The Derby is the most valuable race in Britain and of course the most important of the five Classics.

The race is run over a mile and a half for three-year-old colts and fillies, with this year's renewal going off at the new time of 4.55pm GMT.

The Oaks is run over exactly the same distance but only three-year-old fillies are allowed to race in it. That race takes place earlier in the afternoon at 3.40pm GMT.

The Derby and the Oaks normally take place on the first Friday and Saturday of June, but of course the horse racing betting fixture has been moved this year to fit around the ever changing global landscape.

The Oaks: Runners

Bharani Star

Trained by Peter Chapple-Hyam, Bharani Star was last seen finishing fourth (beaten 5 lengths) to Frankly Darling in the Ribblesdale Stakes at Ascot. Prior to that she had dead-heated at Haydock with Duke Of Condicote in a 10-runner handicap.

Dubai Love

The Godolphin-owned Dubai Love was runner-up in the UAE Oaks at Meydan in February and a close third last time out in the Sandringham Handicap at Royal Ascot.

Ennistymon

Ennistymon finished the runner-up to Frankly Darling in the Ribblesdale Stakes but there is a certain strength of feeling that a stamina testing Oaks could see this filly come into her own.

Frankly Darling

The almost impregnable Gosden-Dettori combination are represented here by Frankly Darling, an impressive winner of the Ribblesdale and a strong candidate to take top honours. Two of the latest three runnings of the Oaks have gone to the pairing.

Gold Wand

Roger Varian’s Gold Wand is a daughter of 2015 Derby hero Golden Horn and was an impressive winner of a 10-furlong maiden at Newbury on June 11th.

Love

Trained by Aidan O’Brien, Love is already a Classic winner having taken the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket on June 7th. She was however inconsistent as a two-year-old and is not 100% to follow up.

Oriental Mystique

Oriental Mystique was fifth on her reappearance over 1m2f at Newbury and looked an awkward ride that day. She could however be the type to thrive in more arduous conditions.

Passion

According to Aidan O’Brien Passion is a round type of filly who has come forward since her Ascot run. She doesn’t look like the most obvious type on paper but this is the Ballydoyle maestro we’re talking about here.

Queen Daenerys

Queen Daenerys was runner-up on her return to action in the Listed Pretty Polly Stakes at Newmarket on June 7th. She appears to have plenty to find with a few of her rivals in this.

Tiempo Vuela

Tiempo Vuela was an impressive winner on her only juvenile start but ran too freely in the Listed Pretty Polly Stakes at Newmarket and was unplaced. She needs to bounce back quickly to stand any chance of Classic glory.

The Oaks: Prediction

The Oaks is beginning to look like a straight matchup between Love and Frankly Darling, and the Frankel filly just gets the nod from us at 888sport.

Anthony Oppenheimer appears to have another top class horse on his hands with her and she could reign supreme at Epsom Downs.

The Derby: Runners

Amhran Na Bhfiann

Amhran Na Bhfiann is a brother to Oaks winner Was but that is probably where his claims to greatness end. Fourth to Tiger Moth at Leopardstown on June 9th, it will be a major shock if he can win this race.

Armory

Fourth behind Siskin in Irish 2000 Guineas on his return but looks all set to contest the French Derby instead on Sunday.

Emissary

This son of Kingman looked interesting when narrowly going down to Khalifa Sat in the Cocked Hat Stakes at Goodwood. He needs to step up again to figure.

English King

He scored a classy success in the Listed Derby Trial at Lingfield Park on June 5th and looks a worthy favourite. There are no stamina concerns and the evergreen Frankie Dettori takes the ride.

Gold Maze

Finished sixth to Santiago in the Irish Derby and looks to have a mountain to climb based on that run.

Highland Chief

Mowed down the field to spring a 20/1 surprise at Royal Ascot and a good downpour or two will further enhance his chances.

Kameko

Landed the 2000 Guineas and is arguably the best horse in the field but will his stamina stretch to this extra two furlongs? He’s the likely winner if it does.

Khalifa Sat

Has pretty much bossed his last two victories at Goodwood and could be one of the dark horses in this field.

Max Vega

Winner of the Zetland Stakes last season but could only manage fifth in the Classic Trial at Kempton on his return. He needs to step up markedly.

Mogul

Mogul scrambled away to finish fourth in the King Edward VII Stakes but Aidan O’Brien still regards him as one his leading lights for top honours.

Mohican Heights

Finished two lengths ahead of Mogul in the King Edward Stakes but was never a match for Pyledriver that day.

Mythical

Beaten favourite in the Gallinule Stakes at the Curragh and hasn’t shown enough to suggest he can win a race of this magnitude.

Pyledriver

He was an impressive winner of the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot and is worthy of his place in this race. He could be anything going forward so is impossible to discount.

Russian Emperor

Hampton Court Stakes winner Russian Emperor looks best placed to give Aidan O’Brien a record-breaking success and can continue to fly the flag for Galileo progeny in the Classics.

Serpentine

Serpentine scored a decisive victory at the Curragh last time but the opposition will be altogether tougher in this contest.

Vatican City

He ran a blinder to chase home Siskin in the Irish 2000 Guineas and a reproduction of that form would see him right in the thick of it on Saturday.

Worthily

He looked a good prospect when winning on his debut at Newbury but he is really in at the deep end now on just his second outing.

