Cheltenham Festival Sees €500M Betting Surge Amid Bookies' Payout Fears

The Cheltenham Festival 2025 kicked off with a remarkable betting atmosphere, as a punter named Tom won over £55,000 after successfully backing six horses in a Placepot bet. Bookmakers, particularly PaddyPower, are bracing for substantial payouts, with a potential €95 million loss looming if certain favorites win, including Kopek Des Bordes and Constitution Hill. The event has drawn immense interest, with estimates suggesting that up to €1.2 billion will be wagered throughout the week. Willie Mullins is expected to dominate as the top trainer, with multiple favorites in the lineup, creating a tense environment for bookmakers. The festival is anticipated to shatter records, with projected bets exceeding £1 billion, and safety measures, including an AI racing robot, are in place to ensure a secure event. As the first day unfolds, the outcomes of key races will significantly impact both punters and bookmakers alike.