Betfair, Paddy Power and television services provider Satellite Information Services (SIS) had all confirmed their interest with the broadcaster in time for the 24 August deadline.
Bookmaking firm Bet365 has also been named as a potential bidder, but nobody at the time of press was available for comment.
A Channel 4 spokesperson said: “Channel 4 racing is back in a strong position. We can confirm we have had several offers from both in and outside of the betting world, and that the racing will be going ahead next year.
“Currently, our head of sport, Andrew Thompson, is examining all offers and figuring out which one works best with the racing. We are aiming to have a decision ready by early to mid-September after the board meeting.”
A spokesperson for Betfair, the online gaming company heavily tipped to replace Tote, whose deal finishes at the close of 2007, said: “I can confirm that we have put in a bid to sponsor Channel 4 racing and we are waiting to hear back from them.”
Irish bookmaking firm Paddy Power and SIS also confirmed their interest, although there was speculation that Paddy Power was unwilling to pay the £2m asking price.
From 1 September, due to a change in the advertising laws, betting firms have been allowed to advertise around racing broadcasts.
Bookmaking firm Bet365 has also been named as a potential bidder, but nobody at the time of press was available for comment.
A Channel 4 spokesperson said: “Channel 4 racing is back in a strong position. We can confirm we have had several offers from both in and outside of the betting world, and that the racing will be going ahead next year.
“Currently, our head of sport, Andrew Thompson, is examining all offers and figuring out which one works best with the racing. We are aiming to have a decision ready by early to mid-September after the board meeting.”
A spokesperson for Betfair, the online gaming company heavily tipped to replace Tote, whose deal finishes at the close of 2007, said: “I can confirm that we have put in a bid to sponsor Channel 4 racing and we are waiting to hear back from them.”
Irish bookmaking firm Paddy Power and SIS also confirmed their interest, although there was speculation that Paddy Power was unwilling to pay the £2m asking price.
From 1 September, due to a change in the advertising laws, betting firms have been allowed to advertise around racing broadcasts.
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