The Derby: Prediction

The Derby has been dominated by Aidan O’Brien in recent years but a newbie can finally get a look in this year in the shape of English King, trained by Ed Walker.

Owner Bjorn Nielsen will be hopeful that English King can reach the same levels of notoriety as his other equine superstar, Stradivarius.

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Akira Suemori / AP Photo*

Baseball is traditionally associated with the United States but millions of people around the world play the sport each year.

Having said that, Major League Baseball is clear as the most popular competition on the planet, with the best players lining up week in, week out.

The ultimate goal for any aspiring baseball player is to win the World Series title.

Awarded to the best team in Major League Baseball each year, the World Series is the most coveted accolade in baseball and is the subject of many MLB betting tips ahead of each campaign. 

Baseball Betting Guide

However, punters can find the latest baseball betting tips on other major leagues around the world with various bookmakers.

While MLB betting tips are common, some of the other baseball competitions are niche and only the expert baseball betting tipsters focus on these tournaments.

Learning the rules of baseball is the first step to becoming a Major League Baseball expert, and is vital before you embark on your sports betting journey. 

It isn’t the easiest game to understand but the unpredictable nature of the sport only boosts the drama and the excitement for baseball betting tips followers.

If you go back to the 1990s, you’d be hard pressed to find a UFC fan in your local area. But in recent years, the sport has flourished and it is now arguably the biggest sport in mixed martial arts.

To outsiders, UFC appears brutal in a completely different way to other combat sports but that is not the case. In fact, conditioning and skill are arguably the two most important traits in UFC – bear that in mind when placing a bet on UFC.

UFC Betting Guide

Don’t think of this guide as a basic introduction to UFC but more as a way of helping you to enhance your UFC betting experience. With a bit of luck, our best UFC betting tips could be both useful and profitable for sports betting punters.

With more UFC betting markets now widely available than ever before, it has never been a better time to get involved in mixed martial arts betting. So without further ado, it is time to get down to business with our top UFC tips.

UFC Betting Tips

You should be able to find the latest UFC betting tips and markets ahead of upcoming events with most bookmakers.

Remember to always research thoroughly when betting on UFC – the MMA landscape is ever-changing and a lot can change in a short space of time.

Follow MMA betting tips and odds ahead of major bouts, especially if there is any injury news or gossip.

As a spectacle, volleyball is a fun sport to watch. It is inclusive and suitable for families, with men, women and children playing both competitively and for fun. It's a great way to keep fit.

It is physically demanding and puts even the fittest athletes to the test – but it is incredibly exciting and requires immense skill and focus.

However, it is worth nothing that the rules of volleyball differ depending on which version of the sport you are playing.

Volleyball Betting Guide

There are two main versions of volleyball: indoor and beach. Sport betting fans who have watched volleyball at the Olympic Games will be aware of both formats.

As is the case with every sport, it is vital to learn the rules of volleyball in order to find the best way to bet on volleyball going forward.

Let’s take a look at some of the most important volleyball betting tips. With our guide (and a bit of luck), you will be a volleyball betting expert in no time!

Volleyball Betting Tips

When it comes to betting on volleyball, there are very few differences between indoor and beach volleyball, with the exception of the total points of course.

Below, we have looked at some of the most popular volleyball tips and betting markets. First, though, let's have a quick run through the volleyball rules. 

Formula One betting has never been more popular. With thousands of fans getting behind their favourite drivers ahead of each Grand Prix throughout the F1 season, it is the crown jewel of the motorsport world.

Nowadays, bookmakers offer a wide range of Formula 1 betting offers and markets to whet the appetite of punters. In years gone by, backing the outright winner of a Grand Prix was the only option but now there are hundreds of F1 betting odds to choose from.

Formula One Betting Guide

Without a shadow of a doubt, F1 is the pinnacle of motorsport betting and the Formula One World Championship is the accolade that everyone wants to win.

Drivers compete for an individual title while teams also go up against one another in the Constructors Championship.

The challenge facing every Formula One team is immense. F1 cars are designed to be faster than ever before and even the smallest change to a vehicle can make a huge difference.

Safety is obviously paramount but protocol has next to no impact on the exciting buzz of live Formula One betting.

You don’t need to be a motorsport expert to watch the Grand Prix on a Sunday afternoon but our top F1 betting tips could prove useful when betting on Formula One this season.

Ice hockey is a niche sport, particularly in the United Kingdom. The National Hockey League is undoubtedly the most popular ice hockey league on the planet, with 32 teams across the United States and Canada.

Teams play 82 games in the regular season. The sheer number of games and intense schedule gives punters an excellent opportunity to search for daily ice hockey betting tips throughout the year.

Ice Hockey Betting Guide

Widely regarded as the ‘fastest game on earth’, ice hockey is brutal. In many ways, it is the perfect sport for neutrals – with a unique blend of speed, physicality and skill, as well as the odd scrap!

Nowadays, ice hockey is an established sport around the world. Obviously, the NHL remains the ultimate goal for any aspiring young star but ice hockey betting tips are widely available across Europe, including in the Elite Ice Hockey League in the United Kingdom.

Betting on ice hockey is very straightforward and punters can find our top ice hockey betting tips guide below. Nothing quite beats the intense nature of ice hockey and it certainly ranks as one of the most exciting spectacles in sport.

