKGC approval is what you want.
Connections to gambling support organizations, such as BeGambleAware, or GamStop – if things stop being fun, you need to know who to talk to.
Customer support availability and response times – what use is a chatbot when you can’t get your money? Real people behind the keyboard are the way to go.
Game availability – I’ve waxed on and on about variety and quality, so you know what to look for.
Available payment options – the more the merrier!
Payout times – the shorter the better!
Generous welcome bonuses, promotions, and loyalty programs – bonuses are always a balancing act, but some sort of incentive for players is to be expected.
Reviews from other players – expert players like me and the thousands of recreational casino members are your most invaluable source of unbiased information.

When you scroll down a little further, you’ll see exactly how each of these factors impacts your casino experience.

#1 talkSPORT BET

My favourite casino on the UK market

Established: 2022
Welcome bonus: Get up to £100 & 100 free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 1,000+
Highest RTP slot: 96.71% – Big Bass Bonanza
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: VISA, Mastercard, Apple Pay, bank transfer,
Payout speed: 1-3 days

Trustpilot rating : 3.8/5
AskGamblers rating : N/A

Promotions

One of the newest online casinos on my list is talkSPORT BET. This operator really understands how to bring the best online gambling experience. And not to forget the welcome package, I claimed £30 in bonuses after signing up at talkSPORT BET and wagering just £10, plus my extra spins on Big Bass Bonanza. The 40x wagering requirements were a bit disappointing though, but I could understand the best casino sites in the UK not wanting people to abuse their generosity.

Signing up was easy enough though – I clicked on the prominent sign-up button, gave the casino all of my essential information, and used my ID to confirm the data – pretty standard stuff.

Loyalty program

Unfortunately, talkSPORT BET doesn’t have a loyalty program for casinos yet. However, knowing about their talkSPORT BET football rewards club I have no doubt that once they make their casino loyalty program it will bring amazing casino experience!

Mobile Play

For all you on-the-go players out there, you’ll be happy to hear I found the talkSPORT BET website to be fully functional on mobile browsers. No app yet, but there’s plenty of time to rectify that and I’ll make sure to tell you all about it.

What is unique about them?

talkSPORT BET clearly doesn’t skimp on their KYC procedures. I reached the games lobby directly and found 200+ slot titles – not an overwhelming amount, but we need to remember this casino is pretty fresh on the scene and will be adding more daily.

The games include classic, jackpot, branded, and Megaways titles, but I was most intrigued by the casino’s “Vegas” section, listing games from multiple categories that are replicas of games from brick-and-mortar establishments. I have to say I appreciate this kind of extra-mile dedication to user experience, so this left me feeling pretty well-catered-to.

At the time of writing I can’t have the special feature section end without mentioning the £20,000 raffle. Every time you wager £10 you earn 1 raffle ticket, capped at 50 per day, if a raffle ticket has between 3 and 6 same digits you can earn up to 50 bonus spins.

Depositing and withdrawing funds

I found that the minimum deposit and withdrawal limit at talkSPORT BET is £5 which is quite nice. However, I wasn’t really happy with the amount of deposit method options. There are only a couple of options:

Apple Pay
Visa
Mastercard
Bank transfer

Depending on the method of withdrawal the withdrawal time will be between 1 and 3 business days.

talkSPORT BET casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Big Bass Splash	96.71%	Bonus game with modifiers
Big Bass Bonanza	96.71%	Cash collect and bonus feature
Starburst	92.05%	Starburst Wilds

Customer support

Just to be thorough, I connected with the casino’s support team through live chat, SMS, X, and Facebook, and the service staff members I spoke to were polite and helpful, so I can round up this talkSPORT BET casino review with a proverbial gold star. They also have a great Help centre page that has everything from account creation to deposits and withdrawals.

Who is talkSPORT BET best for?

This phrase is overused, but the casino interface at talkSPORT BET truly is user-friendly, for beginners in particular. More or less everything is reachable with a single click of a prominent button, and there are plenty of low-budget games – 10p Roulette, anyone? – readily available for those with modest bankrolls.

Pros
Excellent selection of low-stakes games
Casino games and sports betting
Daily in-house jackpots and prize drops
In-app link to talkSPORT radio

Cons
Could offer more payment options

Visit talkSPORT BET casino

#2 Mr Vegas Casino

Best online UK casino for game variety

Established: 2017
Welcome bonus: 100% bonus up to £200 + 11 no-wager spins, new customers only
Number of games: 6,000+
Highest RTP slot: 96.21% – Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: Visa, Visa Electron, Mastercard, Skrill, euteller and Neteller
Payout speed: 48 hours

Trustpilot rating : 1.7/5
AskGamblers rating : 5.7/10

Promotions

One of the main perks at Mr Vegas is the two-fold welcome bonus. You can choose between 11 wager-bonus spins and a standard deposit match up to a fairly generous £200 pounds. I went for the spins I didn’t have to wager first, and played them on the designated game (Pink Elephants 2 in this case, but it won’t always be that) – won a decent sum, too, and it all went straight into my pocket since I was free from having to wager them. As I mentioned, signing up meant I qualified for a 100% deposit bonus too. There is also a range of ongoing promotions, such as “Rainbow Fridays”, where I found myself in a position to win up to £300 per day.

Rainbow Fridays and Rainbow Treasure

Mr Vegas appreciates loyal players, after all. However, it doesn’t have a loyalty program in its true form. Or rather it doesn’t have a rewards program we are all accustomed to. What it has is Rainbow Fridays. The more you play the more real winnings that do not need to be wagered you’ll win. The Rainbow Treasure is awarded to all players each Friday. The calculation for it is calculated based on the:

Total amount of bets made that week
RTP’s of the specific games played

I was able to accrue this by playing any slot game, video slots, jackpot games or any live casino. And I was able to track my progress through my account by clicking on the “My Rainbow Treasure” in “My Account”.

Of course there are some restrictions applied. Rainbow Treasure cannot be combined with any other bonus or promotion.If I had activated any other bonus, I would need to first complete it or fail it in order to claim the Rainbow Treasure.

Mobile play

Mr Vegas doesn’t have a mobile app, but I had no trouble with using the mobile browser version. I created an account on the phone, deposited, played and withdraw my funds.

Mr Vegas features

In terms of game-collection size, Mr Vegas is one of the biggest online casinos in the UK, so I wasn’t exactly surprised to find over 6000 games in its lobby. You wouldn’t know it from the dated interface, but this is one of the premier online casinos licensed to operate in the UK by the Gambling Commission and Malta Gaming Authority. As such, those thousands of games were provided for me (and you) by star-studded developers, including Microgaming, NetEnt, and Play’n GO.

I took the most popular slots for a spin (excuse the pun) – Gates of Olympus, Big Bass Splash, Starburst, Big Bass Bonanza and Book of Dead, the works – and wasn’t disappointed, but I rarely am with the classics.

It was also pleasing to find plenty of table games, including variants of blackjack, live baccarat and roulette, which is a nice touch, in such a slots-heavy casino. The live dealer games I tried were from Evolution, Playtech, and Pragmatic Play, but there are some less well-known studios there too.

A truly special feature that Mr Vegas offers is the Encore Lobby. It provided me with a chance to show my competitive nature while playing slot games. In order to start I needed an Encore ticket and a buy-in. Once I clicked on the Encore lobby a pop-up window appeared, it was an Encore lobby interface. And I wasn’t very happy when I saw it as it looks really old, and a bit unappealing.

However, even if the looks aren’t there this is still one of the best features for a great online casino. I could have chosen either Sit & Go (it starts instantly as soon as a required amount of players join) or Scheduled Encores (they start at a certain time, no matter the amount of people playing). I was also able to categorise the competitions by all kinds of stuff like amount of people, buy-in, game etc. This truly made my casino experience even more enjoyable.

They also have a page dedicated to showcasing the RTPs of all their games which makes them extra trustworthy.

Mr Vegas casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead	96.21%	Expanding symbols
Big Bass Amazon Extreme	96.07%	Modifiers during Free Spins
Pirots 2	94.00%	CollectR mechanics

Money

A good number of payment methods are accepted, but I went for PayPal. Withdrawing cash took up to 48 hours to complete during testing.

Customer Support

I spoke with customer service reps and they were quite helpful, responsive and practical in answering all my questions. A big plus is that they’re available 24/7. They have live chat that is operated by a chatbot at first and they also have a “Have Us Call You” feature, where I was able to ask a question and tell them at which time I would like for them to call me.

Who is Mr Vegas best for?

All in all, Mr Vegas will be my go-to for trying new games, as there seems to be no end to them – I recommend you give it a try, too.

Pros
Over 6,000 games to enjoy
Fast withdrawals with no processing fees
Live chat support is available
Exclusive jackpots through the “Wheel of Vegas”

Cons
No mobile app to download

Visit Mr Vegas casino

#3 Duelz Casino

My recommended casino for a double welcome bonus

Established: 2018
Welcome bonus: 100% up to £100 & 100 free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 1,500+
Highest RTP slot: 96.71% – Big Bass Bonanza
Minimum deposit: £20
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, MuchBetter, paysafecard, Skrill
Payout speed: Instant (Visa and Mastercard take 2-4 bank days)

Trustpilot rating : 1.7/5
AskGamblers rating : 5/10

Casino rewards

I gave my info, confirmed my ID, and was well on my way to playing one of the 1,000+ casino games on offer with both my extra cash and the free spins I received as a warm welcome. The fun never seems to stop at Duelz, and I have to say I enjoyed every minute of it.

Most offers at Duelz work on a bonus funds system which falls under wagering requirements. While the bonus money needs to be wagered 45 times, or 30 times for certain bonuses, the actual money can be taken out whenever you’d like.

They also have bonus spins offers which need to be wagered 45 times as well, while there are occasional real cash bonus spins, which have no wagering requirement.

Loyalty program

The Duelz casino loyalty program works on the same principle as all other standard loyalty programs. It is based on lifetime deposits, it provides you with bonus funds, has you earning points that help you get higher in tiers, and the higher the tier the better the rewards. You also have 6 tiers of chests that you can open in order to get exclusive bonuses.

What is different about Duelz that other casino loyalty programs don’t have is the spells and the quests that are in theme with the website which made the experience more fun for me. I honestly enjoyed their loyalty program more than any other.

Remote Play

You can play via your desktop or mobile with no compatibility, but that’s par for the course. Duelz is a quick-loading, responsive casino that is ideal for mobile users. To utilise Duelz mobile casino, all you have to do is log in through your browser, no download needed.

Duelz casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Starburst	92.05%	Starburst Wilds
Big Bass Bonanza	96.71%	Free spins
Gold Blitz EXTREME	92.00%	Rising Rewards Jackpot

What is unique about Duelz?

Do you like themed venues? I know I do. So I was pretty stoked to test out an online operator that combines great gaming options and generous bonuses with a themed interface. It goes without saying (but I’ll say it anyway), Duelz Casino has United Kingdom Gambling Commission and Malta Gaming Authority licences – you’re in safe hands here.

I liked the animated sign-up screen, and the only way you could miss the registration button is if you looked in the opposite direction from your screen. In my view, the defining feature of Duelz is its theme. The interface has an animated background that gives the site a sense of vibrancy that other casinos lack. I also like how the adventure theme permeates the promotions lobby, so you get to take part in quirky challenges that allow you to unlock bonuses and loyalty rewards.

Slot titles like Big Bass Splash and Book of Ra were the first in my testing line, but I made some time to try out blackjack as well, and was pleased to find novel variants of roulette, too – Duelz does its level best to be an all-round establishment. You can play via your desktop or mobile with no compatibility, but that’s par for the course.

Deposits and withdrawals

What I really like about Duelz is the fact that they have a truly amazing page detailing all the information regarding depositing your money and withdrawing your funds. All depositing methods are instant, while only 2 of the withdrawals are not instant.

Another great thing regarding payment methods at Duelz is that they accept most of the popular e-wallets.

Customer service

There is customer support in the form of a live chat. But you need to have an account and be a depositing player in order to contact them, which is a big minus.

Who is Duelz casino best for?

My top tip is to check out the live casino lobby. The slots and digital table games are great, but Duelz has a larger collection of live dealer tables than almost every other top UK online casino.

Pros
Impressive selection of jackpot games
Themed interface and promos
Great welcome bonus package
Instant withdrawals

Cons
Software is resource-heavy

Visit Duelz casino

#4 MrQ Casino

Best no-deposit-bonus casino

Established: 2018
Welcome bonus: 5 no-deposit spins + 30 free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 900+
Highest RTP slot: 96.71% – Big Bass Splash
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Pay by Mobile
Payout speed: 1-5 working days

Trustpilot rating : 4.1/5
AskGamblers rating : 5.9/10

Player rewards

I’m hot on the slots offer because anything you win from your free spins can be withdrawn instantly. Very few welcome bonuses pay winnings in cash, so the fact you can get something without any wagering requirements is worth shouting about.

