Entain, the global sports betting, gaming and interactive entertainment group, revealed that the British Grand Prix at Silverstone has become the most exciting race of the 2022 season, taking over 7% of Formula 1 betting last year. The findings are based on the total number of online sports bets by Entain customers for each race in the 2022 season.
While Verstappen’s dominance continues to divide Formula 1, other drivers have also shown impressive performances. Alongside Lewis Hamilton, all eyes were on Lando Norris. Thus, the three pilots formed the podium of the race in Silverstone, respectively.
According to Entain’s data, the five most exciting races and drivers likely to win them in 2022 were as follows:
British GP: This race received the highest percentage of online bets, accounting for 7.3% of the total online bets placed during the season. The Grand Prix at Silverstone has always been a fan favourite, known for its rich history, iconic circuit and passionate spectators. Hamilton fans surprised the other drivers as 27.3% of online bets on the race were on the seven-time world champion.
Saudi Arabia GP: The inaugural race in Saudi Arabia captivated F1 fans and accounted for 6.1% of total online bets placed. The allure of a new street circuit and first F1 event in Saudi Arabia has clearly caught the eye. Hamilton’s loyal fan base continued to support him, amounting to 20.1% of total online betting.
Bahrain GP: The excitement generated by the Bahrain Grand Prix was evident as it accounted for 5.8% of total online betting. As the first race of the season, the circuit offers ample overtaking opportunities, accompanied by unique challenges for the drivers. Hamilton’s fans came in force for the start of the season, where he accounted for 26.3% of the total online bets, ahead of rival Max Verstappen (19.4%).
Monaco GP: Monaco’s iconic street circuit accounted for 5.7% of total online betting, solidifying its status as a fan favorite event. The narrow streets and glamorous atmosphere create a unique and captivating spectacle that captures the imagination of fans across the world. Despite the participation of local Charles Leclerc, Verstappen received the highest number of bets online to win the race (21.3%).
Italian GP: The Italian Grand Prix rounded out the top five, accounting for 5.7% of total online bets placed and showing the passion for F1 in Italy. The legendary Monza circuit is known for its high-speed straights, which always guarantee exciting races and intense rivalries. Verstappen also topped the Monza leaderboard with 26.8% of online betting.
Indeed, Silverstone presented the pinnacle of racing excitement on a global scale in 2022, captivating the attention of punters across the world. However, the data also reveal an extraordinary surge of patriotism among supporters. Investigating the preferences of UK F1 fans, 33.8% of them put their unwavering faith in Lewis Hamilton to cross first and climb on the top step of the podium.
About Entain
Entain is one of the largest gaming and sports betting groups in the world, operating both online and in the retail sector. The group has a comprehensive portfolio of established brands; Sports brands include BetCity, bwin, Coral, Crystalbet, Eurobet, Ladbrokes, Neds, Sportingbet, Sports Interaction and SuperSport.
Gaming brands include Foxy Bingo, Gala, GiocoDigitale, Ninja Casino, Optibet, Partypoker and PartyCasino. The group owns proprietary technology across all of its core verticals and, in addition to its B2C operations, provides services to a number of third-party clients on a B2B basis.
With the introduction of more sprint races and the inaugural Formula One race at the Las Vegas entertainment venue this season, F1 fans have even more thrills to look forward to. How will this reflect the most popular and most bet races of 2023?
Dominic Grounsell, Entain Commercial Director comments: “The 2022 F1 season has been full of exciting racing. Silverstone’s position as the most exciting race is a testament to the unique blend of history, intensity and passionate support that makes the England an unmissable event for fans around the world.”