Ice Hockey Betting Tips

If you are an avid sports betting tips follower you will almost certainly be familiar with most of the ice hockey betting markets. Some are unique to the sport but the majority are more general.

First and foremost, you can bet outright on a team to win a competition. For example, you could back the Cardiff Devils to win the Champions Hockey League in the latest ice hockey betting tips and odds.

The Ice Hockey World Championship is the biggest annual event, with the top international teams competing for supremacy.

Meanwhile, ice hockey is a standout event at the Winter Olympics but punters will have to wait for ice hockey betting tips as this takes place every four years.

When betting on a team to win a specific match, be wary of the ice hockey betting phrases. If the market is to win in regulation, that means your pick must win the match by the end of the third period.

However, most bookmakers allow punters to back a team to win including overtime, which offers punters added security when betting on ice hockey.

As is the case with many American sports, punters can find spread betting odds for betting on ice hockey. Essentially, this gives you an opportunity to enhance odds on a favourite if you expect a comfortable victory – this is very popular with NHL betting tips fans.

The final ice hockey betting option that is widely available is for total goals. If you expect a high scoring game, you can back the ‘over’ total goals line – this is particularly useful if you don’t have a strong fancy for either team to win the game.

Hockey Betting Tips

But it isn’t just about the National Hockey League. There are a wide range of leagues and competitions for ice hockey fans to get involved in – with matches taking place daily around the world.

Here in the United Kingdom, the Elite Ice Hockey League is the pinnacle of ice hockey.

With various prizes on offer throughout the campaign, winning the EIHL title is the ultimate aim and the likes of the Cardiff Devils, Belfast Giants and Sheffield Steelers are among the usual contenders.

It is worth nothing that the drop in quality from the NHL to other ice hockey leagues around the world can lead to a change in style.

Ice hockey is still fast and furious but you don’t need to be a huge ice hockey fan to notice the difference in speed, skill and physicality.

When looking at hockey betting tips, this is certainly something to consider.

European teams compete in the Champions Hockey League but even the best teams on the continent would struggle against an established NHL organisation – this can often lead to a gulf in class.

The NHL is the ultimate goal for any aspiring ice hockey player but there are a number of top-class leagues around the world.

In addition, players can represent their country at the Ice Hockey World Championship, which is held annually and has a relegation/promotion format in place.

Free Ice Hockey Tips

Whether you’re looking to place a bet on an upcoming ice hockey match or searching for a value outright winner, the best free ice hockey betting tip we can offer is to do plenty of research.

It may seem obvious but there are some punters who can be easily swayed by ‘expert’ tips.

Always trust your gut when looking at free ice hockey betting tips – ultimately you are the one taking the risk and placing the bet so make sure it is something that you are confident in.

Only bet when you can afford and stick to your free ice hockey betting tips budget.

Furthermore, familiarise yourself with ice hockey betting tips terms. Some tipsters will use specific phrases relating to a certain market, for example ice hockey betting tips 1x2 tends to be popular in the United States.

In the UK, this is usually known as ‘match odds’ and most bookmakers will offer this particular ice hockey market. Make sure you fully understand betting odds before betting on ice hockey.

NHL Tips

The Stanley Cup is the biggest prize on offer in ice hockey and there will be plenty of punters placing an outright ice hockey bet ahead of the upcoming campaign. Keep an eye on the each-way options for NHL outright bets, too. 

Without a doubt, it is one of the most competitive leagues in sport but there will be plenty of ice hockey betting tips available to help punters.

There are shocks aplenty in the National Hockey League and NHL betting tips followers will be used to the unpredictable nature of the division.

Every team can win on any given day and that can make predicting a match winner very difficult indeed.

However, there are a few free NHL betting tips that we can offer to help punters.

First and foremost, it is worth noting the average number of goals scored by each team. Quite often the total goals line will be a safer ice hockey bet than backing a match winner.

In addition, punters should look at form guides ahead of placing a bet on ice hockey. NHL betting tips can be found daily and matches will come thick and fast; a team's form can change in a matter of days.

Ahead of an upcoming contest, check NHL betting tips to see if it is a divisional clash or not. Most of the time, these matches tend to be cagey and physical, with fights aplenty so bear that in mind.

Free NHL Tips

If you’re looking for ice hockey betting tips, free NHL betting tips will be high on the priority list.

Betting on the National Hockey League has never been easier and we have a number of tips to help punters when betting on ice hockey.

Remember – there are plenty of NHL betting tips subscription services out there but paying for tips does NOT guarantee success.

When looking at joining a paid betting tips service, be sure to monitor profit and loss accounts before committing to a subscription.

Nowadays, free NHL betting tips are easily accessible and some of the best tipsters in ice hockey offer a free-of-charge service.

With various pages offering ice hockey betting tips on social media and on the internet, there is lots of useful information out there.

Best NHL Tips

One of the best pieces of advice is to always stick to your limits.

With most bookmakers, you can set a spending limit before betting on ice hockey while you can also create a log with all of your best NHL betting tips wagers recorded.

When it comes to betting on NHL matches, it is important to take a number of factors into account.

Firstly, fatigue and schedule – ice hockey is one of the most physically demanding sports on the planet and this will impact a team’s performance from time to time.

Secondly, the head-to-head record. Punters can find previous results and recent form ahead of most NHL fixtures and you should be sure to access these before betting on ice hockey.

As is the case with most sports, research is key to the best NHL betting tips.

