The British Grand Prix has been a staple in the Formula One World Championship calendar since its inception, so much so that it’s part of the heritage of the sport. The British Grand Prix and the Silverstone Circuit have become synonymous, but now the historical track is set to not only pull out of the F1 schedule but also take the event of the British Grand Prix with it.

On July 11, 2017, Silverstone announced that they triggered the break clause in their contract with Formula One, confirming that they will split from the sport in two years' time. This sets the 2019 British Grand Prix at Silverstone as the last British Grand Prix unless either a new agreement or a new host can be established.

So, has Silverstone decided to pull out of its agreement with F1, and will the British Grand Prix continue past 2019?

Silverstone haemorrhaging money on F1 events

The British Racing Drivers’ Club, who own Silverstone racing circuit, has continued to state that they love the sport and wish to keep the British Grand Prix alive at Silverstone, but that the current agreement was no longer financially viable.

Knowing full well what triggering the break clause meant, chairman of the BRDC John Grant stated: “Unless a new contractual arrangement can be reached with Liberty Media, 2019 will be the last year that the British Grand Prix takes place at Silverstone – the only viable venue for a British GP,” per the Silverstone official site.

When they initially signed the deal with Formula One in 2009, the contract detailed a Promoter’s Fee that increased by five percent with each passing year. So, from an initial 2010 fee of £11.5 million, Silverstone found themselves forking out £16.2 million in 2017, and they would have seen a cool £25 million paid for the Promoter’s Fee is they had seen out the contract to 2026.

Unfortunately, it came to be that the British Grand Prix – the UK’s most popular weekend sporting event – couldn’t amass the net ticket and hospitality sales revenue to cover the Grand Prix’s share of the circuit’s overhead costs.

Deemed unsustainable, the British Grand Prix sustained a combined net loss of £7.6 million over 2015 and 2016 - £2.8 million in 2015, £4.8 million in 2016 – with those losses expected to continue for the remainder of the deal.

As tough as it is to say, it was wise of the British Racing Drivers’ Club to pull Silverstone out of the Formula One agreement as the increased costs from the being in the deal would have continued to incur losses on events. Silverstone needs protecting, and that’s what the BRDC have done. Having said that, the withdrawal of Silverstone potentially means the withdrawal of the British Grand Prix altogether.

Other viable British Grand Prix venues

Since its inaugural season in 1950, only two race circuits have played host to the Formula One World Championship: Aintree and Brand Hatch.

From 1955 to 1960, Aintree and Silverstone alternated the British Grand Prix, and then Aintree got to keep it for two consecutive years in 1961 and 1962. Then the race moved back to Silverstone, who alternated years with Brands Hatch from 1963 to 1986. From 1987 and for the last 30 years, Silverstone has been the sole host of the British Grand Prix.

The reason behind people seeing Silverstone pulling out at the end of the British Grand Prix is because the race circuit is the only Grade 1 track in the UK – a license which is required from the FIA to host an F1 event.

Aintree, famous for hosting the Grand National, is a classy venue and caters for the biggest horse racing event in the world every year – so they know how to handle the mega crowds. In an easy to access area of the country littered with hotels, public transport, and an international airport very close by, it seems like the perfect venue.

However, it’s not the track of old and would need significant construction to get up to a Grade 1 standard and become an F1 host once again, so it seems financially unfeasible at this stage.

Brands Hatch faces a slew of other restrictions that would hinder both the Formula One event and the racing circuit for the rest of the year. For a start, the venue is only allowed six days of ‘noisy cars’ per year. Also, engines cannot run until 9:15 am on a Sunday, and races cannot begin until 10 am.

These restrictions would bring some limitations to the F1 event but would limit the number of events that Brands Hatch could host outside of Formula One due to the sport needing three days per event – Practice 1 & 2, Practice 3 & Qualifying, Grand Prix.

To add to this, Brands Hatch is not great when it comes to accessibility and would require substantial work to not only make it race ready – with only one viable overtaking area on the course right now – but also to bring it up to Grade 1.

So, where does that leave us? Well, there are some other more commonly discussed venues in the picture.

The Donington dilemma

A big name track often cited in this conversation is Donington Park. Donington hosted the 1993 European Grand Prix and was all set to have the British Grand Prix from 2010 to 2027, having signed an agreement with former owner F1 owner Bernie Ecclestone.

However, that fell through when finances couldn’t be raised to get the track up to standard. The failed attempts to get the venue ready put Donington on its knees and into administration.

But now, Donington Park is up and running again, but the circuit managing director Christopher Tate has already made clear what they think to getting the British Grand Prix, stating: "Absolutely not. We've set a very clear target of keeping the trace of the circuit as it is… we'd have to completely change Donington Park."

In fairness, it has taken a lot for the new owners to get Donington back up and running again after their former Formula One deal almost forced the end of Donington Park altogether.

Any other options?

There really aren’t any other viable options right now. While it is a very nice racetrack, Rockingham’s American-themed track would require a lot of work to make it race appropriate as well as fan appropriate to bring it up to Grade 1.

Then there’s the Circuit of Wales which could be a serious contender, but the Ebbw Vale based track is struggling financially due to not receiving government backing.

They were reportedly seeking funding from the £1.2 billion Cardiff Capital Region deal at the end of September 2017, but nothing has materialised as of yet. The controversial race circuit does not look to be a venue to hang British Grand Prix hopes on right now.

Silverstone or nothing

The British Grand Prix is a historical event, one which has produced great races and legendary champions over the years. Take this year, for example, Lewis Hamilton won his fourth-consecutive British Grand Prix to join the likes of Alain Prost and Jim Clark on five BGP wins, and recently claimed his fourth Drivers’ World Championship.

Formula One has just under two years to try and get a deal done with the BRDC if they wish to keep the historic British Grand Prix on their calendar because, quite simply, no other race circuit in the UK is up to scratch for the lofty Grade 1 standards.

There is always the chance that Silverstone and the new owners of F1, Liberty Media, strike-up a new, financially viable deal which would enable the event to continue beyond 2019.

