New Uefa Cup Format 'Still Big For Betting'

Europa League will continue to attract betting activity, it has been suggested.

The Uefa Cup changes its name and format next season, but the so-called Europa League will continue to attract the interest of betting enthusiasts.

At least that is the view of Graham Sharpe, William Hill's media relations director, who has said that punters "don't care" what the name of the event is, as they will continue staking their money on the competition.

He added that the current format of the Uefa Cup, whereby third-placed teams in the Champions League group stage drop into the tournament, can make gamblers unsure as to where to put their cash.

Despite the uncertainty, this system "doesn't stop it being a major betting event", Mr Sharpe commented.

Last month, Uefa revealed that the Europa League will be made up of 48 teams, who play each other home and away in a group-stage format.