By using our welcome bonus code “TALKSPORT35” you will be able to earn 5 free spins for the Starburst slot game without any deposit or wagering requirements. Some restrictions with other bonuses may apply. Also 30 bonus spins after wagering your £10 stake isn’t bad at all.

In general I found that MrQ offers a lot of bonuses, from referring a friend where you can both earn 10 bonus spins, to tournaments. Check their promotions page for more information.

Bonuses for existing players

There isn’t a loyalty program like I am used to. But there is a Daily Roulette Drop that you can play from Monday to Sunday. It works on a points system, where you can exchange points for bonus spins.

Remote play

An important thing about any online casino is to have a working app. And MrQ does have it. Seamless play, fast loading speed, they have it all. The reviews on Google Play Store, might not look nice, but when you actually read them it turns out that people are just dissatisfied with not winning.

Reviews:

2.8 out of 220 reviews on Google Play Store
4 out of 499 reviews on Apple Store

MrQ casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Big Bass Splash	96.71%	Fish paying symbols
Big Bass Bonanza	96.71%	Cash collect and bonus feature
Starburst	96.09%	expanding wilds, pays both ways & respins

What makes them special?

What makes MrQ one of the UK’s most popular online casino sites? In my opinion, it’s right up there with the leading online gambling operators for two reasons:

It has a fantastic no deposit welcome bonus for fans of slots.
The interface is quirky, and it has an excellent selection of live dealer games.

It’s also significant that the interface is quirky. Online casino gaming is meant to be fun, so anything that contributes to that vibe gets my vote. The live dealer games also contribute to this because there are tons of game shows, including Monopoly, Funky Time, and Boom City, and they’re as fun to play as they seem, at least according to my gaming experience.

A couple hours for withdrawals

I had no trouble withdrawing my winnings via debit, so I can’t really rag too hard on MrQ about that. I found that they are really keen on emphasising that their withdrawal speed is super fast, a mere couple of hours. And they have 2 dedicated pages, one for depositing money and the other for withdrawing money.

How to contact them?

On the downside, I couldn’t reach any customer support representatives in the dead of night – which is when we casino folks play the most, so that left me unimpressed. However, there is a very detailed help page and you can contact them via email.

Who is MrQ casino best for?

Throw a few bingo games into the mix, and you get a casino ideal for casino newbies.

Pros
Generous bonuses
1,000+ games from prominent game providers
Fast withdrawals
Intuitive live casino games

Cons
No 24/7 customer service
Website design is a little simplistic

Visit MrQ casino

#5 BetMGM Cas i no

My favourite newcomer UK casino

Established: 2023 (UK)
Welcome bonus: £200 cash + 100 free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 3,000+
Highest RTP slot: 96.71% – Big Bass Splash
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: VISA, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay
Payout speed: 1-3 days

Trustpilot rating : 1.4/5
AskGamblers rating : N/A

Bonus offers

The welcome casino bonus is on par with the best in the business, as I got £200 in cash as a deposit match, along with 100 free spins. While there was a chance to win a trip to Las Vegas, I wasn’t quite so lucky. Unfortunately, I was disappointed by the distinct lack of ongoing promotions at BetMGM. Still, the initial welcome package was enough to tide me over for quite a while.

Loyalty

There seems to be a rewards program that is connected to BetMGM real life complexes.

Playing remotely

I took full advantage of the casino’s downloadable app, available on iOS & Android. And it worked seamlessly. No hassle, no bugs, no slow loading speed.

Reviews:

2 out of 1600 reviews on Google Play Store
4.4 out of 3600 reviews on Apple Store

It would seem that the players playing on Android devices had some issues with the app loading speed hence the bad reviews, but I haven’t encountered any issues like those.

BetMGM casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Big Bass Splash	96.71%	Bonus game with modifiers
Eye of Horus	94.50%	Expanding and upgrading wilds
Book of Dead	96.21%	Expanding symbol

What is special about BetMGM?

With an excellent reputation in the United States, BetMGM entered the UK market in 2023, which makes it one of the newest casinos in the UK. When the US folks came, they came prepared, and I found over 3,000 games in a densely populated lobby. Microgaming, Pragmatic Play, and Play’n GO all contributed to BetMGM’s offering, and that itself is a green flag for trustworthiness.

Not only do they have a lot of regular slot games, but they also have a couple of exclusive games that were made specifically for BetMGM casino.

I found the MGM Millions supersized network progressive jackpot to be quite exhilarating. Playing for a chance to win £20 million gave me goosebumps. However, do not forget to opt in, otherwise you won’t be eligible for that chance.

And last but not least, Golden Wheel. It is a nice addition to compensate for the lack of ongoing bonuses. Each day you get a chance of winning up to £5,000 cash.

Money

I did find the casino to be completely safe and fair, with SSL encryption helping protect players.

How to contact BetMGM?

In true American fashion, customer service is king and agents are on hand 24/7 to answer questions and offer technical support. I didn’t end up needing it, but I spoke to them, just to make sure you’ll get what you pay for.

Who is BetMGM best for?

This isn’t something I mention often, but BetMGM’s utter dedication to responsible gambling, with deposit limits and other tools being available, prominent, and clearly labelled, deserves not only a mention, but an honourable one. My verdict for this newcomer to our online gambling scene is that it passes with flying colours.

Pros
3,000+ casino games
Large welcome package
Mobile apps on iOS & Android
Apple Pay accepted

Cons
A small number of ongoing promotions

Visit BetMGM casino

#6 Bally Casino UK

Best casino UK for free games

Established: 2023
Welcome bonus: 30 free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 500+
Highest RTP slot: 96.71% – Big Bass Bonanza
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: VISA, Mastercard, Apple Pay
Payout speed: 1-3 days

Trustpilot rating : 1.6/5
AskGamblers rating : 7/10

Casino rewards for you

As a new player, I was able to claim 30 free spins when depositing £10 wager free. I do have to say I wasn’t exactly blown away by the welcome offer – 30 full-deposit free spins, to be used on only one game to boot, but when I include the fact that there are no wagering requirements the offer doesn’t seem bad at all.

Bally rewards

I’ve found it quite difficult to decipher whether or not Bally casino has a loyalty program or not. They have quite a lot of free tournaments, both slot and poker free tournaments, free to play slot games, daily free games and more. But they don’t seem to have an actual loyalty program.

Can I play it on the go?

Bally has very recently launched a mobile application, and it seems to be working splendidly. A giant like them in this industry is highly expected to have a seamlessly working app. And I found that they do deliver.

App reviews:

4.5 out of 1500 reviews on Google Play Store
4.8 out of 900 reviews on Apple Store

Bally UK casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Fishin’ Frenzy: The Big Catch	96.12%	Free Spins feature
Tippy Tavern	96.22%	1Up symbol
Big Bass Bonanza	96.71%	Money symbol multiplier

Special Features

Another addition from across the pond, Bally Casino brought over its vast experience and launched in the UK in 2023, and I for one am glad it did. The sign-up literally couldn’t be any more straightforward, and every step is clearly labelled, which is always a plus.

An unkind observer might call Bally’s website basic, but I would always trade flashy graphics for the level of ease of use I encountered there. I then found over 500 different games I could play with my own money, including slots, roulette, blackjack, and more.

I was happy to see there were plenty of free-to-play games, however, with Doubly Bubbly, Daily Paper, and Search for the Phoenix being my favourites.

What seems to be quite special about Bally Casino is that they have no wagering requirements. I don’t believe many other casinos have such a feature.

What both me and a lot of the players I’ve talked to seem to enjoy a lot is the daily free games!

Deposits and Withdrawals

I wasn’t delighted to see the limited number of payment methods when depositing and withdrawing money at Bally, but I have to admit all my transactions were silky smooth. And knowing how big they are in the industry I feel that my funds are always safe. They use all the standard protections and safety protocols that are obligatory for these types of casinos.

How to contact Bally casino?

Bally Casino has a pretty straightforward Help section, where I was able to find all the details I wanted to inquire about. But I wanted to go an extra step so I contacted them via live chat, to ask the same questions. And boy do they deliver. Not only did they answer my questions, but they also provided me further information or rather where exactly on the website to find it.

No matter the question, whether it is about your money, bonus restrictions, withdrawal issues or anything else you can find the answer in the help centre, or ask them directly.

Who is this operator best for?

Bally technically has a poker section, but it’s not nearly as rich as the rest of its offering, and I suggest sticking to its standout slot titles, as well as giving Slingo a shot – that’s always a fun one. All in all, a solid contender in the UK casino market for anyone looking to change things up a bit.

Pros
Free spins welcome offer
Plenty of free games
Mobile payment options, including Apple Pay
24/7 customer service

Cons
Software is basic

Visit Bally casino

#7 Betway Casino

Top penny slots online casino

Established: 2006
Welcome bonus: Bet £10 & get 125 free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 500+
Highest RTP slot: 96.98% – Thor’s Lightning
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: VISA, Mastercard, PayPal, Trustly, bank transfer
Payout speed: 1-3 days

Trustpilot rating : 1.3/5
AskGamblers rating : 3.2/10

Offers

Depositing for the first time got me 125 free spins after signing up – seamless, of course, and I expected nothing less – which might not be deemed particularly generous, but it does give you a nice starting point. Do not expect a great deal of ongoing promotions.

Betway Plus

I did find a loyalty program, with points being collected each time I played. Returning players are the bread and butter of this industry, and Betway seems to recognize that, at least in part. Rising through the tiers would have earned me a lot of exclusive bonuses and other cool offers.

Can I play on the go?

What I really like about Betway is that they have an app. And not just any old app, a mobile app that is fully functional, seamless and very practical. I found that they went really heavy on the user experience and the reviews really do show that.

4.8 score out of 35.000 reviews on the App Store
4.2 score out of 13.000 reviews on the Google Play Store

What is so special about Betway?

Betway is one of the best-known gambling brands in the UK, as any West Ham fan will tell you. As such, you’d expect them to provide a casino experience on par with Premier League football, and they certainly do. Upon entering their casino site, I was first struck by the sheer usability and had the exact same experience with the Betway mobile app.

Of course, a wide range of games is available, with some neat exclusives – I particularly enjoyed Fishing Fever, Spin and Win, and Nevada Nights. I found that the number of progressive jackpot games was impressive too.

Betway casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
888 Dragons	96.84%	Classic slot machine with 1 payline
Starburst XXXTREME	96.26%	Random wilds
Thor’s Lightning	96.98%	Lightning Strike

Deposits

It was a little surprising to find so few payment methods, however, although those available are fast and safe. Still, such a big name would do well to expand its array of ways prospective customers can become paying customers.

How to contact Betway casino?

Betway can be contacted by live chat, and email. When I wanted to question them about which payment methods are available, they managed to answer me quickly so I was left satisfied.

Who is Betway best for?

Veterans will appreciate having access to Mega Moolah and Treasure Nile, for example.

Pros
Exclusive games to play
UK best casino for penny games
Quick withdrawals
Mobile app on iOS and Android

Cons
Welcome offer focuses on slots players only

Visit Betway casino

#8 Winomania Casino

Excellent scratchcard casino

Established: 2018
Welcome bonus: 100% bonus up to £100 + 100 bonus spins, new customers only
Number of games: 700+
Highest RTP slot: 96.50% – Gold Rush
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: VISA, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Trustly, Mastercard
Payout speed: 4-12 days

Trustpilot rating : 3/5
AskGamblers rating : 4.5/10

Featured promotions

The current welcome package at Winomania is worth up to a max bonus amount of £100 and 100 bonus spins, with a min deposit of £10. This is above the industry standard, and it’s safeguarded by an easy sign-up process and a less easy 40x wagering requirement.

They also have a Spinomania offer, which has a monthly bonus code that can earn you up to 200 bonus spins by depositing. The bonus code is usually connected with the ongoing month, so for example in July the bonus code is “JULY11”

VIP Club

If I had chosen to stay longer, I could have made use of the weekly cashback, drop & wins features and many more loyalty bonuses, so I recommend you go for that if you elect to stick with Winomania.

Like any other loyalty program, this one works just as the same, it is based on the lifetime deposits I make. The more I play, the higher the level I am, and the better the prizes.

I became a part of the VIP Club as soon as I made an account. Each £10 deposited would have granted me 1 VIP point. The threshold to enter for each new level becomes steeper and steeper the higher you get. There are 6 levels:

Level 1 Entry – 0 points threshold – 0% weekly cashback
Level 2 Bronze – 400 points threshold – 5% weekly cashback
Level 3 Silver – 2000 points threshold – 8% weekly cashback
Level 4 Gold – 7500 points threshold – 12% weekly cashback
Level 5 Platinum – 20000 points threshold – 15% weekly cashback
Level 6 Diamond – 50000 points threshold – 20% weekly cashback

There are much more VIP Club privileges than just the cashback bonus, but you can imagine how good they are at the top just by looking at the cashback offer.