Ice Hockey Tips At 888sport

While 888sport do not offer daily ice hockey betting tips, we strive to keep punters updated with the latest NHL betting tips and odds throughout the year.

Whether you are a huge ice hockey fan or relatively new to the sport, the 888sport blog is the place to be.

Ice hockey fans can find the latest ice hockey tips and NHL betting previews on the 888sport blog while there are also a number of informative ice hockey betting guides to help punters make an informed choice when betting on ice hockey.

Good luck with all of your NHL betting tips wagers going forward - be lucky!

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*Credit for the photos in this article belongs to Alamy*

By his own admission David Bentley ‘blew hot and cold’ during a career that saw him capped seven times for England and run out 184 times in the Premier League.

When he was hot the Peterborough-born playmaker had the rare ability to conjure up goals that stay long in the memory, including a spectacular 43-yard volley in the North London Derby. He was brilliant on his day.

When he was cold it was often a result of disillusionment, either at a manager or sometimes a sport that had little time for individuality.

"You can’t be robotic and calculated,” he says now about a strong sense of conviction that led to him retiring aged just 29. “That’s the best thing about me and the worst.”

Here, the much-travelled maverick revisits his former clubs, offering his thoughts on their present circumstance as well as dipping his toe in the past. We begin at the Emirates and a side struggling to embrace the future.

 

Misfiring Gunners

Bentley shot through the ranks at Arsenal, quickly gaining a reputation as England’s next-big-thing.

Despite being dubbed ‘the new Beckham’ however his opportunities were extremely limited, which perhaps shouldn’t surprise in an era that saw Arsene Wenger’s men crowned as ‘Invincibles’. Bergkamp, Ljungberg and the like are hard to budge.

Fast-forward to the here and now and youth is once again on the agenda, only this time there are a number of highly promising kids all staking a strong claim for a starting spot.

Bentley has been so impressed by Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Joe Willock that he believes Mikel Arteta’s new-look team should have the teens placed front and centre. 

"If they can just get the foundations in place so they have the right experienced players to help them then Arteta’s model will be to allow young players to develop. As long as he is given time his style of football is good for that.”

There is a hitch though to this plan and it takes the form of established, under-achieving players clearly not making way anytime soon.

Gooners and rival fans alike were shocked this week to discover that the accident-prone David Luiz has been awarded a contract extension and watching on as a fan Bentley reacted as we all did.

“I was surprised at the new contract. I don’t know if it’s because of a lack of preparation in getting players in but the recruitment with the back four is a problem. It always has been.

"David Luiz is problematic. He’s a great technical player but if you want to bring the youth through and create a winning mentality is he really the type to help with that?”

“You look at Liverpool – and Manchester United are trying to do it too – and they build a solid foundation that allows the players to express themselves.

"If you have solid back-four and solid spine of the team it’s easier for the young players to step into that. Instead Arsenal leak goals and look vulnerable.”

It is a situation brought about by financial restraints that has left Arsenal looking to their big names to pull them through only to be let down time and again. It’s a situation that has the Gunners languishing in mid-table.

“Mesut Ozil and David Luiz are on large money and if Arsenal can move these players on then Arteta will be able to spend money on transfers.

"I don’t know what the thinking is at boardroom level because Arsenal need to ship out half the team and get a good core in. That’s difficult but can be done.

"The major problem is that we don’t know if they’re singing from the same hymn sheet at boardroom level."

 

Spurs Abandon Their Style

Only a very select few have played for both North London giants and Bentley is among them.

In 2008, after excelling for several seasons for Blackburn Rovers, the midfielder ignored the advances of Manchester United and joined Harry Redknapp’s revolution at Spurs, sold on a ‘project that never materialised’.

There, he played alongside Gareth Bale, a player ‘who could do anything’, and Modric also, and much like the Pochettino period that followed, Tottenham were a joy to behold, turning on the style whenever the mood took hold. They just forgot to win silverware each time, that’s all.

Enter the serial winner Jose Mourinho whose determination to install some substance into the team seems to have come at the cost of the style Spurs supporters hold so dear. For Bentley it’s a sacrifice that doesn’t make much sense.

“Tottenham and especially the fans – and I know hundreds of them – are used to entertaining football. They want their players to express themselves and they want that kind of football.

"They have been spoilt with that kind of football and through Redknapp and Poch they have enjoyed a successful period and seen some good football under both managers.

"A lot of it has been front-foot football, pressing from the front whereas Mourinho’s teams sit deeper and it’s a different way of playing. I can see why that frustrates because playing deeper is a bit boring.

With Tottenham’s main men struggling to adapt to the Special One’s rigid demands it has left them adrift in the league, with a top four place now looking impossible.

Might this mean Harry Kane and co could be looking to move on in the next window?

“When you have Daniel Levy in charge people won’t leave unless it’s financially correct for the football club.

"We will have to see how badly the club miss out on gate revenue because that’s what the stadium was built for and Champions League football is where the players want to be. But nobody will leave unless there is an extraordinary offer that’s for sure.”

If the 35-year-old is right – and record-breaking sales in the past suggests that he is – that surely means Dele Alli will be staying at the Lane for a while yet.

For Spurs fans this would be great news but a substantial downturn in form in recent times remains a serious concern.

