New Vuelta sponsors face €1 million payout

Online betting company William Hill stands to make a big payout if Alejandro Valverde go on to win his first Grand Tour in Madrid on Sunday. It stated this week that 90 percent of all bets received have been for Valverde, and that this means that the green jersey sponsors would have to shell out €1 million if he tops the podium.

“Spanish gamblers have supported Valverde as if defeat is out of the question and he looks certain to repay their patriotic faith,” said spokesman David Hood. “This is the first year williamhill.com has sponsored La Vuelta and it has meant that many more people have had a bet than ever before.

“Unfortunately they have almost all bet on Alejandro and it could prove to be a very expensive event for us.”

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