Can I play on mobile?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a Winomania Casino app available for download specifically for this casino. But you may use your web browser to visit Winomania Casino to get the complete mobile experience. Even though there is no app I was still able to fully enjoy their casino on my phone, as they made sure that everything is optimised.

No games or features require further downloads, and you can play all of them on your ipad and mobile devices. Most importantly, the scrolling on their website is seamless. In general the user experience for mobile play is sublime, even though they do not have an app.

Winomania casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Gold Rush	96.50%	Cash Collect symbol
Age of the Gods	95.02%	Free Spins features
Aztec Gold	95.99%	Hold&Win Bonus

What makes Winomania special?

Winomania is often referred to as a boutique online casino, hoping to cultivate a bit more of an elite image with fewer, high-quality games. As a result, I could choose between just over 700 titles in total, but they all came from big-name providers, like Evolution, Play’n GO, and NetEnt. Gonzo’s Quest, Mega Moolah, and Immortal Romance were among the slot titles I tried out, and then I switched over to scratchcards – Jungle Explorer and Money in the Bag for starters – to enjoy a rarer form of fun in the UK’s online casino offering. If that’s your thing too, Winomania might just be the place.

Payments

Making deposits at Winomania is pretty straightforward, I had to be a registered player, and then I just followed the regular steps for making deposits – logged in, entered payment details and clicked on the deposit button. The money was on my account in a matter of seconds. They even have a whole section on their website dedicated to a guide on deposits.

Withdrawals on the other hand are a different storry. Be wary, as my withdrawals at Winomania were on the slow side. Still, if one is taking too long, just go for another payment method, as there are plenty to choose from (8 to be exact) – always a good sign.

How to contact Winomania?

Live chat and email support tools were pretty efficient, considering how quickly they replied and resolved the issue when I complained about the slow payout.

Who is the Winomania casino best for?

Winomania casino is best for those who want to play scratchards and for anyone who wants to enjoy a quality casino gaming experience.

Pros
Good option for scratchcards in particular
Generous welcome package
Live chat support
Mobile-friendly website

Cons
Withdrawals are slow

Visit Winomania casino

#9 PriveWIN Casino

UK casino with the best ongoing promotions

Established: 2017
Welcome bonus: 100% match bonus up to £100 + free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 3,000+
Highest RTP slot: 96.54% – Clover Gold
Minimum deposit: £10 – £20 (depends on payment method)
Payment methods: VISA, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay, PayViaPhone, paysafecard, Skrill, Neteller, NeoSurf
Payout speed: 1-7 days

Trustpilot rating : N/A
AskGamblers rating : 7.1/10

Bonuses and offers

The welcome package is one of the reasons that I was drawn to PriveWin initially, but the wagering requirement (50) is too high to warrant that, honestly. Still, I stayed a while, and Friday points boosts, cashback weekends, and Sunday=Funday promotions made up the difference, so not all was lost. What I really liked about PriveWin is that there are constantly some new weekly bonuses that always leave you coming back for more.

Loyalty promotions

I’ve found that their loyalty program is similar to all other top online casinos. The more you play the more the rewards. The more you earn rewards the better they get. The value of my lifetime deposits and ongoing activity accrues and adds value in order for me to gain better rewards. I was able to find the actual system once I logged in and clicked on the Special Rewards widget, where I was able to see my level and the available missions.

Mobile app

Both a blessing and a curse in the iGaming world, there is no app. Rather, you can play at PriveWin from the comfort of your mobile browser. No hassle in downloading the app. While playing the games from the mobile browser I found that SSL encryption and firewall technology are used to protect players, so I felt safe while I was browsing the website.

In general, I enjoyed playing on my phone, you can really see that PriveWin adopted the mobile-first approach. In my opinion slot categories are well organised and any game I wanted to find I was able to do it with ease. I also liked that I was able to “doomscroll” via the infinite scroll feature for the casino games when I didn’t know which casino game I wanted to play.

Specialties

The first thing I noticed about PriveWin was how many leading iGaming developers I could see in its lobby. I found games from Microgaming, Play’n GO, NetEnt, Playtech, and many others. But what truly sets PriveWin apart from other top online casinos is even further gamification of the casino. I am, of course, referring to Reel It In Leaderboard where I was able to unleash my competitive nature and compete against other players for a chance to earn a Cash prize.

I entered the competition by depositing £10 with the promo code “REEL”, from then on I just started playing. The top 10 most wagering players earn cash prizes up to £300. And the best thing is that I was able to track my progress and compare it with the current top 10 players.

They also have a Game of the Week feature, where they showcase a slot game, sometimes even giving small bonuses for it.

But the thing that really sets them apart from the competition is the fact that they have a complete page dedicated solely to payout percentage of all the games they have in their library. This truly shows their dedication to transparency and fairness. And makes them a trustworthy online casino.

Depositing and withdrawing funds

It was nice to find Apple Pay, PayPal, and other modern payment methods were accepted at PriveWin, but that didn’t make the cashout process any quicker, unfortunately – something PriveWin will have to work on.

You can deposit as little as £10 to £20, depending on the payment method, and all of your deposits should appear in your PriveWin account immediately, allowing you to begin playing right away.

One thing to watch out for is that you have to withdraw your funds with the same payment method you used for depositing.

The withdrawal processing speed is usually around 1 day, so depending on your preferred payment method it can be anywhere between 1 and 5 days before the money is in your account.

PriveWIN casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Book of Dead	96.21%	Expanding symbols
Clover Gold	96.54%	Collect symbols
Honey Rush 100	96.2%	Overcharge mode

How to contact PriveWin?

In order to contact their customer support I had to make an account, once I did I was able to contact them by both live chat and email. However, their Help Centre page is more than plenty. It has everything from bonuses and promotions to deposits, withdrawals and any technical issues you may encounter.

Who is PriveWin casino best for?

Whatever your skill level, you’ll be well-taken-care-of. There are games to suit both beginners and high rollers, and those I played on both ends of the spectrum performed to specifications. At PriveWin I ran into a lot of slots, afterwards I switched over to table, instant win, and live dealer games, and they were alright too, although my choices were a little too limited to fully enjoy the gaming experience.

Pros
3,000+ games from leading providers
Generous weekend promo
Various payment methods
Excellent VIP program

Cons
Withdrawals can take up to 7 days

Visit PriveWIN casino

#10 777Cherry Casino

My sweetest UK casino for unique games

Established: 2022
Welcome bonus: 50+ free spins on Blue Wizard (use code WIZARD50), new customers only
Number of games: 1,500+
Highest RTP slot: 96.51% – Congo Cash
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, Pay by Phone, Paysafecard, AstroPay
Payout speed: 3-6 days

Trustpilot rating : N/A
AskGamblers rating : 6.4/10

Rewards

They usually have anywhere from 8 to 15 active promotions, including their loyalty bonuses which I will cover in the next section. I ve found that 777 Cherry casino, like most top online casinos, has a wide variety of bonuses, from welcome offers to specific game bonuses. But for me the most important bonus a best online casino can have are bonus spins, and 777 Cherry Casino delivers.

They also have a promo code bonus “WIZARD50” for the casino game Blue Wizard where I was able to get 50 bonus spins for the game when I deposited £10.

However, there is one thing I don’t like regarding their bonuses, and it is the steep wagering requirement of 65.

Loyalty bonus

I found that, like most best online casinos, 777 Cherry also has a loyalty program. It works on a system of trophies that I was able to accrue by completing some fun tasks. Every 5 trophies I earned I got a free spin of the Mega Reel. And the cool thing is that every time I leveled up I got a better Mega Reel, so the prizes were always getting bigger and better.

There are also occasional Trophy related bonuses. For example, as of the day of writing there is a “200 Club” bonus which rewards each player who gets 200 trophies with a free £10 Amazon Voucher. And that is not all, each 5 trophies earned gives you a chance to earn 500 bonus spins, and you get another chance each 5 trophies.

Mobile

I was able to try out 777 Cherry casino on the mobile, they don’t have an app, but you can play all the casino games from the mobile browser. I haven’t encountered any issues, however I’ve heard some complaints about their website.

It’s not a huge issue, but it is something to look out for if you’re using an older device or have a poor internet connection because you might end up waiting quite a bit to reach the games as the loading speed can be slow.

Special characteristics

777Cherry has a unique design, and I think it’s probably trying to evoke the impression of a brick-and-mortar establishment, in line with its very classic casino name. I love certain aspects of it, like the free-floating game boxes and the interesting photo of London in the background, but there are some drawbacks to these unique design choices. For example, loading times are quite slow, and it might be due to the amount of clutter on the page.

It didn’t slow down my registration too much, though, and the process was really simplified – I used the PayPal quick sign-up option, so that helped my experience too.

You might be going like, “Plenty of top-rated gambling sites in the UK and Ireland have 1,500+ games”, which would mean 777Cherry isn’t necessarily remarkable in this regard. What does make it remarkable, however, is the type of games you can play. Going beyond the basics by offering nine different types of bingo, scratchcards, and arcade-style casino games gives the 777Cherry casino lobby a level of diversity that most other online casinos I’ve played at can’t match.

There is one more feature of the casino that I haven’t seen elsewhere which is the option to create an account fast by using your PayPal account. I’ve found it quite amusing, as it speed up the account registration process.

Payment options

I’ve found 777Cherry to be very direct and transparent about their payment methods. I found their payment options with ease, just by being on their website. They accept:

Visa
Mastercard
PayPal
Skrill
Neteller
Paysafecard
Pay by Mobile

There is only 1 currency in which my funds were accepted – GBP, which wasn’t an issue at all as I’ve found that their whole casino has been tailored towards players from the UK.

A couple more important information regarding deposits – you may have up to 3 payment cards linked to your account and all withdrawal and payment options must be in the same name of the person registered on the casino site. And lastly, the minimum amount of the deposits is £10.

777Cherry casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
9 Pots of Gold	96.24%	Multiplier in Free Spins
Chilli Heat	96.50%	Stacked Wilds
Congo Cash	96.51%	Jewelery Board

How to contact 777 Cherry?

Unfortunately 777 Cherry does not have a live chat, which is in my eyes a big minus in our fast-paced world. I’ve found that their email support is quite helpful, and that they are very reliable. Our whole conversation lasted for a week, where they managed to answer all my questions regarding wagering requirements for their casino. They always answered within 2 working days, but in reality much quicker.

Who is 777 Cherry casino best for?

In my opinion, 777Cherry definitely is one of the best online casinos out there, and anyone who likes slot games will enjoy it.

Pros
Big free spins welcome offer
Monthly scratchcard promotions
Diverse selection of virtual and live games
Exclusive prize giveaways

Cons
Old-fashioned design

Visit 777Cherry casino

#11 RedAxePlay Casino

My recommended casino for loyal players

Established: 2021
Welcome bonus: 100% bonus up to £100 + free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 4,000+
Highest RTP slot: 94.51% – Clover Gold
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: VISA, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Trustly, Skrill, Neteller, PayViaPhone, Paysafecard, AstroPay, NeoSurf
Payout speed: 1-7 days

Trustpilot rating : N/A
AskGamblers rating : N/A

RedAxePlay is one of several online casinos operated by ProgressPlay Limited. It has a double license, from the UK and Malta, so the casino passed my first test of trust. I’ve heard that the design of this casino site is basic, but I mostly just found it easy to use and navigate, which is always a plus in my book.

Rewards

I liked the RedAxePlay welcome bonus too – not so luxurious that you need to get a line of credit to sign up, but more than enough to get me started, and I really like the 20 bonus spins. The wagering requirement was a bit of a nasty surprise, however, even if the sign-up process to get the bonus was fairly breezy in my estimate. Once I got my bonus cash, it was time to enjoy playing some of the 4,000+ games on offer, and enjoy it – I did. Once that was done, as a veritable RedAxePlay regular, I was also able to claim cashback bonuses, VIP rewards, and bonus spins.

Loyalty bonus

The slogan for RedAxePlay’s loyalty program, or Rewards Programme as they call it is “The more you play, the more rewards you get!” As soon as I made an account with them I was enrolled automatically into the rewards program. I found this online casino’s loyalty program to be very fun, as you need to complete missions in order to level up, earn better badges which in turn opens better opportunities for rewards. Like with all loyalty promotions, this one’s value also rises when your all lifetime deposits rise. There are two kinds of rewards:

Rewards store – where you exchange points for fantastic offers like bonus spins
Win prizes – your progress in the leaderboards will earn you prizes, exclusive rewards and more

RedAxePlay casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Book of Dead	91%	Expanding symbol
Clover Gold	94.51%	Respins collect
Honey Rush 100	91%	Sticky Wild symbol

Mobile

RedAxePlay was accessible on desktop and mobile during my testing of the casino, although an app has yet to make an appearance.