Like Bentley, the England international is a creative midfielder capable of the sublime. Like Bentley, he can frustrate as much as he can excite. His thoughts on Alli’s journey therefore is very much worth noting. 

“Alli has proven what he can be. He’s a great player with lots of ability. But he’s had a dip. Maybe his personal life is a bit different and he’s lost a bit of focus or something but as soon as he has that back he will come good again.

"There have been a couple of injuries but he’s still at a young age. I think most players have that during a career – you have to recharge again.

"Hopefully this has just been a recharging twelve months and he goes again because it’s a niche thing that he has. Not many can do what he does.”

 

Rovers Return

It was at Ewood Park where Bentley established himself as a genuine talent, winning the club’s Player of the Year award in 2007 and breaking onto the international scene in the process.

Under Mark Hughes he was urged to show what he could do and take chances and it is this freedom to create that he feels is severely lacking in the English psychological make-up. As his views on the present England set-up demonstrate.

“I wish England had a Bruno Fernandes but as a society we don’t like that sort of player: we don’t encourage it. It goes all the way back to Gazza. We need creative players and to give them that responsibility.

"We need players who can do what they want but the English way is to question that: what are you doing that for? You’re not better than us.”

With this in mind, it hardly surprises to learn that one of Bentley’s favourite team-mates from a decade at the highest level was a Turkish maestro who strolled instead of ran and picked passes out for fun.

"He never lost the ball and had such awareness. Could spray the ball anywhere, technical with both feet and scored some great goals.

"Tugay was brilliant and he would have made any team tick. He was probably under-rated. He was married to a basketball player. She was something like six foot eight and he was only five foot six!”

Now a successful businessman with a string of bars and restaurants, Bentley has scant time for looking back on his footballing fortunes. When he does though it’s often to Blackburn where he’ll reminisce: a career zenith.

It saddens him then to see Rovers in the Championship but he takes heart in their recent good form that has put them on the periphery of the play-offs.

“Generally a team that finishes sixth does well. Blackburn is a great football club and the area has good solid people. I loved it there so I hope they do gather momentum and go up.”

 

Happy Days At Norwich

Bentley made just the one league start under Wenger before being loaned to Norwich City for a season that ultimately ended in relegation even if the player himself impressed.

For the youngster it was a steep learning curve and for that he will always be grateful to the East Anglian outfit.

“I remember the first game I played. Phew, the pace of Premier League was very different to what I was used to so they helped me a lot.

"I owe a lot to Norwich and I enjoyed my time there. They’re a great football club and they give you a chance.

"Malky Mackay and Paul McVeigh were the big characters. Then there was Phil Mulryne who is training to be the Pope now in the Vatican. You wouldn’t have believed that if you played with him, with his red Ferrari!

"We had a good team spirit there with Darren Huckerby and Gary Doherty, the Ginger Pele. Every day was good old-fashioned banter and the whole club is built on a family friendly feel. I loved it there.”

 

*Credit for the main photo belongs to Dave Thompson / AP Photo*

Cycling isn’t the most popular sport around but it certainly attracts a reasonable amount of attention during the summer months, particularly ahead of the Olympic Games. With plenty of cycling action throughout the Games, it is well worth following the latest cycling odds.

However, the biggest cycling event is undoubtedly the Tour De France. Held annually, the famous multiple stage race traditionally kicks off at the beginning of July with 21 races over a 23-day period. Cycling betting tips and odds will chop and change daily!

Some of the greatest cyclists of all-time have been victorious in the Tour De France – an event that is widely regarded as one of the most testing in sport. It is the World Cup of cycling and millions of viewers will follow the Tour De France throughout the event.

Cycling Betting Guide

With a number of growing cycling betting markets, punters can find the latest cycling odds and tips on upcoming events.

It is worth following cycling news and trends before placing a bet on major competitions, particularly to monitor injury and team news.

So if you’re thinking of betting on cycling, you are in the right place. Here at 888sport, we have produced this informative cycling betting tips guide for punters – which will hopefully be useful for the cycling novice as well as the Tour de France expert!

Cycling Betting Tips

The most important piece of advice for betting on cycling is to keep up with current cycling trends. It is undoubtedly one of the most physically demanding sports and the landscape of the sport can change in a matter of months.

Some events place emphasis on speed, others require great stamina. Research thoroughly into the different types of race – whether it is an individual pursuit, the keirin or even the Tour de France, the style of race will change drastically and certain riders will suit certain events.

There are two main forms of cycling: track cycling and road cycling. Track events take place in a velodrome while road cycling is outdoors – the former includes individual competitions while the latter tends to revolve around cycling as a team.

In team cycling betting events, the role of the breakaway is very important. More often than not, at least one rider will attempt to pull away and live cycling odds can shift drastically if an early move is made. It is worth noting thought these moves very rarely pay off.

A rider’s schedule is also crucial when betting on cycling. Due to the high physical demands of the sport, punters may be tempted to consider a rider in the cycling betting tips that has given themselves a period of time to recover before a major event.

In the Olympic Games, the events come thick and fast – and only the elite will be able to succeed in multiple disciplines. Recovery time is minimal at the Olympics so that is another factor to take into consideration when pondering a cycling each-way bet.

Free Cycling Tips

Cycling certainly qualifies as a niche sport so plenty of punters will be looking for the best cycling betting tips ahead of major events.

There are plenty of free cycling betting tips on offer to punters – with some of the best tipsters in cycling covering every competition.

