Horse Racing Betting Websites

1. Horse Racing Betting Sites Usa
2. Best Horse Racing Betting Websites
3. Horse Racing Betting Sites Australia
4. Horse Racing Betting Sites In Usa

Bovada is a fantastic horse racing betting site that covers domestic and international markets. They are one of the few licensed horse racing betting sites which seems like it may be easy to accomplish but it gives betters the peace of mind that they were completely vetted by a gambling commission agency. With a quality sportsbook as well as the best betting exchange in the world, Betfair is the place to be as far as horse racing betting sites are concerned. So much flexibility and variety is on offer, as well as a number of excellent promotions such as Each Way Edge, Bet £20 on horse racing multiples & get a £5 free bet, and more. BetAmerica is a sportsbook, casino, and horse racing platform offering a world-class, full-spectrum betting experience available at retail locations, online, and from our mobile app. BetAmerica offers more than 5,000 races per week, classic casino table games and slots, and around-the-clock pre-game and live sports betting on every major sport.

If you like fast action and sports betting, you most likely love betting on the horses. But, sometimes you just can’t get out to the track because of silly things like work or responsibilities. Boo, we know. Thankfully, your favorite tracks can now come to you in the comfort of wherever it is that you aren’t allowed to leave from. Horse racing betting sites are now offering horse racing action directly from your computer, phone, tablet, or smart device. As long as you have an internet or phone connection, you’re set to bet right now!

On this page, we’re going to talk you through everything you need to know to get started betting on horses online. As we know you like fast action, we won’t wait any longer and will jump right into the information you came to see.

I’ve Got a Hot Tip! Get Me Betting NOW!

If you’re just galloping through and you’ve got the lock of the century burning a hole in your pocket, we don’t want to be the ones to slow you down. Sometimes when you get a hot tip on a horse, you have to act fast to get your action in to collect your winnings. To help you get out of the gate quickly, we’ve put together our list of the top online horse racing betting sites.

Best Horse Racing Betting Sites by Race

If you’re looking to get started betting on a specific horse race, go ahead and check out our guides to the best horse racing betting sites online today!

What’s Important in a Horse Racing Betting Site

If you’ve never bet horses online before and have always spent your time at the track, you might not know what you’re looking for. Luckily, we have a team of horse racing bettors who have transitioned to the online realm and know exactly what a good bettor wants, needs, and can’t stand. Below, we’ve collected the list of the most important things our professional horse racing bettors think is necessary for a top online horse racing betting site. This is not a complete list of the necessary criteria, but it’s definitely the most important.

These are the criteria we used to come up with the recommended list of sites we gave you above. You can use those sites knowing that they ranked extremely high in all of these categories. Or, maybe you want to go rogue and find a site on your own? While we don’t recommend that, you can at least utilize this list of criteria to try and assess the quality of the sites you find.

Trust and Integrity

No, we’re not talking about trusting the horses themselves. We’re talking about being able to trust the horse racing betting site, their owners, the company, and what they claim to offer. Ideally, this should never have to be a concern of yours, but unfortunately, there are some bad apples in the industry that need to be taken out to pasture.

You need to be able to know that when you place your bets, you can trust that they’re going to be paid out properly. You need to be able to trust that the site owners always have your best interests in mind and that the way the site conducts its business reflects that. If they aren’t operating with integrity and transparency, they don’t deserve your business.

This can be hard to spot at times, but we’ve gotten pretty good at picking out the winners and the losers. We look at the company history, the owners and management, customer complaints, their business practices, and anything else we can get our hands on that might shed some light into the trust and integrity of the operation. For the most part, online sports betting sites are trying to do the right thing. But, there are several that are not in it for the right reasons or just aren’t smart enough to know how to do things the right way.

Betting Options

You want action, right? You don’t join a horse racing betting site to be able to bet on one random race, once a year (unless it’s one of the major Triple Crown races). For most of you, though, you’re looking to get constant action whenever you want it. This means that the horse racing betting site better have action at a lot of different tracks all throughout the day/year.

Additionally, they need to offer every different kind of bet that you would want. If they only offer you the ability to bet on the race winner, what’s the point? There are tons of different types of horse racing bets, and a smart bettor is going to want to have them at their disposal in case they have a prediction that requires them.

Luckily, this is pretty easy to spot with some basic research. Whenever we review the quality of a horse racing betting site, we flip through their list of offered tracks, the races they cover, and how many different types of bets they have for each race. As long as you know what the industry standard is, it’s pretty easy to tell whether the site is worth your time or needs to be kicked to the manure pile.