Special characteristics

When I played at RedAxePlay casino my experience was different when compared to other top online casinos. For a single reason – I was able to try out a nice selection of table games and slot machine substitutes at RedAxePlay. The website’s ‘casual’ area offers more than a hundred games, ranging from bingo to noughts and crosses, among other scratchcard activities. Worthy mentions:

Keno Star
Scratch Gold
Bingo 75
Yahtzee – Instant Tap

Payment options

This is not praise I dole out often, but I have yet to find a casino that matches RedAxePlay when it comes to a range of payment methods. Unfortunately, the withdrawal fees that apply in some cases tempered my delight somewhat, but I guess casinos have to pay the processors somehow too. Withdrawals were quick enough for me not to dwell too much on the issue.

How to contact RedAxePlay?

In order to contact the customer service I first needed to become a member, and once I was done with that I was able to check everything I needed with live support – another plus for RedAxePlay. I contacted them via live chat, but there is also the option of email. On top of that, they have a really lengthy FAQ subdomain.

Who is RedAxePlay casino best for?

RedAxePlay has plenty to offer for any interested UK players, despite its relatively short years of experience. I spent most of my time on Starburst, Immortal Romance, and Rise of Olympus, working through my wagering contributions for the welcome bonus.

Pros
Cashback offers for existing customers
Large number of payment methods
Regular rewards for loyal players
Live chat support is available

Cons
Withdrawal fees with selected payment methods

Visit RedAxePlay casino

#12 HotStreak Slots Casino

My top-of-the-slots UK casino

Established: 2021
Welcome bonus: 10 spins no deposit bonus + 100 cash spins on Big Bass Bonanza (use code BASS20), new customers only
Number of games: 400+
Highest RTP slot: 94.60% – Big Bass Splash
Minimum deposit: £10
Payment methods: Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Trustly
Payout speed: 2-7 days

Trustpilot rating : 2.9/5
AskGamblers rating : 6.6/10

It will come as no surprise that Hotstreak Slots is a standout UK online casino when it comes to slots – if you put something in your name, you’d better not skimp on it. On that note, the first thing I noticed is that all their games come with great quality. However, there could be a few more games. 400+ options is more than enough for most players, but other top casino sites have more.

Promotions

The Hotstreak experience starts with either a no deposit bonus that gets you 10 bonus spins on Finn & the Swirly Spin, or you can get 100 cash spins on Big Bass Bonanza when you wager £20 using the code BASS20. I’m a big fan of no-deposit and no-wagering bonuses, so I obviously rate this deal as excellent.

However, what actually set it apart from the average cash spins promotion for me is the fact you get 100 spins. That’s almost unprecedented and a major reason I think HotStreak is the top slots casino for UK players. All winnings from the bonus spins will be awarded in bonus funds. And before I was able to withdraw my winnings I had to meet the 60x wagering requirements.

Rewards program

HotStreaks don’t seem to have a loyalty program in its truest form. However they do have some special rewards for their loyal players in the form of match bonuses, win boosts, bonus spins and cash prizes.

HotStreak casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Big Bass Splash	94.60%	10 payline fishing game with scatter free spins
Big Bass Bonanza	94.02%	10 payline game with scatter free spins
Starburst	94.05%	Pays both ways with expanding wilds

Mobile version

I found their app to be working much better on iOS devices than on android phones. The players are quite satisfied with the app on iphones and ipads. While using older android phones could result in slower loading speed for the app.

App scores on official marketplaces:

Apple Store – 4.5
Google Play score – 3

Unique features

Popular video and jackpot slots are flanked by modern marvels such as Megaways, Lock N’ Win, and other innovative games. That, for me, is why HotStreak is a top slot site. They also release new slot games weekly which I am quite fond of.

Payments

One big downside I can’t avoid mentioning is the payment method diversity – or, specifically, the lack thereof displayed. You can only deposit via debit card according to the site, but once you register, other methods, such as PayPal and MuchBetter, also become available. This lack of transparency is not my cup of tea, but contacting support – which is available 24/7 – resolved my confusion, at least.

How to get help from them?

Customer support of HotStreak is quite helpful when contacted directly, however their chatbot seems to need a bit more work, or at least a bit more dialogue options. Nevertheless, you can contact them in a couple different ways:

Live chat via the live chat icon in the bottom right corner
You can call them or text them on +447360275976

There is also a FAQ page that can assist you with immediate answers. They truly have a reliable customer support service.

Who is HotStreak Slots best for?

HotSreak Slots is a standout UK online casino, it wouldn’t be in my list if it wasn’t. I believe that this casino is best for all the slot lovers, especially the ones who like playing new slot games each week.

Pros
No-deposit bonus
Huge number of free spins for newbies
No playthrough on bonus wins
Has all the latest slot innovations

Cons
No deposit match welcome bonus

Visit Hotstreak Slots

#13 JackpotCity Casino

Favourite mobile casino

Established: 2014
Welcome bonus: 100% bonus up to £100 + 100 free spins, new customers only
Number of games: 500+
Highest RTP slot: 96.33% – Amazing Link Zeus
Minimum deposit: £20
Payment methods: VISA, Mastercard, PayPal
Payout speed: 24 hours

Trustpilot rating : 2.9/5
AskGamblers rating : 3.7/10

In my opinion, JackpotCity’s two-and-a-half-decade-long experience almost immediately shows. This casino site is full of high-quality games; digging a bit deeper uncovered that most of them come from Microgaming and Evolution Gaming, and if you want to see games from anyone on a casino site, you want to see theirs.

Promotions

The welcome package isn’t particularly imaginative, but it is worth taking advantage of, despite the 50x wagering requirement and high initial stake of £20. It is for new customers only. To claim it, I went through the three-step registration process – again, fairly standard issue, but ID confirmation went smoothly, which is usually the only hitch in the process. To stay on the safe side, I contacted support while going through it, and I found the casino’s live chat feature to be very simple to use.

After I’d played through my bonus, I looked into the other promotions I was now eligible for as a regular JackpotCity member. For one thing, random cash drops added to my experience, and if I’d stuck around longer, I would have gone for the £250,000 weekly giveaway through leaderboards. If you decide to become a regular, I would advise you to try to sneak in there.

There is also a cool bonus that I try to take each and every single day called Mega Money Wheel. I receive 10 bonus spins each day I log in, each spin is worth 10p and I need to wager 30 times before I can get my bonus funds, but it still adds a lot of value as it as a free daily login bonus.

Rewards program

JackpotCity has a loyalty program that you are signed up to as soon as you make your account. It works on your lifetime deposits by accruing loyalty points and has different levels. The more loyalty points you accrue the higher the level you are. There are six levels:

Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Diamond
Prive – invite only level

Also the higher the level the better the prizes are. You have more options on which you can spend your loyalty points on, as well as exclusive access to new games, daily offers and more.

Mobile version

The best part? I’d done all this on my phone, via JackpotCity’s excellent app. These options are all safe and secure. Plus, you’ll get some attractive welcome bonuses if you opt in and experience seamless mobile casino gambling on the go.

Jackpot City casino main menu

Best slots	RTP	Best special feature
Fire and Roses Joker	96.01%	Jackpot Trigger symbol
Amazing Link Zeus	96.33%	Streak Respins
Mega Diamonds Jackpot	95.94%	Jackpot feature

Unique features

Once I reached the games lobby, I filtered the games “By Provider”, which is a built-in option and a nice touch.

Payments

Another plus for this casino is how quickly I received my winnings – the processing took under 24 hours at JackpotCity. Unless you are a member of the online casino, you won’t be able to find out which payment methods they accept, so thankfully I already know. They accept all the usual payment methods like PayPal, Visa, Neteller, Skrill and also Rapid Transfer.

How to contact JackpotCity?

When I reached out JackpotCity’s customer support via live chat, there are no other options, they were very eager to help.

However, I do have a bone to pick with how their customer support works, I really don’t like that you can’t contact them in anyway unless you are already a member. Which is why I would assume that they have their very lengthy Help section with very detailed frequently asked questions regarding everything.

Who is JackpotCity best for?

If you are looking for slingo games, bingo or slots, I believe that JackpotCity could be for you.

Pros
Bonuses for new and existing players
24/7 customer service
400+ slots to play
Mobile app on iOS & Android

Cons
Small number of payment methods

Visit JackpotCity casino

Remember you must be 18 or older to gamble at any of casino sites UK have to offer. It’s important to read through the terms and conditions of any online casino, especially when it comes to eligibility and banking regulations.

Don’t forget to read the rules for bonuses and promotions, in order to see whether any restrictions apply.

How I ranked and reviewed the best casinos UK for you

I don’t give gambling sites my seal of approval easily. Just because an operator has a recognisable logo or a long-standing reputation within the industry, I don’t automatically give it a 5-star review. It’s too easy to be fooled by fancy language and flashing promotions, so I test each casino thoroughly before recommending it.

Not to sound too science-y, but I base my opinion of any casino by systematically going through the following aspects of every virtual gambling establishment:

Licensing and security

Would you put your money into a platform that wasn’t certified as safe? No, neither would I, which is why I’ll only play at casinos that are licensed and regulated by a legitimate organisation. In the UK and Ireland, the Gambling Commission is the only legitimate organisation when it comes to regulatory affairs and protecting player rights. This means an online casino is only legal in the UK and Ireland if it’s been approved by the Gambling Commission.

I, like you, want to remain on the right side of the law, so using gambling sites licensed by the Gambling Commission is essential. However, a gambling licence is more than a legal requirement – it’s a mark of quality if you can get the UKGC to approve of your business. Basically, an online casino won’t be approved by the Gambling Commission unless it’s demonstrated beyond doubt that it offers a secure, fair and safe service.

I won’t bore you with technicalities, but remember that casino safety means its software must feature the latest encryption technology, games must be certified as fair by a third party, such as iTech Labs, and payments must be processed safely.

After all, the reality is that online gambling involves, well, real money. Therefore, the safety standards must be similar to what you get with banking apps. That’s why I take security seriously when I play, and even more so when I’m recommending you play somewhere. Therefore, I defer to the highest powers and their expertise, which, in this case, is the UK Gambling Commission.

Game selection

Of course, the game selection is a huge factor when deciding which online casino to play at – I have my favourites, you have your favourites, every player wants to find their favourite games at an online casino they choose. I want to be spoiled for choice, too; playing Starburst over and over again is all well and good, but if I want to change things up, the best casino has to have a proverbial game buffet for me to enjoy. And all this without sacrificing quality for quantity! No wonder so many casinos find it too tall an order.

I also know to look at the software providers a casino works with. A games lobby can have thousands of online slot games, but it is irrelevant if they are not from respected developers. The type of slot developers I like to look for include the likes of Pragmatic Play, Relax Gaming, NetEnt, Games Global (formerly Microgaming), Play’n GO, Yggdrasil, Hacksaw Gaming, Nolimit City, and Stakelogic.

This list is far from exhaustive, but these are just some of the names I look for when I first visit a games lobby. Likewise, I expect the same level of quality from the live casino section as from a casino slot machine – nowadays, not many casinos go the extra mile on the table and live game front, so it’s always a plus when I can actually find interesting titles to spend time on away from the slots section.

Welcome bonuses and promotions

Gambling would be great if there were only ups, but unfortunately, the reality is that you won’t win all the time. Executives running the best online casino sites know this, which is why bonus funds are an integral part of their products. I don’t expect you to get a reward each time you make a deposit, but there should be a clear desire to give customers as much added value as possible.

A welcome bonus is the least an operator can do. Giving people something for completing the registration process is a great way to welcome first-time customers. Failing that, a first deposit bonus that contains site credit and/or free spins is a must. I particularly like slot bonuses that pay out spin winnings in cash rather than site credit because it means you don’t have to hit a rollover before requesting a withdrawal.

Pro tip: Before signing up for a welcome bonus, always read the terms and conditions and keep track of the wagering contributions and weighting requirements for different games!

Once the welcome match-up bonus is out of the way, a steady stream of reload offers, loyalty rewards, and prize drop promotions always get my attention. What I will say, however, is that top-end value isn’t the only metric I consider. I want you to get a lot of extra credits, but not at any cost. That’s why I review the wagering requirements to ensure you’re not locked into a bad deal. The minimum deposit, playing period, and rollover need to be suitable for low-stakes members.

Secure payments

I said earlier that online gambling is a real-money pastime and that casino sites need to have the same safety standards as banking apps. Well, a big part of this is a selection of secure payment processors.