As is the case with many cycling events, some competitions have multiple stages and some riders will fare better early on at an event than later on in proceedings.

Consider all betting options; not just for an outright winner but handicap betting against the field and the speed of a particular race are two interesting cycling betting tips.

One of our biggest cycling betting tips is to consider free cycling betting tips over a paid tips subscription.

While paying for cycling tips can pay dividends in the long term, only the very best tipsters should be considered and punters should do their research before signing up for paid sports betting tips.

Tour de France Tips

First held in 1903, the Tour de France is widely regarded as the most difficult bicycle race on the planet.

The planned route changes each year but the format of the event remains the same, starting with time trials and finishing on the Champs-Elysees in Paris.

Over 150 riders compete in the Tour de France, with eight people per team. Cycling betting tips usually focus on one particular rider though – teams quite often adopt a strategy to give their best rider the chance of victory.

There is a four-way tie at the top of the Tour de France winner leaderboard, with Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault and Miguel Indurain each winning the race on five occasions. British rider Mark Cavendish, meanwhile holds the all-time record for the most stage wins.

Betting on the Tour de France is ideal for passionate cycling fans – whether you’re placing an outright winner bet or fancy a particular rider to win a specific stage.

The versatile nature of the event is what makes it an attractive prospect for sports betting fans.

Olympics Cycling Tips

Great Britain also have an excellent record when it comes to cycling events at the Olympic Games, with the likes of Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Bradley Wiggins and Dame Laura Kenny thriving on the biggest stage of all. Follow the latest cycling betting tips and news before the upcoming Olympics – it will be here before you know it!

Ultimately, the main difference between Olympics cycling and other cycling betting tips are that they revolve entirely around a team. Winning a medal for yourself is one thing but to win for your country brings a whole new perspective to the sport.

Cycling at the Olympic Games is intense, with excitement in the velodrome and drama in the road cycling events. Betting on cycling at the Olympics can prove lucrative but punters must be sure to research thoroughly as some teams excel in certain events.

France are the most successful nation at the Olympic Games, with 102 cycling medals won – 44 of which have been gold medals. The best French riders are likely to be popular in Olympics cycling betting tips ahead of the Games. 

Cycling Betting Tips At 888sport

Betting on cycling at 888sport has never been easier. With a designated section for all of the biggest cycling events, punters can access cycling odds in the build-up to major competitions such as the Tour de France and the Olympic Games.

Throughout the summer, cycling betting tips will be available on most major events and the number of cycling ‘experts’ is likely to soar.

As with all betting tips, be sure to trust your own judgement and cycling betting knowledge rather than taking advice at face value.

Furthermore, punters can find the most important cycling betting updates on the 888sport blog.

With breaking news articles, latest cycling tips and Tour de France betting history, it is the place to be for all things cycling as we approach a busy period for the sport.

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*Credit for the photos in this article belongs to Alamy*

Rugby is one of the most traditional British sports and you can trace the origins of rugby union back to the mid-19th century.

Since then, the sport has evolved somewhat – and the formation of rugby league some 50 years later is perhaps the biggest change of all.

To this day, we are still blessed with both codes – much to the delight of rugby fans around the world.

While union focuses more on power and organisation, league is played at a much quicker pace and is arguably more skilful when it comes to attacking the try line.

Rugby betting for both codes is fairly similar though there are some major differences that must be noted.

These mainly relate to the different rules in union and league; the number of points for scoring, interchanges and format of competition are just three of the most obvious variations.

Rugby Betting Guide

The pinnacle of rugby union is the Rugby World Cup. This is the competition that everybody wants to win yet England are the only northern hemisphere side to lift the famous trophy.

The early rugby betting tips and odds will likely have New Zealand as firm favourites to claim victory at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Meanwhile, there is a Rugby League World Cup but that tournament isn’t as popular as the union version. It does, however, still amass plenty of sports betting interest.

Super League is the biggest club competition in the United Kingdom while the NRL is the standout event in Australia. Rugby league is massive Down Under and the success of the NRL has been key to their dominance on the international stage.

Without further ado, let’s get down to the important bit: our top rugby betting tips. We’ve got some general rugby betting advice along with more specific rugby union betting tips and rugby league betting tips.

Hopefully our words of wisdom can help punters to enjoy success when betting on rugby in the future!

Rugby Betting Tips

Whether you’re a rugby union fan or passionate about rugby league, one thing is for sure: both codes are extremely physical and put immense strain on players.

Fatigue and injuries play a major role in both sports, with impact injuries particularly common in union. These are factors to bear in mind when evaluating the betting markets, and could push you towards the half-time betting options.

In recent years, rugby governing bodies have enforced stricter rules relating to player safety.

Officials now have more power and red cards are being shown a lot more frequently than in years gone by – punters should bear that in mind ahead of a particularly fierce rivalry.

A total of 33 red cards have been shown at the Rugby World Cup since 1987, with seven of those handed out at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Every rugby union betting tips follower should be wary of this statistic and consider placing a card bet on upcoming fixtures.

Meanwhile, rugby league is still physical but the sport has evolved to focus more on skill and keeping the ball alive through the six phases of play.

We would always recommend backing the ‘over’ number of tries line ahead of a major rugby league clash.

Defence is obviously still important in rugby league but there is certainly a ‘we will outscore you’ mentality in the sport, particularly in the southern hemisphere.