Unfortunately, without serious investment elsewhere in the UK or a brand new deal for Silverstone, the 2019 Formula One World Championship is set to see the last British Grand Prix – for the time being at least.

Can anyone stop Manchester City this season? Pep Guardiola’s Blues juggernaut continued their winning run with a last gasp winner against Southampton on Wednesday evening and City are still eight points clear of arch rivals Manchester United.

Saints were gallant in defeat and will be quietly confident ahead of a trip to Bournemouth in the first of two HUGE games in England’s top flight.

For David Moyes, this is as difficult as it gets. After conceding three goals away at Everton on Wednesday night, it can’t get much worse for West Ham but Moyes will be wary of a heavy defeat at the Etihad Stadium.

The Hammers will need everything to go to plan in order to keep this one close. Check out our top tips and betting advice ahead of Sunday’s double header...

BOURNEMOUTH vs SOUTHAMPTON

A difficult one to call. Bournemouth, plagued by inconsistency for most of the season, have shown signs of building momentum in recent weeks but Eddie Howe’s men are still looking nervously over their shoulders at the relegation battle below.

With just four wins in 13 top flight games this campaign, the Cherries sit just four points above West Ham – that kind of form cannot continue into 2018.

Southampton have struggled as well, particularly in front of goal. The visitors have netted in each of their last two Premier League matches though and that is a sign that the tide at St Mary’s Stadium has started to turn after a slow start to the season.

Over 1.5 away goals is available at 13/8 here and that is an excellent price considering Bournemouth’s woes. It could be an entertaining, expansive encounter on the south coast.

I’ve gone with Southampton here. Mauricio Pellegrino’s men were seconds away from an extraordinary point away at Manchester City on Wednesday and Saints should take plenty of positives from that fixture.

Southampton’s latest victory, a 4-1 thrashing of Everton, saw a BTTS + win go in their favour and 9/2 is a respectable price for a repeat this weekend.

TIP: Southampton to win and both teams to score @ 9/2

MANCHESTER CITY vs WEST HAM UNITED

How many City goals are we expecting then? Over 3.5 goals is available at 23/20 but that is far too short. West Ham may tire in the second half due to the relentless pressure and over 2.5 second half goals is currently valued at 7/5.

It might be worth considering this particular market – City have been scoring the bulk of their recent goals in the second half.

Finding a suitable tip in West Ham’s favour isn’t easy at the present moment. Here, there is some value in backing no goal in the opening 15 minutes at 8/13.

City have kept the winning run going but Pep’s men haven’t been blowing teams apart in recent weeks. West Ham may capitulate later on in the contest but 8/13 is a solid price for a stalemate at the 15 minute mark.

City have won their last four fixtures against West Ham by a combined score of 15-1 and it is hard to back against the Blues on current form. The Etihad faithful will be expecting a cricket score this weekend and neutrals should sit back, relax and watch a masterclass.

Sometimes you have to hold your hands up and admit that the better team won, Moyes’ men may have to do that on Sunday afternoon.

TIP: Manchester City to win to nil @ 10/13

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

It may have changed its name after 60 years but the Ladbrokes Gold Trophy is still a competitive race as ever with 21 runners attempting to the land the specially-commissioned new trophy on Saturday afternoon.

Run over 3m 2 1/2f, the former Hennessy Gold Cup sees many of the UK and Ireland’s top staying chasers pit their wits against other handicappers of varying ability.

Here is a runner-by-runner guide to Newbury’s feature race:

Coneygree

2015 Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Coneygree is bidding to become the third horse this century to defy top-weight, following on from Trabolgan (2005) and Denman (2007 & 2009).

Whisper

Whisper was second to stablemate Might Bite in the G1 RSA Chase in March and steps back into handicap company for the first time since 2014. Nicky Henderson has won this race three times since 2005.

American

Harry Fry's American is an interesting runner after winning all his three starts over fences last season. He’s lightly raced and his trainer has had this race earmarked for him for quite some time.

Carole’s Destrier

Carole's Destrier was a valiant half-length runner-up to Native River in last year's renewal of the race. He always tends to run a good race first time out and will be a decent each-way price.

Label Des Obeaux

He was second to American in novice company a year ago and won a decent handicap at Ayr back in the spring, just getting the nod over Calett Mad. He looks more of a spring horse in fairness to him.

A Genie In Abottle

This progressive six-year-old was a talented novice last season and ended the campaign with a good third behind stablemate Disko at Punchestown. He comes into the race on the back of wins at Galway and Wexford in October.

Regal Encore

He came eighth in the Grand National in April and that will most probably be his target again this season. He would be a surprise winner of this given his recent form.

Royal Vacation

The seven-year-old made his seasonal debut at Wetherby when third to Guitar Pete and represents last year’s winning trainer. Last season he won the G1 Kauto Star Novices' Chase at Kempton Park.

Paddy Brennan gets the leg up on this Mrs Bishop owned horse and Brennan could well be out to prove a point on Saturday.

Pleasant Company

Winner of the G3 Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse in February. The last Irish-trained winner of the former Hennessy Gold Cup was Bright Highway in 1980 and Willie Mullins will be hoping to break this hoodoo.

Total Recall

Total Recall made the perfect start for his new trainer Willie Mullins when defeating Alpha Des Obeaux by seven lengths in the Munster National on October 8^th.

He has been the ante-post favourite for this contest for some time but Mullins’ record in UK handicaps is woeful which is a major worry for any backer of the favourite.

Singlefarmpayment

Singlefarmpayment did well last term over fences, scoring at Cheltenham in December and only going down by the narrowest of margins to Un Temps Pour Tout in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Festival in March.

He returned to Cheltenham last month for his seasonal reappearance, running a valiant race behind Cogry. He has to prove he can show the same level of form away from Prestbury Park...

Double Ross

Now an eleven-year-old, Double Ross was third in this race last year off a 2lb higher mark. Given that his trainer has been taking all the big handicap chases this month it is hard to strike him out of your calculations. You may be handsomely rewarded by this veteran chaser.