You don’t need to be a financial expert to know which payment method is reputable and which ones aren’t. Basically, if you’ve heard of them, they’re probably safe. That’s the strategy I use. So, if a casino allows you to make payments with PayPal, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill and other similar methods, you can be confident that your money is safe. As you know, debit card deposits aren’t an option at UK casinos, so these alternatives have to make up the difference.

What’s also important to note is that UK Gambling Commission standards require operators to ring-fence player funds. This means your money can’t be used for operational purposes, and if the company runs into financial troubles, your money will be protected.

Finally, there aren’t any regulatory standards with regard to payment processing times. However, I like to recommend casinos that process deposits instantly and handle withdrawals within five days. There are some exceptions to this rule, but, in general, I go with the “faster is better” philosophy.

Great customer service

The often-overlooked quality I assess when I’m reviewing online casinos is the support you receive. Indeed, you can often measure the quality of a company by looking at how it responds in a crisis. I’m not saying you’re going to experience a crisis when you’re playing slots and table games, but there may be times when something goes wrong.

The help you get at these times defines the true quality of a casino. That’s why I read through FAQs and talk to customer support agents. I’m looking for clear advice that’s easily accessible. The less time it takes me to resolve common issues, the better.

What’s more, an online casino can have hundreds of great games and promotions, but it won’t make if its software is subpar. Obviously, I’m not going to recommend casinos that constantly crash or don’t work on all devices. The reason people play online casino games is because they’re easily accessible 24/7. If a casino platform can’t deliver on this basic expectation, it’s not worth using.

Of course, I don’t just want you to have a basic experience. My goal is to show you the top casino UK players can enjoy and what it offers, as well as some almost equally excellent alternatives. That’s why I value unique features. Even if a feature isn’t necessarily required to make the site function, I appreciate the effort. There are hundreds of real money casino sites out there, so companies that try something different deserve a second look. Operators that try to add in their own way some added value for their players are the casinos worth looking into.

For example, I love Duelz Casino because it has an overarching theme that influences every aspect of its product. From the animated background to the promotions it offers, this operator has dared to be different and, in my opinion, it’s paid off. Casino gaming is all about the experience, which is why all of the gambling sites I recommend have unique and creative features.

Smooth gambling experience

In my experience, a casino can have all of the bells and whistles it likes, but if it is difficult to use, I will become frustrated and move on.

Having a well-designed site and providing a smooth gambling experience is an absolute must for me. I want to be able to visit a casino and immediately know how to find everything that I need.

This extends to the sign-up process. In the days of auto sign-ups with Google and Facebook, I want the experience to be as streamlined and as easy as possible. An excellent KYC policy is a must, but the best casinos are the ones who gather your information and get you signed up without it ever feeling invasive or difficult.

Likewise, a good modern casino should be able to provide an experience that is equally smooth on a mobile device as on a desktop. I regularly take slots for a spin on my tablet and iPhone, so I want the experience to be as easy, if not easier, than using the casino on my desktop.

Casino games I play at UK casino sites

Variety is the spice of my life and, by all accounts, the lives of other casino players. I say this because playing the same casino games over and over again gets boring. Even if they’re great games, we all like to switch things up, which is why I make sure my recommended casinos have at least 400+ games.

These games need to cover all genres and have betting limits suitable for low and high-stakes players. These game libraries can’t be static. I expect to see regular updates as new games are released. For example, the latest trend in online gambling is crash games. A casino that has games such as Aviator is clearly in step with the latest trends and, therefore, worthy of my recommendation.

Slots

Slot games come in so many shapes and sizes that it’s hard to keep up with the latest trends. I keep up with the latest trends because that’s my job, but I know that it’s not easy for casual spinners to know what’s hot right now. In reality, it doesn’t matter. As long as you’ve got access to a few hundred slots, the chances are you’ll be able to play something you enjoy.

All of my recommended UK online casinos have popular video slots such as Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest. They also offer progressive jackpot games such as Mega Moolah. Then, for some added variety, you’ll be able to play Megaways, Cash Link, Hold N Win and Megacluster slots.

Pro tip: Most slot games have a demo version once you create a casino account, so you can try them out before spending your money.

The following are just some of my favourite slot titles that I would recommend checking out if you get the chance:

Note: this list is by no means exhaustive, but it does provide a good range of different gameplay mechanics, themes, and styles.

Big Bass Bonanza (+ Big Bass Splash and other sequels) (Pragmatic Play)
Money Train 1-4 (Relax Gaming)
Chaos Crew 2 (Hacksaw Gaming)
Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt)
Bonanza (Big Time Gaming)
Immortal Romance (Games Global/Microgaming)
Wanted: Dead or a Wild (Hacksaw Gaming)
Book of Dead (Play’n Go)
Tombstone (Nolimit City)
Fishin Frenzy (Reel Time Gaming)

Most popular slots in UK casinos. 18+ BeGambleAware.org Please play responsibly.

One of the most popular series for a slot game ever is the Big Bass Bonanza. It is set in an underwater environment, and fishing is the main theme. Big Bass Bonanza is a captivating slot game that hooks players with its engaging underwater theme and thrilling gameplay. Set against a backdrop of serene waters, this game by Pragmatic Play offers exciting features like free spins and a rewarding fisherman wild symbol.

The vibrant graphics and immersive sound effects enhance the experience, making every spin feel like a fishing adventure. With its potential for big wins and the chance to reel in lucrative bonuses, “Big Bass Bonanza” promises both entertainment and excitement for players of all levels. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a reel adventure!

Big Bass Bonanza details:

5 reels
3 rows
10 fixed paylines
Spin value – 10p to £250 per spin

Lastly, the highest payout on the Big Bass Bonanza slot machine is 2,100 times your initial wager.

Roulette

Roulette has been around for centuries, but in the last 20 years, it’s undergone more of a transformation than at any other point in its existence. Online software developers have found novel ways to add bonus payouts and progressive jackpots to the standard payout system. That means you can play roulette the classic way and win up to 35x your bet or try modern variants such as Lightning XXXtreme, which has payouts topping 2,000x.

Blackjack

Blackjack is the ultimate casino game for people who want a low house edge and the chance to tip the odds in their favour using strategies such as card counting. The aim is to get a total that’s closer to 21 than the dealer without going bust (getting a total over 21). What’s great about modern online blackjack variants is that you can make a variety of side bets.

From the classic 21+3 and Perfect Pairs side bets to Buster Lucky Ladies, there are multiple ways to increase your payout potential. It’s also worth looking out for novel variants such as Lightning Blackjack, as they offer bonus payouts worth upwards of 50x your bet.

Video poker

Casino poker is all about mathematics and logic. You don’t need to bluff the dealer in games like Three Card Poker and Ultimate Texas Hold’em, which are the main poker variations available at UK online casinos. Instead, you have to make a sufficiently strong enough hand to beat the dealer in a heads-up showdown. Casino poker is ideal for people who enjoy games of logic and timing.

Live dealer casino games

The union between RFID sensors and webcams created a unique gaming experience 15+ years ago, and today, live dealer games are as popular as ever. Live poker, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat are now standard offerings. Even bingo can be found as an alternative casino game at most top casinos. The real mark of a world-class online casino is whether or not it offers the latest live dealer innovations, such as game shows, in addition to card games.

MrQ is an excellent example of what’s possible in the live dealer arena as it offers game show hits such as Crazy Time alongside products like Monopoly Live and Coin Flip. It’s also worth trying UK online casinos that offer live versions of virtual slots, such as Gonzo’s Quest.

The following would be my favourite live casino games:

Live European Roulette (Evolution)
Infinite Blackjack (Evolution)
Monopoly Live (Evolution)
Adventures Beyond Wonderland (Playtech)
Speed Baccarat (Stakelogic Live)
Casino Hold’em Live (Evolution)
Dream Catcher (Evolution)
Baccarat Squeeze (Playtech)

Alternative games at casinos

These games are ones you won’t typically find in a land-based casino. They’re things like scratchcards, Plinko, bingo, crash games and arcade-style games (i.e. games with goals or missions). Any casino that goes beyond the norm and has alternative games is worth trying, particularly if you’re a novice, because they’ll have a strong focus on fun and entertainment.

Bonuses and offers you can find at top online casinos

At the best online casinos you can, of course, find the best casino bonuses. They do come in many forms such as, but not limited to:

Free spins
1st deposit bonus
Match deposit bonus
Loyalty program
Bonus code
No deposit bonus

Free spins

Free spins, also known as bonus spins, is the most popular version of casino bonuses, and the most enticing of the casino offers. They can come in any amount from 10 free spins to 500. However, operators know how to upgrade the excitement of their users with this promotion in a numerous ways. Bonus spins can come in variety of forms:

No deposit free spins – Usually a small value of free spins are given to the readers when they sign up.
Match deposit free spins – Usually, you need to deposit a certain amount and afterwards you gain an X value of free spins.
Free spins in the form of a welcome bonus – Welcome bonus offers for casinos usually come in the form of free spins.
Free spins gained through a bonus code – Entering a code when signing up provides the reader with a certain amount of bonus spins.
Loyalty program / VIP Free spins – Free spins rewarded to the player for their commitment to the operator.
Bonus cash free spins – Readers can find casino offers that provide you with bonus cash to use on different casino games.
Bonus rounds free spins – Not an actual bonus, rather an integral part of certain slot games – usually triggered by hitting a certain number of wild or scatter symbols on one screen.
Free spins for game promotions – Certain value of bonus spins can be awarded to the players if they play certain games that have ongoing promotions.

1st deposit bonus

A type of promotion where the casino offers a bonus to players when they make their first deposit after signing up for an account. The bonus value is typically stated as a percentage of the deposited amount, up to a certain maximum limit. For example, a common offer might be a “100% first deposit bonus up to $200,” which means if you deposit $200, you’ll get an additional $200 as a bonus, effectively doubling your initial deposit.

Match deposit offer

Deposit bonus in general is not limited to just the first deposit, although it can be. With a match deposit bonus, the casino will match a percentage of the player’s deposit with bonus funds. The percentage match and the maximum bonus amount may vary from one promotion to another. For instance, a casino might offer a “50% match deposit bonus up to $100,” which means if you deposit $200, you’ll receive a $100 bonus, as it’s 50% of your deposit.

Loyalty / VIP program

A loyalty program is a system used by the best online casinos to reward players for their ongoing activity and engagement with the platform. Players earn loyalty points or comp points based on their lifetime deposits, which accumulate over time. These points can be redeemed for various rewards like bonus funds, free spins, exclusive offers, or even real-world prizes. Loyalty programs often have tiers or levels, with better rewards unlocked as players accumulate more points. Participation is usually automatic for all players, and rewards are earned passively as players engage with the casino.

Bonus codes

Bonus codes are sometimes random strings of numbers and letters, but more usually they are keywords with some connecting meaning for example 777Cherry’s bonus code “WIZARD50” for the slot game Blue Wizard earns you 50+ free spins.

Players can enter their codes during the deposit or registration process to unlock specific bonuses or promotions. These bonuses can include deposit match bonuses, bonus spins, no deposit bonuses, or special event promotions. Bonus codes are distributed through various channels such as email newsletters, social media, or affiliate websites.

Unlike loyalty programs, which reward accrued lifetime deposits and ongoing activity, bonus codes offer immediate or short-term bonuses that players can access by actively entering the provided codes. They are not automatically applied and require players to take action to avail themselves of the associated promotions.

Find each ongoing bonus code right here:

MrQ promo code – “TALKSPORT35“
Winomania code – “JULY11”
777Cherry bonus code – “WIZARD50“
PriveWIN promo code – “REEL”
HotStreakSlots promo code – BASS20

No deposit bonus

A no deposit bonus is a type of promotion where players receive a bonus without needing to deposit any money. It provides players with a lot of added value. It’s typically given upon registration or as a reward for loyalty. No deposit bonuses can include bonus spins, bonus funds, or free play time. They allow players to try out games and services risk-free. However, they often come with terms like wagering requirements and withdrawal limits that players should review before claiming.

What to watch out for when using casino bonuses

When I started playing at online casino sites I’ve ran into my fair share of trouble with bonuses. The first issue was finding them, then the second was finding good ones, and the third was finding the ones I can use, the ones I was eligible for.

The last obstacle was the most troublesome as I was counting on the extra free spins that I was promised and wanted to use them but wasn’t able to. So I got quite annoyed, dialed up the customer service and received an unsatisfactory answer.

I wasn’t satisfied not because of the bad customer service, on the contrary. Their expertise and proactive replies allowed me to understand why I wasn’t eligible for the promo I wanted to use.

Quite simply, I didn’t read the terms and conditions, I didn’t understand the user interface of the website at the time, and didn’t even know that anything similar to wagering requirements existed.

