Every summer we’re greeted with a number of sporting events that we can look forward to. There are quite a few that are repeated every year, while others are every two or four years, and as a result, have a higher degree of anticipation.
It is no different this year and there are certain events that are more than likely to capture the imagination of many.
We’ve taken a look at how these events might shape some of the summer betting markets and to what degree, if any, there has been a shift in habits and what punters might look to do based on numerous variables.
Navigating The New FIFA Football World Cup Concept
Arguably the most anticipated event of the summer, is the World Cup; an ambitious, extended tournament for the first time ever and, another first, hosted by three countries – USA, Canada and Mexico.
It means that there will now be 104 matches instead of 64 and because of this, we’re predicting potentially new betting patterns and potentially, a change in how punters bet compared to previously.
One such possibility could see a heavier emphasis on Group Stage accumulators, which naturally makes sense, due to there being more teams/groups/games and, this may add towards early World Cup revenue for bookmakers.
With the USA being the primary host nation, it would be wise to expect a surge in USA team betting, with a considerable amount of interest already across multiple states and sportsbooks appear to be really looking to leverage this.
OUR GROUP FOR THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP! 🇺🇸 @Visa | #NeverChaseReality pic.twitter.com/YwIM9puGEK
— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) December 5, 2025
Another indicator might be a shift towards ‘total goals’ market betting, especially considering such variables as climate. Locations such as Miami and Mexico City in games between top teams will have significantly hotter temperatures, so fewer goals might be anticipated.
Beyond The Big Three At Wimbledon Looking At Micro-Markets
In tennis betting recently, we have seen somewhat of a shift beyond the so-called ‘big three’ of Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannick Sinner, especially with the former likely to retire soon.
At Wimbledon; the flagship tennis tournament of the year, we could see patterns emerging that sees punters looking for players with long odds so the “To Reach The Quarter Final” market may be one that becomes popular this year.
You always generally have a couple of ‘wildcards’ who spring a surprise, so this is where the eagle-eyed betting enthusiast might see some value. Serve ratio is also an interesting one, based on weather which is often affected by which court particular games are played on.
Tactical Hedging For The Tour De France
While somewhat of a novelty event to bet on, because this is considered to be the biggest cycling event on the circuit, the Tour de France often throws up some interesting viewing.
A gruelling sporting event for all those involved, there are many factors that can affect performance, including weather, climate, humidity and form. This year, the competition will be centred around the “Fab Four”, that includes heavy favourite, Tadej Podacar, Jonas Vingegaard who is aiming for the Giro-Tour double, Remco Evenepoel and upcoming star, Florian Lipowitz.
With short odds likely for these, punters may look towards more value-driven markets such as “Podium Finish” or “Top Five”, especially given the number of gruelling climbs throughout the stages.
Notable Betting Metrics For 2026
This summer may see some interesting patterns from a betting perspective including a potential shift towards bets being placed after an event has started.
Furthermore, with the drama and longevity of the football World Cup overlapping with other big events including Wimbledon, it is likely that we see a surge in cross-sporting synergy where (should it be possible), accumulators are placed across different sports.
It will also be interesting to see how much of a surge there will be in the cash-out markets, especially given the predicted increased interest in the World Cup.