Present Man

The Badger Ales Trophy Handicap Chase winner Present Man is again the mount of the in-form Bryony Frost and the horse may have not stopped improving.

Present Man, who is unbeaten in two runs under Frost, carries a 4lb penalty for his latest win which will be cancelled out by Frost's claiming allowance.

Missed Approach

Warren Greatrex's gelding finished ahead of A Genie In Abottle when second in the NH Chase over four miles at Cheltenham last March.

His form has been patchy since (pulled up at Wetherby last time) but is the type to bounce right back at a price.

Bigbadjohn

Rebecca Curtis and Jonathan Moore teamed up to win the G2 Reynoldstown Novices' Chase with Bigbadjohn back in February and it will now be the turn of Adam Wedge to try and put some spark back into Curtis’ season.

Trainer form is a worry but nobody expected Irish Cavalier to win the Charlie Hall last year did they?

Vyta Du Roc

Vyta Du Roc had a blow out over hurdles at Aintree in preparation for this race and comes into the race on a handy low weight.

Owners Simon Munir and Isaac Suede had winners galore in the UK and France last weekend and this could well be another big prize pot they scoop up.

Braqueur D'or

Hails from the all powerful Paul Nicholls stable but there is a suspicion that that the six-year-old is pretty much a summer jumper and will not be at home on Saturday’s predicted going.

Cogry

Nigel Twiston-Davies is optimistic that he can complete a big-race treble on consecutive Saturdays with Cogry and has been very bullish about the eight-year-old’s chances.

He got a positive ride at Cheltenham last time out and will undoubtedly get another at Newbury.

Potters Legend

Ran fourth in last season’s Kim Muir and looks the type of horse who will work himself into the race late doors when plenty of the others will be backpedalling.

Brian Hughes, who is firing in the winners left, right and centre, gets the call.

Southfield Royale

He was well fancied for the Badger Ales but was pulled up in that race and is struggling to produce anything like his 2014/15 exploits.

Pretty difficult to make a case for him other than that he runs off bottom weight.

Pilgrims Bay

He won the Betbright Chase in February under a brilliantly timed run and looks to have the better credentials of the Mulholland trained pair to win this.

The Wincanton going will not have suited him last time but Newbury’s predicted going looks like being more his scene.

Summary

Vyta Du Roc looks to have been plotted for this race as does Harry Fry’s American. I expect both of them to be there in the final stages but at an each-way price I’m going to take Lucy Wadham’s Potters Legend.

This horse will be suited by Newbury’s stamina test and Brian Hughes will ride a canny waiting race on him, producing him late in the day.

In a distinguished twenty year career, Dion Dublin played for nine different clubs, scored 183 goals, and invented a musical instrument called ‘The Dube’. In 1998 the widely respected and universally liked striker won the Premier League’s Golden Boot award, an achievement that led to four England caps, while in his twilight years he proven himself to be equally adept as a formidable centre-back.

Now a popular television presenter and pundit, here the Leicester-born gent looks back on an outstanding contribution to top-class football, assessing his former club Aston Villa as they seek promotion; explaining how his broken leg at Manchester United led to the signing of a certain French poet; recalling a partnership at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena that struck fear into every back-line; and revealing why Cambridge’s opponents in the nineties would always decline the offer of a pre-match brew.

Villa are in safe hands

We begin at Villa Park where Dublin enjoyed five successful years in a flamboyantly gifted team, that regularly inhabited the higher echelons of the top flight. With the present-day Villa competing in the Championship, any comparisons between the two understandably get short shrift.

“At Villa I played with some of the best players in the world. We had a great side. This side now doesn’t compare to ours. Nowhere near. Whether that comes across as rude or arrogant, I don’t know.”

It does not, and especially when the former striker runs through an illustrious roll-call of his former team-mates. When pressed to name the best of them however Dublin is spoilt for choice.

“That’s a hard, unfair question! I’m going to put it into categories. Paul Merson is the best one-footed player ever. His left foot was rubbish but he didn’t need it because he had the outside of his right foot. With his vision too, nobody could make a pass with the outside of his boot like Paul Merson. As for David Ginola I still don’t know if he was right footed or left footed. As regards captains, Gareth Southgate was incredible and his partnership with Ugo Ehiogu was one of the strongest I’ve played I front of. It was a very strong squad of players with in fact loads of captains – you didn’t need an armband at Villa - and I was very fortunate to play with them.”

A succession of sixth place finishes and some deep runs in domestic cups was the sum total of Villa’s achievements during a heady era. Though impressive, it’s hard not to shake the feeling that this enthralling team could have reached even higher heights, with a FA Cup Final in 2000 loss particularly notable. Does Dublin find any solace in participating in the last ever final at the old Wembley?

“No solace. We were crap and I’ve no idea why we were crap. We were possibly overly wound up by getting into a final, thinking we had to win. Maybe it was a lack of quality on the day? I’m going to speak for Chelsea and say they were rubbish as well. The final in general was so poor from two professional football teams to sign off from this wonderful stadium. On the other hand I can say I played in the last final.”

As for the present, Villa’s fortunes are on the up with serious investment made over the summer, and a promotion charge that currently sees the Midlands giants lying in fourth. Dublin insists their short-term future is in safe hands with an ex-team mate.

“With Steve Bruce at the helm, they have got every chance of being successful. He’s a great manager, great person, and he was a great centre-half as well. I believe that Steve Bruce is the right man to take Villa forward and I believe he has the backing of the board. If the players do exactly what Brucey says, they will be successful.”

I was the catalyst for Manchester United’s glory years

With over 150 appearances for Cambridge under his belt, a 23 year old Dion Dublin made the huge leap to Old Trafford in 1992 and understandably – given the multitude of striking options available – found first team opportunities to be at a premium. Just three months in his chances weren’t exactly helped by a long-term injury endured against Crystal Palace and it was an injury that was to have defining consequences for the Red Devils, as Dublin retells, laughing easily throughout.