Two best tips regarding online gambling I learned that day were:

Read the terms and conditions
Check if you are eligible to claim casino bonus offers
Read the wagering requirements

What are wagering requirements?

Wagering requirements (sometimes called playthrough or rollover requirements) are rules and guidelines imposed on bonus cash and earnings obtained from bonuses.

They outline the minimum bet that players must make in order to be eligible to use and withdraw any bonus earnings. The multiplier used to represent these criteria indicates how many times the initial deposit, bonus, or both must be wagered.

Wagering requirements can include but are not limited to:

Automatic exclusion

Accepting one bonus offer can automatically exclude players from being eligible for other bonuses.

Bet limits

Bonuses may impose maximum bet limits while wagering requirements are active, preventing players from placing excessively large bets to fulfill requirements quickly.

Bonus codes

Some bonuses require players to enter specific bonus codes during the deposit process to activate the offer, with incorrect codes, or not entering the codes during the specific period, resulting in the forfeiture of the bonus.

Bonus forfeiture

Attempting to withdraw funds before fulfilling the wagering requirements or violating any bonus terms may result in the forfeiture of the bonus money and associated winnings.

Bonus terms and conditions

Each bonus you use has its own terms and conditions, so be sure to read them.

Deposit limits

Some bonuses require players to deposit a minimum amount to qualify.

Exclusive bonuses

Some bonuses once used may exclude you from using others.

Game weighting

It’s possible that some of the casino games’ stakes won’t apply to your bonus wagering requirement in full. Rather, they provide a percentage of the total. The majority of bonuses have typical game weighting, but make sure to read the details of each promotion to be sure.

Location restrictions

Some bonuses might be location-specific and can not be used outside certain countries.

Payment method restrictions

Some bonuses may exclude certain payment methods, or require you to use a certain deposit method.

Sequential bonus restrictions

Players may be restricted from claiming multiple bonuses in rapid succession, needing to fulfill the wagering requirements of one before claiming another.

Special features

Bonuses may come with special features or conditions that impact wagering requirements, such as reduced requirements for players who achieve a certain status within the casino’s loyalty program.

Specific games

Some bonuses may apply only to certain games that have ongoing promotions. For example, bonus code WIZARD50 can only be used on the slot game Blue Wizard at 777 Cherry casino.

Withdrawal restrictions

Players may face restrictions on withdrawing funds until wagering requirements are met, including both bonus money and associated winnings.

How to navigate wagering requirements?

Read the terms and conditions – carefully review the terms and conditions, paying particular attention to the wagering requirements
Choose bonuses wisely – Opt for bonuses with reasonable wagering requirements that align with your gaming style
Understand game contributions – Not all games contribute equally to fulfilling wagering requirements
Keep track of your progress – Maintain a record of your wagering progress to ensure compliance with the requirements

How do I register at a great online casino?

Unlike understanding all the terms and conditions, wagering requirements and other legal documents registering is quite simple.

I’ll use talkSPORT BET registration process as an example. By following my steps for account registration you will be able to register on any online casino you want.

#1 Firstly I went to talkSPORT BET’s website, which I could have done either by googling or by clicking on one of the links on my page.

#2 Secondly I had to click on the yellow “Sign Up” button

#3 When I clicked on the button, a new screen appeared asking me for my details

#4 The first part I had to fill in my personal details, like my full name, DoB and phone number

#5 In the second part I had to fill in my address

#6 And lastly I had to provide my email, and come up with a password. Also in order to continue I had to accept the Terms & Conditions & Privacy Notice. For Marketing communications I also ticked yes, because I didn’t want to miss out on any offers.

#7 All in all, this was quite an easy and straightforward account creation process at talkSPORT BET.

How to deposit at top UK casino sites

I’ve deposited cash at countless casino sites over the years, and even though there are slight differences, the steps you go through are basically the same. Therefore, you can follow the steps below and find your way through the payment process at virtually every UK online casino you use:

Use our secure links to join the top UK casino online for you.
Fill out the registration form, sign the user agreement, and verify your account.
Log into your account and tap the “cashier” button (this might be within your account settings page).
Choose a secure payment option from the list of options, e.g. PayPal or Pay by Mobile.
Input a deposit amount (the average minimum deposit is £5 or £10) and confirm the transaction.
If you claimed a welcome offer, you will find the bonus amount under a “My Bonuses” tab or something similar.

A few words of caution before signing up for any top casino in UK – always check the terms and conditions for every bonus you can claim, read the fine print for minimum and maximum deposits, wagering requirements, which slot game or live dealer game you can use it on (and at what spin value), game restrictions, whether the free spin winnings have an upper limit, etc.

Check out the best 10-pound deposit casinos!

Of course, even the best gambling establishments are still in the business of making money, so remember to stick to your bankroll, play responsibly, and keep your casino experience light and fun

Withdrawing funds at online casinos

Withdrawing your winnings is totally safe, but there are three things to keep in mind. Firstly, you’ll need to verify your identity before you can make an initial withdrawal. You do this by providing copies of your ID. The security team will verify the documents and approve your account for withdrawals.

Secondly, you won’t be able to make withdrawals with an active bonus. Or, to be more precise, you can make a withdrawal, but you’ll forfeit your casino bonus unless you’ve completed the wagering requirements. Finally, in most cases, your money will be sent to your original deposit method. If that’s not possible, you’ll be asked to choose a different option.

Making a withdrawal is pretty much the same as making a deposit:

Tap the “cashier” button (this might be within your account settings page).
Choose a secure withdrawal option/confirm your original deposit method.
Input an amount (the average minimum withdrawal is £10) and confirm the transaction.
Wait for the transaction to be processed internally (this takes between 12 and 72 hours).
Funds will appear in your account within one to five days after processing. My tip is to use eWallets as they offer the fastest withdrawal times.

Why you should trust me

I’ve talked a lot about what I like and how I review online casinos, but why should you listen to me? It’s important to be sceptical in life, particularly when people are telling you to try online gambling sites, but I’ve been in this business since 2010, so I know a thing or two. I don’t have any allegiances to gambling operators.

I know who the so-called major players are, but that doesn’t mean I back them unequivocally. I take everything on merit because I’ve been burned in the past by putting my faith in casino sites that weren’t everything they claimed to be. That’s why I’ll never recommend an online casino that I’ve not tested or assessed in terms of its regulatory status.

Being an industry veteran means I’ve seen trends come and go. I know what works, and I know what customers expect. Innovative products and features are great, but at the end of the day, quality always wins. That’s why I’ll always choose casinos that consistently deliver high-quality games, software and promotions over one that’s touting some newfangled invention.

Quality always counts

Don’t get me wrong, I love casinos that try something different, but this can’t come at the expense of quality. That’s why you’ll see me recommend the same brands time and time again. Names like talkSPORT BET, Mr Vegas and Duelz have proven over time that they’re top performers. Saying that, I’m not afraid to cut a casino from my list if its quality drops.

Finally, I don’t expect you to take my word for it. Yes, I’ve been in the business for more than 10 years, but I’m not the only authoritative voice you should listen to. Below are some of the organisations responsible for ensuring UK gambling sites are among the best in the world when it comes to quality and safety. Any operator approved by these organisations should be seen as legit:

I am also a huge advocate for responsible gambling. Gambling should be fun, and if you ever feel like you are in need of help, I would recommend one of the following resources:

UK online casino industry stats & predictions

According to the latest report on the state of gambling – and online gambling in particular – in the UK, we are seeing the following trends*:

Online gambling is projected to grow past £10.5 billion in the UK in 2024.
The online casino revenue is expected to peak in 2025, at £5.01 billion, lowering back to £4.92 billion by 2028.
Online lotteries should be the biggest contributor to revenue in the coming years, with online casinos coming in second at around £0.4 thousand per user per year until 2028.
The total UK player number should settle at 20.6 million users in the next four years.
The UK was the second-biggest online casino earner in 2023, after the US, and this trend is expected to continue in the following years, with the US pulling further ahead.
The UK was the leader in user penetration until 2020, when it was overtaken by Canada; still, UK percentages remain high, and are expected to reach nearly 30% (29.4) by 2028.
On the downside, online casino revenue is expected to climb only for the next two years, taking a 0.3% downturn in 2026, followed by a reduction of 0.9% in 2027, and finally another downsize of 0.7% in 2028.

*Source: Online Gambling: market data & analysis report by Statista Market Insights

Online casinos Q&A: Your questions answered

If you are a fresh arrival to the world of online gambling, navigating the world of casinos, slots, and betting can feel daunting. Don’t worry, you’re not the only one who feels this way, which is why I’ve put together this comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about online casinos and gambling.

1. Can I get bonuses after signing up at an online casino?

You can get bonuses after registering with UK online casinos. These rewards are known as welcome bonuses and come in the form of free bets, site credit, and spins. Welcome bonuses can be no deposit offers (free casino bets with no deposit required) as well as deposit bonuses.

2. Are casino apps free to use?

Yes, you can download and use casino apps for free. Not only are casino apps free to download, but they also contain free-play games once you create an account. Also known as demo games, free-play games allow you to enjoy an authentic casino experience using a virtual bankroll (i.e. betting chips without any real-world value).

3. Are online casinos safe?

Yes, online casinos licensed by an established regulator are safe. Casinos in the UK and Ireland will be licensed by the Gambling Commission and Malta Gaming Authority. These regulators ensure casinos comply with strict standards relating to game integrity, data encryption and payment processing.

talkSPORT BET, Mr Vegas and Duelz are among the safest UK online casinos. They’ve been approved by the Gambling Commission and feature TLS data encryption software. These operators also ring-fence player funds and have games certified as safe by independent testing agencies.

4. What is security like at the UK best casino online?

Security at the best casino sites online is extremely high. Regulations state that casino sites and apps must encrypt customer data using the latest TLS protocols. Additionally, games are certified as fair and safe by third parties such as iTech Labs, while payments are handled by reputable banking institutions.

5. How many online casinos operate in the UK?

There are hundreds of online casinos in the UK, but you should only use ones licensed by the Gambling Commission. I’ve tested upwards of 100 online casinos in my time, and I rank talkSport, BetMGM and Bally Casino among the best.

6. Which online casino has the highest payout rate?

talkSPORT BET Casino has been the best payout online casino for quite some time now. It owes its high payouts to the fact it has progressive jackpot slots like Mega Moolah, which have payouts topping £4 million. Players at this casino can also play for £20,000 raffle prizes, drop & win prizes, and daily jackpots topping £10,000.

7. What are the characteristics of the best UK online casinos?

I recommend online casinos with a diverse selection of games, bonuses with non-restrictive wagering requirements and fast withdrawals. It’s also good to have a solid mobile app and a variety of safe payment options. The top 10 casino sites in my toplist fulfill all these requirements.

8. Can you win real money with online casinos?

Yes, you can win real money prizes at licensed UK online casinos. In fact, I suggest that you only play real money games at legal UK casino sites. These sites are not only legal but have been tested to ensure they offer the highest levels of safety, security and fairness. However, players should remember that they are never guaranteed a win, and that they should always gamble responsibly.

9. Did the cost of living crisis affect the UK online casino market?

No. In fact, the UK gambling industry experienced year-on-year growth throughout 2022, going up 18.1% from 2021. UK online gambling revenue has fluctuated since 2022, but according to the Gambling Commission, this isn’t due to the cost of living crisis. Instead, it’s a result of stricter financial checks designed to protect players. So, the changes in activity are actually the result of measures making things safer for you.

The best UK online casino – Final thoughts

In 2024, the best online casino I’ve tested is Mr Vegas. Its enormous game section, two-part welcome bonus (one of which needs no deposit!) and easy access to all site areas make it the ultimate choice for any gambler, be they seasoned veterans or newbies looking to spin their first reel.

More reviews of the top-rated UK casinos from my team

About the author

Daniel Smyth

Follow Daniel on Twitter @DanSmythThePoet

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chase their losses
Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

WIN! The ultimate football entertainment package, with Coral’s Football Fan Face off!

Hannah — Sun, 21 Jul 2024 23:01:06 +0000

Ahead of the new football season, we have teamed up with Coral to give away a fantastic entertainment package to celebrate the fans this year!

The prize haul includes a 65” TV, a home cinema system, official team jerseys for two people, a BBQ, and a subscription to FourFourTwo football magazine!

If you would like to be in with a chance of winning this incredible prize, we are looking for players to take part in Coral’s Football Fan Face off on talkSPORT Breakfast every day next week. Two players will go head to head each day and answer 5 football-related questions each. The player with the most correct answers will win the prizes!

