Tomlinson and Rita Ora favourites for X Factor judging stint

Louis Tomlinson and Rita Ora are among the favourites to join this year’s X Factor judging panel after Cheryl quashed rumours of a return to the show.

The former Girls Aloud member hinted in January that she was set to make a return to the line-up, but has since dispelled those claims.

With Cheryl apparently ruling herself out, speculation is rife as to who will Call the Shots on the ITV show.

Former One Direction member Tomlinson is the odds-on 4/6 favourite to land the role on a permanent basis after appearing as a guest judge in 2015.

He’ll face competition from former The Voice coach Rita Ora. The singer was previously on the X Factor panel in 2015 and is available at 5/4 for a return.

Kylie Minogue is next best at 3/1 ahead of Craig David at 7/2.

Outsiders in the field include Robbie Williams (6/1), Lily Allen (8/1) and Louise Redknapp at 10/1.

Jessica Bridge of Ladbrokes said: “With Cheryl tied up to her BBC show punters are beginning to shun her return in favour of Louis or Rita.”
Ladbrokes Latest Betting:

X Factor judge betting

Louis Tomlinson – 4/6

Rita Ora – 5/4

Kylie Minogue – 2/1

Cheryl – 3/1

Craig David –  7/2

Gloria Estefan – 5/1

Mel B – 6/1

Robbie Williams – 6/1

Zayn Malik – 7/1

Lily Allen – 8/1

Louise Redknapp – 10/1

All Odds and Markets correct as of date of publication