“When I broke my leg Man United had to find somebody of a very, very high standard to take my place so they turned to Eric Cantona! He didn’t just fill my boots; he took it to the next level and he was brilliant. I do consider myself the catalyst to Man United’s success because if it wasn’t for me they wouldn’t have signed Eric Cantona. They don’t have to thank me though, it’s fine.”

“Eric was very unique in the way that he played the game. I think he saw the game differently to most people. He was fearless towards any other human being and he was fearless towards failure, so he tried all sorts. He was outstanding.”

During his three years at Old Trafford the targetman won the Premier League title and saw his reputation greatly enhanced. His tenure there also afforded him a front row seat to witness the emerging phenomenon later coined the ‘Class of 92’.

“They all had their tick-box list and they all did exactly what they were supposed to do. They didn’t complicate things which is one of the clever things about the Class of 92. Gary Neville defended very, very well. He was vocal and confident. David Beckham…I’ve never known anyone to strike a ball like he did. He put it where you said. As for Giggsy he was one of the quickest I’ve ever seen whilst running with the ball and keeping it under control then having an end product. As for Scholesy, well, his nickname is Satnav because he always knows where everybody is.”

Check out our odds for Arsenal - Manchester United clash this weekend

A partnership made in sky blue heaven

On leaving United Dublin joined Coventry City and flourished into the proven goal-scorer everybody remembers today. While at the Ricoh Arena he also developed a striking partnership with Darren Huckerby that arguably remains one of the most fruitful in Premier League history. What were the key elements to the chemistry between the pair?

“It was the obvious things. There was a big man who was incredibly slow and a little man who was incredibly quick. There was a good understanding and me and Hucks are still very, very close now. We speak weekly which is very rare in in football to speak to ex-team mates on a weekly basis.”

The mutual admiration is not only obvious but genuinely heart-warming.

“Put it this way, Huck’s opinion of me is this – He was asked years ago who would be his ideal strike partner if he could choose anyone in the world. He said if Dion Dublin was injured and couldn’t play then he’d choose Gabriel Batistuta. That’s the way Darren Huckerby respects me and I respect him back. I believe that he got me my England call-up. If I wasn’t playing with Darren Huckerby then I don’t think I would have played for England while at Coventry City. Our bond on the pitch was strong and our bond off it is exactly the same.”

Canaries deserve to fly high again

At the ripe old age of 37, the now veteran forward joined Norwich City, the club where it all began for Dublin as a sixteen year old trainee. The circle was complete.

Currently vying with Villa for a play-off spot, or even promotion, the Canaries are singing right now, largely due to the scintillating form of their young midfielder James Maddison. Persistent transfer rumours, however, refuse to go away for the future superstar.

“At the moment Mads is absolutely flying and there will be offers. Norwich have to do the right thing for Norwich football club. It’s not about the money, it’s about moving forward and getting back into the Premier League. Is it best to get rid of him for decent money or think ‘hold on a minute, we need more James Maddisons in our squad’ and build the team around him? Because if you’ve got James Maddison he will attract others of that quality.”

As for Norwich’s dream of returning to the top flight their former centre-forward-turned-centre-half believes it might ultimately come down to belief and fortitude.

“The problem is that Norwich City are a Premier League team but there are twenty other clubs in the Championship who can say the same thing. It’s all about taking your turn and finding the right time to make it to the Premier League. I believe Norwich will be fighting this year in the play-offs and then it’s about whether you’ve got to bottle to take it further.”

As you would expect from such an eminently likable guy Dublin speaks highly of all his former clubs. Yet when the East-Anglian side crops up in conversation it is noticeable that his smile widens into a content grin.

“I absolutely loved it at Norwich. On my very first day of training there was a massive scrap between two players and I was gutted because I was clean through on goal and about to score my first goal. Instead everybody stopped and watched. Two players got sent home and I was thinking ‘what have I signed for here?’ Meanwhile there was lots of speculation from the fans saying ‘what have we signed him for? He’s 37 years old. He’s had his day’.”

“But lo and behold the squad that we had was very tight. People like Dickson Etuhu, Robert Earnshaw, Youssef Safri: everyone was so tight and we had one of Norwich’s strongest squads ever. We played some good football and I made some good friends and even got to score some decent goals. I played centre-half, centre-forward, and even at 37 I was doing what I was told. I just loved the football club. I felt relaxed there, I felt comfortable there; it felt like home.”

Cambridge was horrible

We finish where it all began, for a forward whose currency was goals across three different divisions – four if you include the SPL and Celtic.

The stories that surround the early nineties Cambridge United of direct football, promotions and John Beck scowling from the dug-out are legend in the game. Now is as good a time as any to determine how much is embellishment after the fact. Dublin laughs once again and is more than happy to set the record straight.

“Every single thing you’ve heard from that time was true. We were a horrible team to play against. Playing at the Abbey Stadium was so uncomfortable for other teams. We used to put loads of sugar in the tea and give them no hot water at all. We put the warm-up balls in the bath so they would be soaking wet. This all got around the other clubs so it was very much a case of ‘Oh no, it’s Cambridge United this weekend’. They didn’t like us because we were horrible.”

Premier League News, betting tips and fresh odds on our 888 Sport blog!

After 60 years memorable years the Hennessy Gold Cup has now become the less memorable named Ladbrokes Trophy. This iconic race is the highlight of the second day of the Ladbrokes Winter Carnival which starts this Friday.

In its previous incarnation as the Hennessy Gold Cup, racing legends such as Arkle, Mill House, Burrough Hill Lad and more recently Denman all wrote their legacies at Newbury in November.

2016 saw a big-race treble for the Colin Tizzard stable with Native River, Thistlecrack and Ultragold all landing the spoils on a remarkable afternoon.

Let’s take a look through at some of the market principles:

Total Recall (current odds 6/1)

Ruby Walsh is convinced that Total Recall has the ideal weight to make his presence felt in the Ladbrokes Trophy next Saturday.

The eight-year-old joined the Willie Mullins yard from that of Sandra Hughes over the summer and he immediately made a big impressive when landing last month's Munster National at Limerick.