Register your details below and you could join talkSPORT Breakfast (0600-1000) on-air next week. Ten players will be randomly selected from all valid entries, entries close Thursday 1st August 2pm. Play Coral’s Football Fan Face off all next week on the Superstar Breakfast on talkSPORT with Coral – We’re here for it! 18+, begambleware.org.

T&C’s apply.

WIRELESS GROUP MEDIA (GB) LIMITED – PROMOTION GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The Promotion

1. 1. By submitting an entry to any competition or promotion (the “Promotion”) organised by or on behalf of Wireless Group Media (GB) Limited and/or any of its affiliated companies (in each case, the “Promoter”, “we”, “us” and “our”), you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions (the “Terms and Conditions”).
  2. For the purposes of these Terms and Conditions, the Promoter includes (a) all radio stations operated by any member of the Wireless Group Media (GB) Limited group, and (b) all agents, sponsors and event promoters involved in organising Promotions through or on behalf of any member of the Wireless Group Media (GB) Limited group.
  3. In addition to these Terms and Conditions, other specific terms and conditions may apply to a particular Promotion (the “Specific Terms and Conditions”). Such Specific Terms and Conditions will be posted on the relevant Promoter’s website (the “Website”) and will be deemed incorporated into these Terms and Conditions. Promotional materials relating to the Promotion, including all information on how to enter the Promotion, published on the Website (including social media if applicable) also form part of these Terms and Conditions. In the event of any conflict between these Terms and Conditions and the Specific Terms and Conditions, the Specific Terms and Conditions take precedence.
  4. The Promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend any Promotion, these Terms and Conditions and/or any Specific Terms and Conditions at any time. Any such cancellation or any material amendment will be notified by posting the updated Terms and Conditions and/or Specific Terms and Conditions on the Website.

Participation in the Promotion

1. The Promotion is only open to residents of the United Kingdom. Non-UK residents may be admitted at our discretion and if permitted by applicable local law. If non-UK residents are admitted to enter the Promotion, this will be explicitly set out in the Specific Conditions of the Promotion. The following individuals are not eligible to enter the Promotion:
  1. employees and agents of the Promoter, News Corp UK & Ireland Limited or any other associated company;
  2. employees and agents of any organisation directly connected with the operation or fulfilment of the Promotion (including third party promotional partners and the Prize Provider) and their respective associated, affiliated or subsidiary companies;
  3. the immediate families and household members of all such employees and agents referred to in paragraphs 2.1.1 and 2.1.2;
  4. anyone who has won a Prize in any Promotion operated by the Promoter within the last 12 months; and
  5. Individuals under 18 years of age.
2. By entering the Promotion, you confirm that you are eligible to do so and are eligible to claim the Prize you may win. We may require you to provide proof that you are eligible to enter the Promotion.
3. You must comply with the laws that apply to you in the jurisdiction that you access the Promotion from. If any laws applicable to you restrict or prohibit you from entering the Promotion, you must comply with those laws and, if applicable, refrain from entering the Promotion.
4. The start and closing date for a Promotion (the “Promotion Period”) will be stated in the Specific Terms and Conditions and/or marketing materials. Where a Promotion has a closing date and/or time, all entries must be received before such date and/or time. Late entries will be void and will not be taken into consideration in the selection of a winner of the prize (the “Winner”).

The Promotion dates are Monday 22nd July 2024 00.01 – Thursday 1st August 2024 14.00 (Promotion Period).

To enter the Promotion, Entrants must submit their entry using the official entry method as indicated in the Specific Terms and Conditions and promotional materials during the Promotion Period.
Each individual who submits an entry to the Promotion during the Promotion Period (an “Entrant”) may make a maximum of one entry per person during the Promotion Period, unless otherwise stated. Entrants may only win one prize per person per Promotion (a “Prize”), irrespective of the number of entries submitted, unless otherwise stated. Bulk, automatically generated (including by chatbots such as ChatGPT or similar applications) or third party entries are void.
Proof of making a phone call, sending post or an email is not proof of our receipt of your entry. We accept no responsibility for entries that are lost, delayed, damaged or otherwise affected by matters outside our control.
For Promotions which involve a Winner being selected via a public vote, only one vote per Entrant is permitted, unless otherwise stated. Entrants must use their legal name and must register a valid email address to be entitled to vote. Entrant IP addresses may be logged for monitoring purposes. The Promoter reserves the right to disqualify any vote if it has reasonable grounds to believe that it has not been cast in accordance with these Terms and Conditions or any Specific Terms and Conditions.
The Promoter reserves the right to remove or temporarily suspend from the Promotion any entries submitted if, in its reasonable opinion, it suspects any breach of these Terms and Conditions, it receives any complaint from a third party relating to such entry and/or it considers an entry by its nature to be unfair to other Entrants. Entrants who are rude or abusive to, harass or threaten the Promoter and/or other Entrants, tamper with, deceive, cheat or hack the Promotion, collude with others in entering the Promotion or are deemed otherwise unsuitable by the Promoter, will be excluded from the relevant Promotion at the Promoter’s sole discretion. Furthermore, where such actions have significantly impaired the Promotion, the Promoter may, at its sole discretion, add further stages to the Promotion as it deems reasonably necessary in order to resolve any problems arising from such actions.
Entrants are not necessarily entitled to participate in on-air Promotions and will not necessarily appear on-air in the order in which they are called. The Promoter shall not be liable to reimburse callers for telephone charges when either on hold or on-air.
If the Specific Terms and Conditions require on-air participation, Entrants must ensure they are available to participate in the Promotion at the relevant time. If a call goes to voicemail, becomes disconnected or the Entrant is not audible for any reason beyond the control of the Promoter before or during the call, the Entrant may be disqualified and the Promoter reserves the right to select another Entrant to participate in the Promotion.
The Promoter reserves the right at any time to cancel, modify or supersede the Promotion (including altering Prizes) if, in its discretion, the Promotion is not capable of being conducted as specified. In the event of a printing or other error resulting in there being more Winners or runners up than Prizes for the Promotion, the Promoter reserves the right to:
1. declare as void any claims or entries resulting from such printing or other error; and/or
2. allocate the available Prizes through a further draw or divide the Prizes or the value of the Prizes between the Winners (and runners up) of the Promotion.
By entering a Promotion, you warrant (i.e., promise) that all information submitted by you is true, current and complete. Entries to the Promotion must be the original work of the Entrant and not previously published. Entries which are or in the Promoter’s reasonable opinion appear to be plagiarised or submitted with the assistance of a third party will be disqualified. Each Entrant agrees that their entry to the Promotion (including any text, recordings, videos and photographs):
1. does not contain or feature any personal or private information about any person (including their name, contact details, a photograph of them and/or any other identifying information) without that person’s consent (proof of which must be provided to the Promoter upon request);
2. does not contain any content that is defamatory, libellous, racist, homophobic, derogatory, pornographic, obscene, sexist, illegal and/or otherwise inappropriate;
3. does not include trade marks, logos or copyright protected material which belongs to third parties without permission (including company names, music, photographs, television programme clips or audio tracks, works of art or images published on or in websites, television, movies or other media);
4. is not subject to any third party agreements and the Promoter will not be required to pay any sums to any third party as a result of the Promoter’s use (as set out in these Terms and Conditions) or exploitation of the idea, video or other rights contained in any entry; and
5. does not contain any virus, trojan horse, worm, trapdoor or similar software that may in any way infect or affect any of the Promoter’s hardware or software systems.
The Promoter does not claim any rights of ownership in your entry to the Promotion.
By entering the Promotion, all Entrants grant the Promoter a worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual licence to edit, publish and use each entry in any and all media (including print and online) for publicity and news purposes in respect of all intellectual property rights arising in and related to the entries. Each Entrant agrees that it has all rights necessary to grant the rights provided for in this paragraph 2.15, and that all materials forming part of their entry to the Promotion, and any use of such materials by or on behalf of the Promoter, comply with all applicable laws and do not infringe or otherwise violate the rights of any third party, including intellectual property rights and privacy rights.
Entries received which are not submitted via the official entry method will not be accepted. Use of script, macro or any automated system to enter the Promotion is prohibited and entries made (or which appear to have been made) using any such system may be treated as void. Any illegible, incomplete or fraudulent entries will be rejected. Entrants should be aware that they may be subject to data charges at the usual rate depending on their own individual arrangements for internet access if they enter the Promotion online or by email.
If the official entry method is phone entry, call charges will be the cost indicated in the Specific Terms and Conditions plus any applicable network access charge. The total cost for a phone entry will depend on the Entrant’s network.
If the official entry method is SMS entry, Entrants should send an SMS to the shortcode indicated in the Specific Terms and Conditions. The SMS charge will be the cost indicated in the Specific Terms and Conditions plus any applicable standard network charges. The total cost for a SMS entry will depend on the Entrant’s network. You are responsible for any phone or internet charges you may incur in entering the Promotion by SMS entry. If you are unsure about these charges, you should contact your phone or internet operator before entering.
The Promoter, its affiliates and/or the programme producers may amend or withdraw any element of a competition, prize draw, vote or poll for reasons beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to the unavailability of the vote, poll, competition or prize draw entry platform before the closing date, or for strike, lock-out, labour dispute, illness, act of God, natural disaster, adverse weather conditions, war, riot, civil commotion, accident, public health concern in relation to potential infection, epidemic or pandemic, malicious damage, fire, flood and/or storm, compliance with law or governmental order, rule, regulation or direction, breakdown of plant, machinery or transportation. The Promoter, its affiliates and/or the programme producers are not responsible for any loss or damage caused to Entrants as a result of any of these occurrences.

Winners and Prizes

1. Except where Winners are selected based on objective criteria (see the paragraph below), Winners will be chosen at random from all valid entries for the Promotion received during the Promotion Period by a computer process that produces verifiably random results, unless otherwise specified. The decision of the Promoter is final and no correspondence will be entered into. In the event of a tie-break, the promoter will announce the method of deciding the final winner in talkSPORT Breakfast.
2. Where the Winner(s) are selected based on objective criteria, each Winner will be selected by an independent judge (or a panel of judges including at least one independent member). The decision of the judge(s) is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

There will be five prize winners. There will be no other prizes for other participants or runners-up. Each winner will receive the following items: 1 x 65” 4K Smart TV, 1 x Home cinema system, 2 x Official retro team jerseys, 1 x Barbecue, 1 x FourFourTwo Annual subscription.
Prizes are subject to the following terms: The official retro team jerseys can be selected by the winner, up to the value of £130 per jersey. All prize items will be sent to the winner via post within 28 days of the winner confirming their details with the prize provider. There is no cash or other alternative to the prizes unless stated and the prizes are non-refundable and non-transferable. All prizes are subject to availability. Where the prize is not available the prize provider may offer an alternative prize of the equivalent value at their sole discretion. There are no additional prizes outside of those stated above.

