Paddy Power was established in 1988 and is Ireland’s biggest and most popular bookmaker. Paddy was the result of the merger of three existing Irish bookmakers, who decided to combine the 40 betting shops they had at that time, in order to create something huge. They managed it, since they operate a huge number of 356 betting shops and they are the third largest online bookmaker and sixth largest online gaming business in Britain and Ireland. On 14 May 2010, Paddy Power acquired a majority stake in Australian bookmaker Sportsbet.com.au, while they have also merged with Betfair.

The bookmaker is known for offering odds on controversial markets in order to gain publicity. For example, in November 2008, there were offered odds of 16/1 in the possibility that U.S. President Barack Obama ‘would not finish’ his first term (this was widely interpreted as his odds of assassination). Other controversial markets were «the first species to be driven to extinction by the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico» and « potential extinction of the polar bear».

In total they offer a massive number of 40 different sports, while they are also a good choice for football lovers. The punters will find a great number of alternative betting selections that may reach 135 different markets at every match. Many special bets are also available, such as combinations of two players to score, a player to score and the other to hit the woodwork and many more. Moreover, cash out feature is provided to the players and outright bets as well.

The live betting section is very attractive, user friendly and with lots of choices. The players can place bets in a wide range of markets, there is a fast betting feature. There is also available a Multiview option, where the punters may monitor up to 9 events simultaneously. Finally, a live streaming feature is available.

The payments are being concluded really fast and through a satisfying variety of methods, while the limits at winnings are high. Mobile applications can be found for every platform, and also there is provided a phone betting service. The players can also enjoy placing their bets on Virtual Sports, Poker, Casino, Live Casino, Games, Lotteries and Bingo.

Although there are not any welcome bonuses available, the players will find a great number of promotions. Accumulator insurance, Early payouts on Premier League matches and on Rugby matches, a tennis free bet, a US sports accumulator insurance and horse racing/greyhounds money back specials.