The sidelined jockey said: "He got a hefty penalty for it (winning at Limerick) but Alpha Des Obeaux backed it up at Clonmel.

"A lot depends on what's going to be top, I suppose if Coneygree runs and Total Recall is to stay on 10-8 that gives him a really good chance.

"He's not the biggest horse in the world and that would be a great weight for him to carry. If the top horses start falling away and the weights creep up, then the penalty would have a bigger impact then but to go around with 10-8 on his back would give him a huge chance."

American (current odds 7/1)

The seven-year-old won all of his three starts over fences last season and rounded off his campaign with a dominant display at Uttoxeter in March.

With the gelding having a well-publicised preference for soft ground, Harry Fry is more than pleased that rain is forecast for the weekend.

Fry added: "If the forecast is correct, there's plenty of rain coming at the end of the week and at this time of year it doesn't dry up too much. With a bit of rain forecast, it should keep it on the slow side.

"I've put him in the Welsh National, only really as a back-up. He's a horse that doesn't run too regularly and he has got that entry (at Chepstow), but it's all about a week on Saturday.

"It's a huge race in its own right and I would not swap him for anything in the race, and neither would Noel (Fehily).”

Singlefarmpayment (current odds 8/1)

Singlefarmpayment did well last term over fences, scoring at Cheltenham in December and only going down by the narrowest of margins to Un Temps Pour Tout in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Festival in March.

He returned to Cheltenham last month for his seasonal reappearance, running a valiant race behind Cogry.

Trainer Tom George said: "Singlefarmpayment is on course for the Ladbrokes Trophy. He has come out of his first run of the season at Cheltenham in good form.

"We needed to get that run into him as he is an excitable horse. Giving him that outing at Cheltenham has helped to just take the edge off of him before we go to Newbury."

Whisper (current odds 10/1)

Whisper, who got the better of a match-race with Clan Des Obeaux last time out is one of four possible runners in the race for Nicky Henderson, the other significant one being Vyta Du Roc.

Whisper's jumping will need to be much sharper though if he is to win a prestigious race like the Ladbrokes Trophy, but jockey Davy Russell believes a stronger pace will suit the Dai Walters owned nine-year-old. He finished second to Might Bite on more than one occasion last season but could be primed for a major success here.

Henderson revealed: "Davy says he wants to be going as quick as you can go, in which case he can fire him into the fences. He was leaving his hind legs behind a little bit, but only because they were going steady."

Coneygree (current odds 16/1)

Coneygree will have to carry top weight on Saturday and the last horse to defy 11st 12lb was Denman ten years ago.

Sarah Bradstock, wife and assistant of trainer Mark, was pleased with Coneygree’s recent Newbury workout but admitted that the lack of a full race was a slight concern for the stable’s fragile star, who aims to become the ninth Gold Cup winner to win the Newbury showpiece.

Listen to an interview with Sarah Bradstock here: https://soundcloud.com/sportinglife/coneygree-sara-bradstock

Royal Vacation (current odds 20/1)

Before the start of the season Colin Tizzard said of Royal Vacation: “He was lucky to get his Grade One and we were delighted he was going to finish second behind Might Bite as it was a decent race. He suffered badly last year with sore shins. When we put the tongue tie on it meant he had a small wind problem. We sorted his shins and cauterized his palate. He is likely to have one run then will go for the Ladbrokes Trophy."

Royal Vacation had his opening run at Wetherby where he ran a creditable third behind Guitar Pete. He should be primed and ready for the job ahead this week based on that.

A Genie In Abottle (current odds 20/1)

Noel Meade’s six-year-old, who is owned by Gigginstown House Stud, ended last season with a good third behind stablemate Disko in a Grade One race at the Punchestown Festival.

A Genie In Abottle is two from two this season, most recently defeating Tiger Roll by a length-and-a-half in a Listed contest over three miles at Wexford on October 30^th.

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

It will come as no surprise to see Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the head of the betting for the Men’s Australian Open. Two icons of the sport dominated in 2017, and are understandably expected to remain at the very top in 2018.

Nadal claimed the US Open to go with yet another title at Roland Garros, while Federer won in Australia and at Wimbledon. Few would have predicted quite such an emphatic return to Slam-winning for the duo.

It is of no surprise that they sit far clear of the chasing pack at the top of the ATP rankings after this season, though and the Spaniard is currently favourite to win at 5/2 in our tennis betting markets.

His hard court form stateside a few weeks ago was stunning, and fitness seems to be the only thing that can stop the Spaniard at the moment. He was involved in a five-set classic with Federer in the final at the Australian last year, too.

His record in the first Grand Slam of the calendar year is far worse than anywhere else, however, having won only once, back in 2009.

via GIPHY

If Federer can replicate anything like his best from this year, he has to be the pick to win the tournament. The 36-year-old has only failed to make the semis in Australia once since 2003. I am not going to bore you with reams of text about how brilliant Federer is, but that record – and his three victories – speak for itself.

The holder of a plethora of all-time records sits at 3/1 to win his 20^th Grand Slam. Federer has lost only four matches in 2017, and his only Slam defeat came to Juan Martin del Potro at the US Open. The prices may well fluctuate before the 2018 season gets underway, but Federer at 3/1 is great value.

His fitness has been managed superbly, and – with no signs of physical decline – is incredibly tough to look past on a hard court. Third in the market is unsurprisingly Novak Djokovic. Having been out with injury for all of 2017 with an elbow problem, his 5/1 is certainly on the short side.

Djokovic’s preparations for the Australian Open are as yet unknown and, though he has won five titles in the year-opening Slam, his chances must be slim. A lot will depend on how he fares in his warm-up events, but it’s worth staying well away from backing the Serbian while there is so much uncertainty.

Andy Murray is next up at 7/1 behind Djokovic. The Scot recently revealed that he has returned to the court, and could play again before the season is out. Like Djokovic, Murray was expected to be out for the year after his own Wimbledon disappointment.

At a slightly longer price, Murray could be worth backing if he can get some injury-free matches in before we wave the 2017 season a nostalgic goodbye.

