World Cup bets set to top one billion pounds in Britain

“The last World Cup came close to producing a one billion  pounds turnover but we have no doubt the 2010 tournament will  smash through the barrier and go well beyond,” said William Hill  spokesman Graham Sharpe in a news release.

“The excitement and interest surrounding the tournament is  at an all-time high and it looks the most open World Cup for  many years which will enhance the betting interest.”

England, drawn against United States, Slovenia and Algeria  in Group C, are quoted at 5-1 to win the trophy for the first  time since 1966. European champions Spain are 4-1 favourites.