The Promoter will endeavour to notify the Winner(s) by email or phone or using the other contact details provided to the Promoter within 14 days of the end of the Promotion Period unless otherwise stated. Return of any Prize notification as undeliverable may result in disqualification and the selection of an alternative Winner from the remaining valid entries received during the Promotion Period. The Prize may not be claimed by a third party on the Winner’s behalf.
We will make all reasonable efforts to contact the Winner(s). If any Winner cannot be contacted, is not available or has not claimed the Prize within 28 days of being notified, we reserve the right to offer the Prize to the next eligible Entrant selected at random.
Unless the Prize is time critical, the Prize will be delivered within a reasonable time and by no later than 28 days after the Prize has been accepted. The Winner may be required to submit valid identification before receiving the Prize.
Where a Prize includes free tickets for a particular event, the Promoter will contact the Winner by phone and Prize details shall be as printed on the event tickets. Such Winners shall be bound by (a) these Terms and Conditions, (b) any Specific Terms and Conditions that apply, (c) any terms and conditions set out on the event tickets, and (d) the rules and regulations of the particular venue (as applicable).
Where a Prize includes a gift card or voucher, such Prize will be for a pounds sterling amount. The Promoter, the provider or issuer of the Prize (the “Prize Provider”) and their respective agents reserve the right to refuse to accept gift cards which are deemed to have been tampered with, defaced, duplicated, damaged or which otherwise are suspected to be affected by fraud or which have been lost or stolen following delivery.
Where a Prize includes a holiday, accommodation and/or flight details will be set out in the Specific Terms and Conditions and/or the promotional materials for the Promotion. Unless specified in the Specific Terms and Conditions, the Prize excludes hotel transfers. The Winner and any guest(s) must travel on the same itinerary and all parts of the Prize must be used in conjunction with the same booking. The Winner and any guest(s) are solely responsible for ensuring they have valid travel documentation (including passport/visa/visa waiver as may be required), obtaining adequate travel insurance and appropriate vaccinations/inoculations for foreign travel at their own expense. The Promoter and Prize Provider reserve the right to determine a final date by which the Prize must be taken, and blackout dates may apply.
All Prizes are subject to availability.
The Winner is responsible for paying all associated costs that are not specifically stated in these Terms and Conditions, the Specific Terms and Conditions and/or any promotional materials for the Promotion, including (where applicable) transport, accommodation, meal costs, spending money, insurance and all other incidentals. Winners are also responsible for any personal or incidental expenses and any VAT, national and/or local tax liabilities incurred in claiming or using the Prize. If any of the Winner’s guests is a minor, the minor must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian (at their own expense).
By participating in the Promotion, Entrants agree that the Prize is awarded on an “as is” basis, and, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the Promoter does not make any guarantees, representations or warranties of any nature with respect to the Prize.
Prizes are as stated and are non-exchangeable and non-transferable. There is no cash or other alternative to the Prize in whole or in part. In the event of the advertised Prize being unavailable for whatever reason, the Promoter reserves the right to offer an alternative Prize of a similar nature and of an equivalent value or, at its sole discretion, the cash value of the Prize if in its reasonable discretion it is appropriate to do so.
Prizes are awarded at the Promoter’s discretion and no Prizes will be awarded as a result of improper actions by or on behalf of any Entrant. The Promoter reserves the right to require Entrants to prove that they are eligible to claim the relevant Prize. If a Winner is found to be ineligible, the Promoter reserves the right to award their Prize to another Entrant and to require the return of any Prize already awarded.
No responsibility will be accepted for inaccurate Prize details supplied by a third party promoter. The provision of the Prize does not imply endorsement by the Promoter of any third party connected with such Prize or any other third parties connected in any way with the Promotion. Any complaints or queries relating to the use of the Prize should be directed to the Prize Provider, where applicable.
The Promoter will make available the name of the Winner on written request for 28 days after the announcement of the Winner, subject to any objections from the relevant Winner. If you would like to know the name of the Winner, please send a stamped self-addressed envelope by no later than 28 days after the announcement of the Winner to News UK, Promotions Department, 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF stating for which Promotion you would like the Winner’s details. If a Winner objects to their name being made available, they should inform the Promoter at the earliest opportunity by emailing info@wirelessgroup.co.uk. The Winner acknowledges that the Promoter may still be required to share their details with the Advertising Standards Authority or other regulators.

Publicity and Data Protection

1. 1. The Promoter will collect and process Entrants’ personal information in accordance with the privacy policy at http://www.newsprivacy.co.uk/ and all applicable data protection law. The information provided may be shared with the Promoter’s agents, affiliates and, if applicable, the Prize Provider (including those outside the UK/European Economic Area) who will process such information in accordance with their own privacy policy and all applicable data protection law. Information provided by Entrants will be used for the purpose of conducting the relevant Promotion (including for Prizes to be delivered) and any other purposes as may be specified and/or consented to at the time of entry or in promotional materials. If Entrants do not provide any of the mandatory information requested when participating in the Promotion, their entry will be void.
  2. Winners may be required to take part in or co-operate with publicity or any other form of promotional activity. The Promoter reserves the right to use each Winner’s name, place of residence, photograph and any recordings of them (be it audio or visual) in any publicity or promotion (including to announce an Entrant as a Winner) and the Promoter has the right to use such photos, videos or films in any medium and in any reasonable manner for any purpose as it may see fit without any payment to the Winner.
  3. All Entrants agree to their name and place of residence being published on-air and elsewhere in accordance with regulatory requirements. Entrants agree to their participation being broadcast, recorded, repeated and otherwise used for any reason by the Promoter without being entitled to any payment for such use.

Liability

1. 1. Nothing in these Terms and Conditions shall in any way limit or exclude the Promoter’s liability for fraudulent misrepresentation, death or personal injury caused by its negligence, breach of Entrants’ statutory rights as consumers, or for any other matter where liability may not be limited as a matter of law.
  2. Subject always to paragraph 5.1, the Promoter will not be responsible for any damage, loss or injury resulting from Entrants’ entry into the Promotion, their acceptance and/or use of the Prize, their failure to redeem the Prize or for technical, hardware or software failures, lost, faulty or unavailable network connections or difficulties of any kind that may limit or prohibit an Entrant’s ability to participate in the Promotion. Your statutory rights are not affected.
  3. The Promoter will not be responsible for any lost, damaged, defaced, incomplete, illegible or otherwise unreadable entries to the Promotion.
  4. Subject always to paragraph 5.1, the Promoter, its agents or distributors will not be responsible to the Winner or accept any liability for any loss, damage, personal injury or death occurring as a result of taking up a Prize.
  5. The title in the Prize and any risk of loss or damage to the Prize will pass to the Winner upon delivery of the Prize to such Winner. The Promoter is not liable for or obliged to replace any defective, lost, damaged or stolen Prize where such defect, loss or damage is not due to the fault and/or negligence of the Promoter.

General

1. The Promoter’s decision is final and binding on Entrants. No correspondence will be entered into.
2. Entrants agree to keep confidential any information of whatsoever nature regarding the Promoter and its businesses, personnel, agents, sponsors and event promoters received by Entrants as a result of winning or participating in any Promotion.
3. Unless otherwise stated in the promotional materials and/or Specific Terms and Conditions, the Promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, the manufacturer of the relevant Prize and/or the Prize Provider. You are providing your information to the Promoter and not to the manufacturer of the relevant Prize and/or the Prize Provider (although, if you win, your details may be disclosed to the Prize Provider in order to provide you with the Prize).
4. Entrants must not do anything illegal, dangerous and/or that would put themselves or others at any risk.
5. These Terms and Conditions are governed by English law. The courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction to hear any dispute or claim arising in connection with the Promotion or these Terms and Conditions provided that such choice of law and jurisdiction will not deprive you of any mandatory consumer protections in your country of residence (if different).
6. Any enquiries regarding these Terms and Conditions and any Specific Terms and Conditions should be directed to: Wireless Sponsorship & Promotions On-Air Department, Wireless Group, 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF.
7. The Promoter and/or its affiliates may amend or withdraw any element of a Promotion for any reason beyond its reasonable control. The Promoter and/or its affiliates are not responsible for any loss or damage caused to you as a result of any event beyond its reasonable control.
8. We may transfer all or part of our rights under these Terms and Conditions to someone else without obtaining your consent provided such transfer does not significantly disadvantage you.
9. Any provision of these Terms and Conditions which is deemed illegal and/or prohibited or unenforceable under any applicable law will be ineffective to the extent of such illegality, prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions.

Last updated: 25 July 2023 (SC).

Cesc Fabregas’ Como on verge of signing Raphael Varane as stunning overhaul continues

Anton Stanley — Sun, 21 Jul 2024 21:56:00 +0000

Former Manchester United defender Raphael Varane is reportedly closing in on a move to Como 1907.

Varane is currently a free agent having seen out his contract with the Red Devils earlier this summer.

Former Man United and Real Madrid centre-back looks set to be the next big name to join the Como project

Getty

And the former Real Madrid star looks set for a move to Italy under Cesc Fabregas with Fabrizio Romano saying Varane ready to sign for Como.

Romano adds that the 31-year-old will sign a two-year deal with the option for a further year at the Serie A club.

Varane has had his share over injury issues but is now looking to revitalise his career in Italy.

The newly-promoted side – currently managed by Osian Roberts and assistant Cesc Fabregas – have plenty of high profile backers.

Thierry Henry and Fabregas both have a stake in the club which earned a spot in Serie A via a second-place finish last season.

And as they prepare for the first top-flight campaign in 21 years, they are making plenty of moves in the transfer market.

Four loan deals have become permanent, including Brazilian star Gabriel Strefezza.

But they also moved swiftly to upgrade their attacking options by landing Italy international Andrea Belotti, who joins from Roma.

Fabregas is a key figure at Como as they look to stay in Serie A long-term

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They’ve also recently announced the signings of former Liverpool duo – goalkeeper Pepe Reina and left-back Alberto Moreno.

Meanwhile, Como are also looking to sign midfielder Rodri Sanchez from Real Betis.

Varane’s Wembley showing was the perfect final performance for Man United and he’s now likely to join Como

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Shareholder Henry was all smiles as Como earned promotion

X: @CBSSportsGolazo

Como earned promotion to the Italian top flight by finishing second in Serie B last season.

Aston Villa forward Moussa Diaby closing in on Saudi Arabia move just a year after record-breaking switch

Callum Vurley — Sun, 21 Jul 2024 20:27:00 +0000

Aston Villa forward Moussa Diaby is expected to complete a move to Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad next week, talkSPORT understands.

Diaby is set for his medical after agreeing a five-year deal with Al Ittihad in a deal that will see Villa bank £60million.

Diaby could be on his way out of Villa after just one season

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Diaby only moved to Villa Park last summer in a record deal from Bayer Leverkusen for an initial fee of £43m.

But the France international is keen on making the switch to Saudi Arabia, where he would play alongside compatriots Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante.

talkSPORT understands the Midlands outfit initially not looking to part ways ways with the explosive winger.

Diaby played 54 games for Villa in his debut season at the club – featuring in 38 Premier League matches.

He scored ten times in all competitions with six coming in the English top-flight, where he was a crucial part of Unai Emery‘s attack.

The 25-year-old helped Villa finish fourth in the table to help them secure a return to the Champions League for the first time since 1983.

But Diaby may not be part of their European Cup campaign, where he could swap Europe for the Middle East to play next to Benzema up top.

Diaby could be playing with Benzema, Kante and Fabinho soon

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Diaby was sold to Aston Villa last summer

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The Real Madrid legend had a difficult first year at the King Abdullah Sports City after becoming one of the biggest signings of the summer to the Saudi Pro League last year.

The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner clashed with coach Marcelo Gallardo and was dropped from the squad for several matches before missing the end of the campaign with a muscle injury.

After finishing fifth, Gallardo was sacked and replaced with Laurent Blanc to appease Benzema.

As well as the 36-year-old, Al Ittihad made several high-profile transfers including Kante, Fabinho and Jota.

But a fee of £60m would see the club break their transfer record to sign Diaby.

Al Ittihad are also interested in Chelsea‘s Kepa Arrizabalaga, but an initial move was knocked back by the Blues.

Kevin De Bruyne has not agreed terms with Al Ittihad as Saudi club eye Man City teammate Ederson

Jackson Cole — Sun, 21 Jul 2024 20:15:34 +0000

Kevin De Bruyne has not agreed terms with Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad.

It was reported that the Manchester City icon had finalised personal terms ahead of a potential Middle East move, but talkSPORT understands a deal isn’t close to happening at present.

De Bruyne is the latest top star being eyed by Saudi Arabia, but the move may not happen until next year

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The Belgian is a target for Saudi Arabia, however the Premier League champions would want around £100million to part with one of their greatest ever players.

De Bruyne is in the final year of his City contract and the dealmakers in Saudi are happy to wait until he’s available on a free transfer next summer if needs be.

It’s also understood that De Bruyne could favour a switch to Al Hilal should he make a Saudi switch as they will be the Club World Cup representatives for the Gulf nation in 2025.

Al Ittihad, who boast Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Fabinho in their ranks, are also considering a bid for De Bruyne’s City teammate Ederson.

The Brazilian goalkeeper was subject to interest from Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, who have since pulled out of contention to sign Ederson this summer after having a £25m bid rejected.

Any interested club will be required to pay in excess of £30m to land Ederson, who’s also in the final year of his City contract, this summer.

Al Ittihad also have West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola among their list of potential targets, but no formal approach has been made for him.

De Bruyne and Ederson have been key components in City’s success under Pep Guardiola, with the pair being at the club for nine and seven years respectively.

Ederson could join De Bruyne at Al Ittihad, be it this summer or next summer

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Since Ederson arrived at the Etihad Stadium in 2017, he and De Bruyne have won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four Carabao Cups and a Champions League. They also won a Super Cup and Club World Cup last season as well as two Community Shields.

Meanwhile, Al Ittihad are expected to complete the signing of Moussa Diaby from Aston Villa next week.

talkSPORT understands a five-year deal has been agreed for the French forward, who is primed for his medical with the 2022/23 Saudi Pro League champions.

It’s understood Diaby will join Al Ittihad in a package expected to be approaching £60m.

Villa have been very busy in the transfer window having made seven signings, including left-back Ian Maatsen from Chelsea and Hull star Jaden Philogene.

The Villans are preparing for Champions League football next season having finished fourth in last season’s Premier League.

When does the summer transfer window close?

The 2024 summer transfer window officially closes on Friday, August 30 at 11pm UK time in the Premier League and at 11.30pm in Scotland.

The Premier League has brought forward deadline day this year in order to be aligned with other major leagues in Europe.

You can follow all the latest gossip, news, and confirmed deals throughout the summer in our live transfer blog here.

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