Outside of the so-called ‘big four’, the usual suspects offer a bit of wildcard value. Stan Wawrinka has been the best of the rest for quite some time, but 2017 has been damaged by fitness issues for him, too.

Juan Martin Del Potro is no doubt one of the most talented players in this generation. He has Slam winning experience, and showed signs of his best game at the US Open. Out at 25/1, the Argentine is, as he often is, a decent longshot option.

It’s no secret that del Potro can go toe-to-toe with Nadal and Federer, and that 25/1 will look like a great price if he can stay fully fit in the lead up to the tournament.

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*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Latest markets for the 2018 Australian Open are available here...

 

 

It is without even a tremor of shock that we can say that Serena Williams is the 4/1 favourite to win the Australian Open in 2018. Serena, of course, won there in 2017. It was her seventh title in the season-opening Grand Slam, and few would bet against her doing it for an eighth time.

Steffi Graf thinks the American can break the Grand Slam tennis betting record. She might not have competed since this tournament last year, but Williams is aiming to return in time for the Melbourne showpiece. Her greatness makes her one of the most iconic sports people in history, and winning another title after missing so much time due to the birth of her child would be just another chapter.

Her longevity and sheer dominance of the sport is remarkable. A fitness blip might be all that can stop her, but there is a very well-balanced women’s field ready to capitalise on any flickering of Serena weakness.

Three of the main contenders sit at 13/2. Gabrine Muguruza – the 2017 Wimbledon champion, Simona Halep, and Karolina Pliskova are yet to win the Australian Open. Muguruza and Pliskova made the quarter-finals last year, but their careers are only on the up. Halep is the current world number one, Muguruza is at two and Pliskova comes in at four.

Muguruza has struggled at times on the hard courts. Her run in Melbourne last year is the best of her career, but her Wimbledon victory will have provided potentially crucial second week experience. The Spaniard can be as good as unplayable on her day. Her consistency, however, is a real issue and makes the 13/2 price seem on the short side.

World number one Halep favours the clay courts, too. Her two Grand Slam final appearances have come at Roland Garros, and she has not got past the first round of the Australian Open since 2015. She has been a force on the circuit this year, but backing Halep to win in Melbourne is a bit of a leap and, just like Muguruza, not great value at that price.

Of the 13/2 trio, Pliskova is the one whose price stands out to me. She has enjoyed a breakout year of sorts at the Grand Slams, and has the powerful serving game to make light work of the early rounds.

The odds then lengthen quite dramatically to 11/1. Johanna Konta and Petra Kvitova are at that price, with Konta having enjoyed by far the best year of her career in 2017.

A trip to the semis in 2016 means the Brit has good memories of the Grand Slam curtain-raiser, and her lethal serve makes her a dangerous hard-court player. Her ranking has slipped in the latter weeks of the 2018 season, but Konta’s game makes her a threat to anyone in the draw.

Kvitova is a two-time Wimbledon champion. Her Grand Slam career away from the grass has been a struggle, though, with her 2017 quarter-final appearance at the US Open the first time she has made it to the last eight since 2015. Her 11/1 reflects the player that she can be, and signs are that she can return to that after the horrific knife attack she suffered earlier this year.

Either of the 11/1 pair are worth backing. Their prices look on the long side, making them the two best value picks from this market at this stage.

If it’s an even longer shot that would take your fancy, I’d suggest backing Caroline Wozniacki at 20/1, who has resembled something near her best at times this year and was victorious in the WTA Finals. The two US Open finalists, Madison Keys and Sloane Stephens, are a tempting 33/1 option, too.

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*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Latest markets for the 2018 Australian Open are available here...

 

 

We’re now approaching the midpoint of the 2017/18 Premier League season and there have been a few surprises along the way. Marco Silva’s Watford are flying high and could be set for a top half finish this campaign whilst West Ham United and Everton have both failed to inspire confidence; opting to part ways with Slaven Bilic and Ronald Koeman respectively.

But enough about the past – let’s focus on the present. Tuesday evening sees four huge top flight encounters, starting with Brighton’s clash with Crystal Palace at the Amex Stadium and ending with Newcastle United’s trip to West Bromwich Albion. Check out my top tips ahead of Tuesday’s football below...

Brighton & Hove Albion vs Crystal Palace

The Seagulls are a force to be reckoned with at the Amex Stadium. Brighton are unbeaten in five Premier League matches on home soil and I fancy Chris Hughton’s men to extend that run here. Goals have been hard to come by away from home but Brighton have scored in all but one of their Amex encounters this campaign and a tight victory looks likely.

Crystal Palace are in real trouble. The Eagles are rooted to the bottom of the table despite winning against Stoke City last time out. Roy Hodgson knows that keeping Palace in the top flight is going to be very difficult – and picking up a positive result here is vital. Winning at Brighton may be a step too far at this moment in time though... 

TIP: Brighton to win @ 33/20

Leicester City vs Tottenham Hotspur

Under 2.5 goals has landed in three of the last four head-to-head’s but that could change on Tuesday evening. Claude Puel’s Leicester are heading in the right direction and Foxes fans will be quietly confident ahead of Tottenham’s visit. Spurs ran out 6-1 winners in this fixture back in May so the hosts will be determined to get revenge.

Tottenham are still in the mix for the title although the 1-1 draw against manager-less West Bromwich Albion at the weekend has done Mauricio Pochettino’s men no favours. Expect a much improved performance from Spurs here and a high-scoring, entertaining encounter may be on the cards if both sides bring their A-game...

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/6

Watford vs Manchester United

Watford have been one of the Premier League’s surprise packages this term. Marco Silva has done a fantastic job at Vicarage Road in recent months and the Hornets are in a solid position. Another positive performance against one of England’s elite clubs looks likely and another win will cement Watford’s position in the top half.

Jose Mourinho’s men needed an own goal to squeeze past Brighton on Saturday – the Red Devils were uninspiring at best on that day. With a gap of eight points to Manchester City, United need to put a run of form together in order to keep the pressure on. Unfortunately for the visitors, Watford may be a tough nut to crack...

