With X Factor viewing figures down again this year Paddy Power have opened the betting on what will be the peak viewing figures for the 2012 season.

Paddy Power make under 14 million viewers it’s favourite in the betting at Evens followed by 14-16 million at 11/10. Unfortunately for Simon Cowell it’s an unlikely 6/1 for the X Factor to match its 2009 and 2010 figures with over 16 million viewers.

Elsewhere, with Louis Walsh lending his support to jailed Russian rock band Pussy Riot, Paddy Power are offering odds of 100/1 on the X Factor Judge becoming their manager while it’s 8/1 for them to have a UK No 1 single in 2012.

Paddy Power said “Simon was a huge draw for X Factor fans and the show has struggled to reach the same heights since his departure. However, should a Jedwardesque act emerge it might be the kick the show needs to return to its former glory.”

X Factor 2012 Final: Peak Viewers
6/1 More than 16 million
11/10 14,000,000 to 16,000,000
Evens Less than 14 million

Pussy Riot!
100/1 Louis Walsh to become Pussy Riot’s band manager
8/1 Pussy Riot to score a UK No 1 single in 2012
66/1 Pussy Riot members to make a live appearance on X Factor (invited or not!)