11:47am Monday 12th July 2010
Spain’s World Cup win sealed the reputation of Paul the octopus as arguably the most famous tipster in the world after his eight correct predictions.
The sea creature - based in a German aquarium but born in Weymouth, Dorset - had correctly forecast seven of the tournament’s results before last night’s final.
He opted for food from a container bearing Spain’s colours instead of a Dutch flag in his tank - and the Spanish duly went on to win 1-0.
Paul - whose predictions were widely followed around the world - previously picked his adopted country to beat Australia, Ghana, England, Argentina and Uruguay, as well as opting for Serbia and Spain over Germany.
His forecasts came when he opened one of two flag-covered containers in his tank.
Bookmaker William Hill said betting turnover on the World Cup was set to reach a record £1 billion despite England’s exit from the latter stages of the tournament.
It has also now been announced Paul is to retire.
A spokeswoman at Germany’s Oberhausen Sea Life aquarium said today he will “go into retirement and do what he likes to do best: play with his handlers and delight children who come visit to him.”
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