English Bookmakers Allow Heart To Rule Head For Euro 2024 Final

Spain are "deserved" favourites for Sunday's Euro 2024 final and even if England do pull off a surprise victory English bookmakers are willing to take the financial hit as for one at least it is "only money lent". Indeed it might be one occasion where the bookmakers allow their hearts to rule their heads and enjoy losing money. Even though English punters have weighed in since Gareth Southgate's side beat the Dutch at the death in their semi-final, Spain remain odds-on favourites for a record fourth European crown in Berlin.

"I take the view I can't lose, if England win, the fan in me is happy, if Spain win, the Coral man in me is satisfied," David Stevens, head of public relations at Coral, told AFP.

"If it is the former, it's only money lent.

"Spain have been the standout team in this Euros, and they are deserved favourites for Sunday's match.

"But that will not prevent those many patriotic punters getting stuck into the Three Lions, and England will be big losers come kick-off."

William Woodhams, CEO of the world's oldest bookmakers Fitzdares, largely concurs with his rival.

"Heart always wins," he told AFP.

"One result isn't going to kill the business and a bit of a feelgood factor among punters never hurts."

Indeed Woodhams also has a personal interest in England winning their first major trophy since Bobby Moore lifted the World Cup trophy 58 years ago.

"My son drew England in the nursery school sweepstake -- so I'm so competitive I want to win the £50 ($65)!"

'Rioja in the cellar'

Stevens said turnover has been ticking along nicely during the tournament though at the expense of other usually reliable money spinners.

"Football betting is a growth area, and the timing of this summer's matches has been perfect for