Paddy Power Social signs Joey Barton for World Cup push
Customers on the social sportsbook can now bet against the outspoken footballer during the tournament
Paddy Power has signed-up controversial footballer Joey Barton to lead its social sportsbook’s marketing push, allowing customers to bet head-to-head with the Queens Park Rangers midfielder during this summer’s World Cup.
As part of the deal, Barton will place a bet on Paddy Power Social for each game of the month-long tournament which customers can then copy or ‘Bet Against Barton’.
He will also be participating in the Facebook app’s Terrace Talk section which enables players to follow, copy bets, laugh at bets, leave comments and swap tips.
“We’re delighted to have Joey on-board for the World Cup,” Jack Dinan, Paddy Power Social marketing manager, told eGaming Review.
“Joe’s knowledge of the game and his understanding of social media make him the perfect sport-star to demonstrate what Paddy Power Social is all about,” he added.
The current QPR star previously played for Manchester City, Newcastle United and Marseille, as well as winning a cap for England in 2007, despite a career marred by disciplinary problems on and off the pitch.
“Considering his background in football, social media and political debate, we’re sure that Joey won’t shy away from any tough tackles on the chat boards,” Dinan added.
Paddy Power Social originally beta-launched as Paddy Power In-Play on Facebook last year, becoming the first real-money sports betting app on the social network.
The sportsbook recently underwent a complete redesign including a revamped landing page, a new ‘thumbs up’ logo similar to the Facebook ‘like’ button and updated social features.