AWAY THE LADS

SPFL bosses celebrate new £5million contract extension with bookie

THE SPFL is set for a bumper cash boost after sealing a new deal worth up to £5million with sponsors Ladbrokes until 2020. Record Sport understands the leading bookmakers have signed up for another two seasons as the league’s main backer. And they have hiked up their investment in the process. They have ploughed in £2m per year since hooking up with the SPFL in 2015 but the new deal has been struck with improved terms.

It is understood the contract has already been signed and

delivered and is set to be announced within the next 48 hours.

Ladbrokes have been on board with the SPFL since 2015 after the new-look set-up was launched in 2013 without a title sponsor.

The original £4m deal was the most lucrative in the league’s history and there was no hesitation when Ladbrokes had the opportunity to activate their option to extend it by one year last summer.

It’s understood the betting giants have been delighted with the partnership with the Scottish game and were keen to remain involved beyond the end of the contract.

The SPFL has enjoyed a boost in profile and a rise in Premiership attendances at several clubs following the return of Hearts, Rangers and Hibs to the top flight, while the Championship has continued to draw attention with big games also being screened live on television.

One club source told Record Sport: “This is certainly very good news for the SPFL.

“Ladbrokes have been fantastic partners for Scottish football and it’s been a relationship that has definitely benefited both parties.”

The league will continue to be known as the Ladbrokes SPFL following the completion of last month’s £4billion merger with the Gala Coral Group.