Punters should be sure to research thoroughly before betting on rugby league as there are clear differences in style depending on the hemisphere.

Finding the best rugby betting tips is difficult when speaking about rugby as a whole. There are a number of ways punters can tweak their rugby betting strategy depending on if the sport in question is union or league.

You can find our top rugby betting tips for both codes below…

Rugby League Tips

Rugby league is popular in the north of England, with the likes of St. Helens, Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves enjoying success in recent years.

The NRL and Super League are the two biggest rugby league betting competitions and the Super League Grand Final is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar.

One thing to consider when betting on rugby league is the total points market.

Despite a try being worth four points in league compared to five in union, more often than not the points line will be higher – the average league game will have more scores than union.

Margin betting is an interesting angle for rugby league fans.

You can back a team to win by 1-6 points if you expect a tight game to be settled by less than a converted try or back the blowout, with some bookmakers offering a team to win by 19 or more points.

Rugby Union Tips

One of our top tips when betting on rugby union is to consider backing total points scored by a specific player.

Penalties and drop goals are worth three points compared to two and one respectively in rugby league so backing the team’s goal kicker can prove prudent.

Nowadays, conditions play a major part in the style of union fixtures.

Prime conditions can often see high scoring matches while rain and wind can level the playing field and almost encourages a war of attrition. Betting markets will shift drastically depending on weather conditions…

This is certainly something to bear in mind when looking at rugby union betting tips. Some teams prefer playing under a closed roof to avoid such problems, while also intensifying the atmosphere for visiting teams.

Wales, for example, regularly ask to close the Principality Stadium roof but require permission from the away side in Six Nations fixtures.

Rugby World Cup Tips

Held every four years, the Rugby World Cup sees the best teams in the business go up against each other in a bid to lift the Webb Ellis Cup.

South Africa are the most successful team in Rugby World Cup history with four titles.

While the usual contenders tend to battle it out for World Cup glory, it is worth noting that a lot can change in the four-year cycle between tournaments.

As the tournament edges closer, punters can usually find Rugby World Cup predictions and betting odds, to qualify odds and sometimes even a market that allows bettors to predict how many points a team will secure during the group stages.

Super Rugby Tips

Super Rugby is the highlight of the rugby union domestic game.

Featuring the best teams in the southern hemisphere, Super Rugby betting tips are popular with union fans around the world. You can often find Super Rugby live on Sky Sports on a Saturday morning!

With so much attacking talent on show, Super Rugby matches are usually entertaining and there is plenty of drama and excitement from start to finish.

Be sure to factor in the step up in quality when looking at Super Rugby betting tips on southern hemisphere matches.

Free Rugby League Guide

There are a few important factors to consider when betting on rugby league.

Firstly, with regards specifically to Super League – travel. With the Catalans Dragons and Toronto Wolfpack now competing in the competition, some teams may experience fatigue if hit by a congested fixture list.

The rugby league landscape is everchanging, with salary caps playing a key role in forming teams across the globe.

Some teams manage to consistently perform at the top of the sport while others will enjoy the odd year of success – this helps the unpredictability of rugby league.

Furthermore, always consider exploring a range of free rugby league betting tips before you commit to a paid tipster service.

There are a number of reputable rugby league betting tips experts who offer free advice on the biggest tournaments and competitions.

Free Rugby Union Guide

Aside from keeping a close eye on weather conditions and backing the kicker, one of the most important rugby union betting tips is to follow injury news closely.

Losing a key man can prove costly, particularly in tight contests between the top union nations.

Some countries are blessed with a huge talent pool but many do not have that luxury.

You will often see teams like New Zealand experiment with players against some of the ‘lesser’ nations. While nations like Scotland and Argentina have less strength in depth.

Even though the All Blacks are still mighty, they can lose some of that pizazz if they rotate their XV and handicap odds on the underdog are worth monitoring in rugby betting tips.

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*Credit for the photos in this article belongs to Alamy*

If you are a fan of American football, then there is probably a good chance you will have looked at NFL betting tips at least once.

Whether you enjoy betting on the NFL every weekend or simply wish to enhance your Super Bowl experience with a fun bet, our NFL betting tips guide can give you an edge when American football betting.

Winning the Super Bowl is the dream for every NFL organisation and punters regularly place a bet on the showpiece winner after looking at NFL Super Bowl betting tips at the beginning of the season.

The NFL regular season kicks off in September and usually ends at the start of January, with the playoffs taking place in the build-up to the Super Bowl in February.

NFL Betting Guide

American football fans will be keeping a close eye on the NFL Draft betting tips ahead of the new season. The NFL Draft gives supporters insight into some of the top prospects making the step up from college to professional level.

Some of the greatest players in NFL betting history have been selected with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft but it doesn’t always work out that way.

Tom Brady, for example, was taken by the New England Patriots with the 199th overall pick in the 2000 NFL Draft.

Without further ado, let’s get down to the important stuff: our best NFL betting tips. With a bit of luck, our American football guide can help punters profit when betting on NFL this year…

NFL Betting Tips

The easiest and most popular way to bet on NFL is to back a team to win a match.

As is the case with most American sports, bookmakers usually offer this as the ‘money line’ while also offering the chance to back a team to win by a certain number of points.

The NFL handicap betting line differs depending on the match you use but punters can also decide to back the underdog to win, draw or lose by a certain margin.