TIP: Watford to win OR draw @ 5/4

West Bromwich Albion vs Newcastle United

Caretaker boss Gary Megson did an excellent job to prepare West Brom for their clash with Tottenham, securing a point in what was a tough afternoon for the Baggies. West Brom are still searching for a permanent replacement and victory over Newcastle would only strengthen Megson’s position. Albion could snatch this one but under 2.5 goals is the best bet.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are in disarray after a decent start to the season. The Magpies have now lost four Premier League games on the spin and Rafa Benitez needs to stop the rot. This latest miserable run may serve as a timely reminder to owner Mike Ashley that, despite his intent to sell up, he must invest in January. This has all the makings of a dull affair...

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/15

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Only eight teams have successfully lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy since the inaugural World Cup took place in 1930. Five of those winners have been European whilst the remaining three hailed from South America.

Brazil are the most decorated side, clinching five titles, but they haven't been victorious since the 2002 staging of the event whilst Germany are the current holders following their success in 2014. We take a look at which of these triumphant teams would prevail if each of these teams were to face one another in a winner's winner tournament.

Brazil (2002)

The Selecao's first success arrived in 1958 and more domination soon followed. They also lifted the trophy in 1962, 1970, 1994 and most recently in 2002.

In the process of Brazil wrapping up their fifth World Cup title, Ronaldo proved unplayable, notching eight goals throughout the tournament and taking the Golden Boot in the process. They hit 11 goals throughout the group stage, finishing with maximum points at the summit of Group C.

Rivaldo and Ronaldinho both played a huge part in helping Brazil reach their zenith with an impressive supporting cast of Cafu, Roberto Carlos and Denilson. A side filled with such attacking verve can often be susceptible at the back but Luiz Felipe Scolari managed to guide his side to three clean sheets from four in the knock-out stage.

Brazil would prove difficult to stop in the winner's winner tournament with very few sides likely to find a way to contain a confident Ronaldo whilst the Cafu/Roberto Carlos combination would provide endless ammunition.

Tite's side were the first team to officially qualify for the 2018 World Cup and have been playing with a confident swagger. They've been installed as 5/1 joint-favourites for the tournament with 888Sport.

Spain (2010)

Vincente Del Bosque led Spain to success in 2010 claiming their only title to date. A hugely talented squad featuring many Barcelona and Real Madrid players (two sides who had been dominating European football) lost their opening match to Switzerland but that defeat proved academic as they bounced back in perfect style.

Whilst the likes of David Villa and Fernando Torres provided plenty of firepower to the squad, they weren't renowned for high scoring games and only fired in eight goals during the tournament. Carlos Puyol led by example at the back with Spain keeping four successive clean sheets during the knock-out stage whilst Xavi, Andres Iniesta and David Silva provided style and flair in the middle of the park.

Whilst many football fans were left salivating at the Spanish possession-based football, they conspired to miss numerous chances and with a measly eight goals, they may struggle to go all the way in the winner's winner tournament.

They remain a hugely powerful force in world football and have been priced up as joint fourth favourites at 8/1 with 888Sport for World Cup 2018 following a fairly trouble-free qualification campaign.

England (1966)

England's one and only success in the tournament came in 1966 in their own backyard. Captained by the irrepressible Bobby Moore, England beat West Germany in controversial fashion. They needed extra time to secure the 4-2 victory but their third goal was deemed to have crossed the line by the officials despite mass protestations from the visiting side.

Further analysis has shown that the linesman made an incorrect decision and it remains one of the most talked-about incidents in the World Cup history. The Three Lions beat Mexico, France and Argentina en-route to the final although the latter were amongst the sides who had struggled to acclimatise to long-distance travel.

England were known as the 'wingless wonders' due to their narrow formation, which helped guide them to success and whilst this may have worked in 1966, we're not convinced it would pay dividends in the winner's winner tournament where they could be easily exploited. Coupled with the lack of home advantage, England would likely fall short in this competition.

The current England squad qualified for the World Cup 2018 with ease and have been priced up at 20/1 for victory in Russia with 888Sport.

Italy (1982)

Italy have been successful on four occasions, but it's the 1982 side that left the greatest impression on footballing history. They were a tough team to break down as well as showing plenty of skill and exuberance in the final third. Paolo Rossi plundered six goals as Italy gradually warmed into the tournament following a slow start.

They failed to win a single game during the group stage which almost saw Cameroon qualify at their expense. In the second round of the competition, they ratcheted up the style beating South American duo Argentina and Brazil before going on to power past Poland and West Germany to clinch the title.

Rossi netted both goals in the final at the Nou Camp and they could prove extremely hard to stop at the winner's winner tournament. Italy risk falling behind if they make a similarly slow start once again.

Unfortunately, Italy missed out on qualification for the 2018 World Cup after losing their two-legged playoff with Sweden in November.

Germany / West Germany (1990)

Joachim Low led his side to glory in 2014, which included his side hitting seven past a beleaguered Brazil side but the 1990 squad featuring Jurgen Klinsmann and Lothar Matthaus just edges them out. This was the third title for West Germany and despite the tournament being deemed "poor", Franz Beckenbauer's side provided plenty of quality and were deserving winners.

They stuck four and five past Yugoslavia and the UAE, respectively, before seeing off England and Netherlands prior to a 1-0 win against Argentina in the final. Three players were named in the end of tournament all-star team including defender Andreas Brehme who netted three times during the competition.

This side always found a way of winning, although they had plenty of flair in their ranks and would go deep into the World Cup winner's winner tournament. 

Germany are aiming to defend their title when the World Cup 2018 gets underway in Russia and are joint 5/1 favourites with 888Sport to make it successive triumphs.

France (1998)

France's success on their own patch was one of the least convincing successes in this tournament. Undoubtedly a fine side, they toiled in the knock-out stage and were helped by home advantage during the group stage.

Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Denmark were just about the easiest collection of teams they could have hoped for and they were hardly convincing against Paraguay just days later. They required extra time on that occasion and penalties to see off Italy before hammering Brazil in the final.

