Paddy Power pays out on 100/1 John Terry bet

The final league game of the season against Sunderland marked the defender’s last appearance at Stamford Bridge and he was given a guard of honour as he left the pitch 26 minutes into the game. Indeed, 26 represents Terry’s iconic shirt number and punters were surprised at the odds given by Paddy Power.

Paddy Power Statement

Paddy Power stated:” We replied to a novelty request for odds on John Terry's substitution - one of the hundreds on the Chelsea game - and fair play to the three punters who were on at odds of 100-1. To be honest the only mistake here is we should have clocked sooner there'd be another cringe-worthy Chelsea send-off for JT."

Chelsea Precedent

Following the match, John Terry revealed that the idea to come off in the 26th minute was his own idea. A similar event occurred two years ago marking the final appearance of legendary striker Didier Drogba. The forward was carried off the pitch midway through the first half by his Chelsea teammates. Funnily enough, that game also came against Sunderland. Following the 5-1 defeat, which marked another low ebb in Sunderland’s season, coach David Moyes revealed that he agreed to the ceremony.

Lucky Punters

One of the 3 lucky punters was present at Stamford Bridge and predicted the outcome. His £25 Paddy Power phone bet returned a cool £2,525. Indeed, Chelsea’s fanzine editor also suggested the ceremony prior to the game. The anonymous punter, surprised at Paddy Power’s market and generous odds, stated: "We thought maybe 10-1, 15-1 at most as there was a precedent set. I consider myself relatively lucky."

Another of the big winners revealed that he opened a Paddy Power account for the sole purpose of backing the 100/1 bet. After placing a £10 bet, his Paddy Power account contained £1,010 the following morning. “I only put money on this because I thought this is surely going to come in," said the punter, who likewise wanted to stay anonymous. "I don't normally bet. It's only the second time I've ever placed a bet. I was surprised the odds were that high."

Match Fixing?

The pre-planned ceremony could be viewed as match-fixing by some, with Sunderland keeper Jordan Pickford kicking the ball out under instructions by Chelsea players. The market gave punters the opportunity to exploit an organised outcome, but any action is unlikely to be taken by the Premier League. Indeed, Paddy Power have honoured the bets and all 3 punters have been paid out. The firm stated: “Clearly the send-off was planned for the 26th minute to commemorate JT - hence why we paid out."

A Touch Of Class Or Classless?

The substitution has split opinion in the game, with many feeling it is not part of the game and should have taken place at a more appropriate time. Others feel it was a fitting tribute to one of the league’s greatest defenders, playing his 717th game for the London club.