For example, if the Dallas Cowboys are +5.5 points underdogs, your bet would win if they lost by five points.

Meanwhile, some punters prefer to back the over/under total points line in some games.

If there are two top quarterbacks going up against one another, it may prove prudent to back a high-scoring game instead of committing to placing an NFL bet on a team to win.

Furthermore, punters can place a long term outright bet on a team to win a division, their conference or the Super Bowl. Look out for each-way betting options when evaluating NFL outright markets.

Some bookmakers will let punters place an NFL accumulator bet on divisional betting so be sure to do your research before betting on NFL.

Here at 888sport, we also give customers the chance to bet on specific teams.

Ahead of the upcoming season, punters can back ‘yes or no’ for a team to make the playoffs while there is also a market relating to number of wins recorded in the regular season.

NFL betting tips are widely available on the internet and American football is growing at an incredible rate. The NFL sports betting markets are only growing in popularity.

NFL UK fans have been treated to a number of exciting International Series fixtures in London over the past decade and long may it continue.

If you enjoy college football betting, you can use that knowledge to your advantage at NFL level.

With NFL betting tips and odds for Rookie of the Year awards ahead of each season, punters can often find lucrative betting picks on some of the most sought-after talents.

Our best piece of advice when it comes to betting on the NFL is to research thoroughly and stick to one particular betting system.

American football betting markets now give punters a plethora of options and the key to success is finding a betting strategy that works for you.

American Football Betting Tips

Betting on the NFL is an exciting experience, with games swinging back and forth over four intense quarters.

As proven by the New England Patriots in that infamous Super Bowl win over Atlanta Falcons, momentum can shift quickly in American football and that contributes massively to the entertainment.

In addition, it is worth noting that the NFL is not the only American football competition in the world.

College football is incredibly popular across North America and more fans on this side of the Atlantic Ocean are starting to tune in to watch the best prospects in the sport.

The race for the National Championship game is enthralling, with twists and turns over the course of the season.

NFL betting tips will be impacted by some of the standout players in this contest and every organisation will want to sign the stars who shine on the big stage.

Furthermore, some bookmakers also cover the Canadian Football League – also known as the CFL.

The Grey Cup is among the most prestigious trophies in American football and that is the target for the competing CFL teams at the beginning of each season.

More often than not, punters can bet in-play on CFL matches during the campaign.

Like the college game, there are the usual contenders who feature prominently at the business end of the year and shrewd punters will follow the latest CFL betting tips before placing a wager. 

Free NFL Betting Tips

American football’s rise to prominence in this country has led to a huge improvement with regards to knowledge of the sport.

With that in mind, free NFL betting tips can often be as lucrative as paid tips these days – there are certainly plenty of options for punters.

Some tipsters will claim to be NFL experts but it is well worth doing your research before taking their word as gospel.

Find the most successful NFL betting tips writers in the industry and keep track of their selections for a few weeks before investing any money.

You’ll notice that most of the top NFL betting experts tend to follow a specific system.

Some will choose a number of home teams to win each week while others will always back certain teams to record over the set number of points.

Free NFL betting picks can be found on the 888sport blog – along with a range of American football betting guides and helpful hints.

At the end of the day, punters can make their own minds up on selections but NFL tips and advice can prove very useful.

One of our biggest NFL betting tips is to consider whether paying for tips is the best way to enjoy your NFL betting experience while standing a better chance of making profit.

Always research thoroughly when joining a paid betting tips service – most tipsters will provide an up-to-date profit/loss account.

NFL Super Bowl Betting Tips

The Super Bowl is the highlight of the NFL season and it is one of the most watched sport events of the year.

Millions of American football betting fans from around the world tune in to watch the Super Bowl each year, with the half-time show attracting lots of attention from non-sport fans.

Betting on the Super Bowl has never been easier – whether you are a NFL betting expert or a newbie to American football.

With various special Super Bowl odds in the build-up to the contest, punters can access a wide array of American football betting tips.

From betting on the coin toss to backing the colour of the Gatorade that is thrown over the winning head coach, punters can find Super Bowl betting tips on almost every market.

You can even place a bet on how long the national anthem will last if you want to!

The Super Bowl takes place at an unsociable hour in the United Kingdom but that shouldn’t put punters off.

There are often favourable in-play NFL betting odds available on the Super Bowl and it is well worth staying up to watch the biggest NFL event of the year.

All roads lead to the Super Bowl and all 32 NFL organisations will be dreaming of lifting the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

Only one team can prevail, however, so best of luck with your NFL betting tips research and who knows, you could be celebrating a winning Super Bowl bet.

NFL Betting Tips With 888sport

The latest NFL betting tips can be found on the 888sport blog throughout the year, with long term Super Bowl tips and American football betting previews.

888sport is the place to be for cutting edge NFL knowledge, regular opinion pieces and American football news.

In addition, punters can find informative NFL betting guides with helpful hints to betting on American football.

With a wide range of odds available, punters can find tips from our team of NFL betting experts over the course of the campaign.

Which team is heading the Super Bowl betting tips ahead of the upcoming season? Who will be named NFL Most Valuable Player this year? Who will be the first head coach to lose their job?

These are just three of the many questions NFL fans will have going into the season – best of luck with your NFL betting tips this year!

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*Credit for the photos in this article belongs to Alamy*