Lillian Thuram provided steel, whilst the likes of Emmanuel Petit and Patrick Vieira were undoubtedly world class. They hardly set the world alight during their success though and therefore can't be considered for glory in the winner's winner tournament.

The current France squad is once again jam-packed full of talent with the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Paul Pogba in their side and they are 11/2 with 888Sport for the World Cup 2018

Argentina (1986)

Two-time Champions Argentina deserve their position in World Cup history and their 1986 victory is their most memorable. Diego Maradona is synonymous with their success but they proved to be more than a one-man team at this tournament.

Implementing the sweeper system worked perfectly as they beat South Korea and Bulgaria during the group stage before easing past Uruguay, controversially beating England and seeing off Belgium and West Germany to clinch the silverware.

The inspirational 25-year-old Diego Maradona captained the side and proved the match winner on many occasions but he was complemented by Jorge Valdano and Jorge Burruchaga and they were a joy to watch. This side could go far in any tournament but they came up against plenty of substandard opposition along the way and may come unstuck in the latter stages of the winner's winner event.

Argentina initially struggled to qualify for World Cup 2018 but a Lionel Messi hat-trick saved them. They are joint fourth favourites with Spain at 8/1 with 888Sport for success this time around.

Uruguay (1950)

Uruguay have been successful in two World Cups with the 1950 success the most recent and notable of the pair. They beat Bolivia 8-0 in the early stages of the competition before triumphing over Sweden and Brazil in the final round of fixtures.

The talented Oscar Miguez netted five times whilst Alcides Ghiggia added a further four. The Penarol were all-conquering and were free-scoring and fearless in their approach to games. The fact that they beat Brazil in their own backyard and managed to silence to the Maracana gives them every chance in the winner's winner tournament.

Uruguay are a big price of 40/1 with 888Sport for success at World Cup 2018.

Conclusion

There have been some memorable teams over the years who have been victorious in this iconic competition. Whilst Argentina, France, Italy and England all deserve their place in footballing history, they are likely to fall behind the remainder of the pack here.

West Germany and Brazil would meet yet again for the final with the imperious Ronaldo netting the winner for his side to ensure they become the ultimate World Cup winners!

Final standings:

1. Brazil

2. Germany

3. Uruguay

4. Spain

5. Italy

6. Argentina

7. England

8. France

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

It has been one of those weeks - a joyous one for sports fans across the globe. We have had football every single night of the week, we have the first Ashes Test, we have autumn internationals this weekend, and the final Grand Prix for the Formula One season.

The cherry on top of that delightful gateaux is, of course, the Premier League this weekend. You can find plenty of other previews on our site, but here we are giving the 3pm kick-offs the once over.

CRYSTAL PALACE vs STOKE CITY

Performances have improved dramatically for Crystal Palace under Roy Hodgson. Results, though, have not been ideal.

Still only on five points, the Eagles are rooted to the bottom of the table. An eventful – and controversial – draw with Everton last weekend was handy, but Hodgson needs to start picking up wins if Palace are to have any chance of safety.

Stoke battled to a 2-2 draw of their own with Brighton on Monday night. An unbeaten run of three has helped to reduce some of the pressure on Mark Hughes, while giving the Potters a bit of breathing space.

Goals have been common in Stoke matches this season. There have been 39 in their 12 matches to date, in fact, including over 2.5 in eight of their last nine.

I can’t pick a winner here. Two flawed defences are likely to provide goals, though.

TIP: Over 2.5 goals @ 11/10

NEWCASTLE UNITED vs WATFORD

Newcastle have slipped into the beginnings of a rut. Three league defeats in a row have seen them score just the one goal, which came in a 4-1 defeat to Manchester United last weekend.

Rafa Benitez has everything under control, but the Magpies will be keen to stunt this slide in front of their home crowd.

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Watford ended their own losing streak last weekend with a win over West Ham. The club have rejected advances from Everton for Marco Silva, and are set for a solid top half finish this season. Currently sitting in eighth, the gap to seventh placed Burnley could close to one point this weekend.

This is a tricky match to predict. Watford have seen over 2.5 in their last four on the road, but there have been under 2.5 in Newcastle’s last four at St James’ Park. The Hornets’ defence should not be too troubled by a struggling Newcastle attack, though, and should just have enough to snatch a win.

TIP: Watford to win @ 12/5

SWANSEA CITY vs BOURNEMOUTH

Back-to-back wins have given a completely different feeling to Bournemouth’s campaign. What was a concerning few months is now a solid enough beginning, as they sit on 13 points from 12 Premier League matches. Plenty of punters will be backing the Cherries to win in 888sport's football betting odds this weekend...

Their hosts this weekend have not been in such form. Languishing in 18^th, the Swans have lost four in a row and this match has become as good as a must-win for Paul Clement.

The five points that separates the two teams seems like a vast chasm with Swansea’s form. Their dependence on Tammy Abraham in attack has been paired with defensive errors for a pointless cocktail. Abraham is a doubt this weekend, too.

With Callum Wilson coming off the back of a brilliant hat-trick last weekend, Bournemouth might just have hit their rhythm in the final third. It could be another painful afternoon for Swansea.

TIP: Bournemouth to win @ 17/10

Tottenham vs West Bromwich Albion

Tony Pulis’ departure was inevitable after defeat to Chelsea last weekend. West Brom will be hoping that can shock them out of this dire run that has seem them go winless since August.

Unfortunately, they face a Tottenham side who return to Wembley off the back of an impressive win at Borussia Dortmund. North London derby defeat will still sting, but the Lilywhites are hardly the perfect opponent for a struggling team.

Fatigue for the hosts is the Baggies’ best chance. Harry Kane looked leggy last weekend, but played again in midweek. Injuries have limited Mauricio Pochettino’s rotation options.

Despite the talk of Wembley woe, Spurs have a very solid home record, winning their last three under the arch. Anything else this weekend would be one of the shocks of the season.

TIP: Tottenham to win @ 6/25

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*