Betting and Transaction Limits (Professional Bettors Only)

This is most likely not going to be important to recreational bettors, but it’s something that we look at for our big-betting professional horse racing bettors. If you bet professionally, you’re going to want to be able to make the size of bets you want when you want. If a site puts heavy restrictions on how much you can bet on an individual race or bet type, it might limit you from employing the strategy you want and need to turn a profit.

Now, for most of you, this isn’t going to be a huge issue. The online sportsbooks are great about taking pretty sizeable action especially at the major tracks or during major events. But, what about the smaller tracks? What about the events that aren’t getting a ton of action? Are they still going to let you keep the limits you need? What about getting your money on and off the site? Do they have procedures and means in place to help you move large chunks of your bankroll on and large chunks of your winnings off?

These are things that you need to be looking into if you’re a serious horse racing bettor. Again, for most of you, the current site limits will be plenty. But, for some of you, it might be an issue. If you find a horse racing betting site that you like, but the limits aren’t what you need, we recommend contacting their customer support and seeing if they are willing to raise the limits or make special accommodations for you. You’d be surprised what betting sites will do for big players – pleasantly surprised.

Website and User Interface

When you bet at the track, it’s pretty easy. You get your paper program, pick out the horses you want to bet, and you take those picks to the counter and get your slip. Well, we think that online horse racing betting should be just as easy if not easier. And, we know from experience that a simple, headache-free experience is completely possible because the sites we’ve recommended have pulled it off.

It all comes down to this. The user interface (where you make your bets) needs to be simple to use, easy to understand, and organized in a way that makes navigation a cinch for you. It’s as simple as that. You should enjoy your time betting on horses online. It should feel convenient, and you should never have to worry about finding the track you want, the race you want, the bet you want, or the horse you want. If it’s not easy to use, then the site is not worth your time.

Bonus Programs

The absolute last thing that we look at when it comes to picking out the top horse racing betting sites are the bonus programs. Yes, everyone loves free money and free stuff, but these things can cloud your judgment when it comes to things that are more important. Would you rather get $500 free at a shady site you can’t really trust or get $0 free at a site where you know your money, and personal information are safe?

Obviously, the safety and security are much more important, but this can quickly elude you when you’re getting a lot of free stuff or free money waived in your face. For this reason, we wait until the very end to look at the bonus programs and VIP rewards offered by a horse racing betting site. Look at them like a cherry on top. Use them when you are stuck between two quality, safe sites. Just don’t let them be the driving force that gets you to pick a cruddy site over a great one.

While not always true, overly aggressive bonuses that make no sense often can be red flags. There are times when these are legit aggressive marketing efforts to drive new clients, but we are always on our guard when something seems to good to be true. You should be too.

Different “Levels” of Horse Racing Betting Sites

Horse racing betting sites come in all shapes and sizes. Some offer a ton of action on everything, while some offer a little action only on the big events. Which type of site is the best? Honestly, it comes down to you and what you’re specifically looking for. Below, we’ll break down the three different types of horse racing betting sites that you’re going to encounter on the web.

Major Races Only

The “lower” level of online horse racing betting sites are the sites that only offer action on the major races like the three legs of the Triple Crown. Typically, these are major sportsbooks that cater to the “more popular” sports and only include horse racing action to appease the gamblers at their site that like to bet on televised events.

Who are these sites great for? Well, if you’re someone who just wants to bet on the big races of the year and that’s it, you’ll enjoy these sites. If you like to bet on lots of major sports all across the board including the big horse races, you’ll enjoy these sites. Basically, they’re for the most casual of horse racing fans or those just looking for a little action on the big races of the year. You can get in and make your bets without a lot of the potential confusion of having to sift through tracks or a ton of different types of bets.

Major Tracks Only

The “middle” level of horse racing betting sites are those that offer regular action on races, but only at the major tracks around the country or globe. Sites like this are great for horse racing bettors that fall somewhere between full-time professionals and recreational bettors. If you like to bet frequently, you’re going to like sites like this. If you’re someone who likes the action and doesn’t care as much about scouring for value, this is where you’ll want to be.

These horse racing betting sites will have plenty of action for you without overloading you. Many of the sites we recommended above fall into this category while the rest fall into the last category we’re about to talk about.

All Inclusive

These sites are the mack daddies of horse racing betting sites. If you want action available to you at every track on every race anywhere in the world, these are the sites you’re going to be looking for. For obvious reasons these sites are limited and can be tough to find at times (we have some recommended above). This is because it takes a massive amount of resources for the online site to offer this action, but some do choose to take on the undertaking.

The value in these sites is that you have the ultimate in betting flexibility. Get a tip or have a prediction on a random race in the middle of nowhere Florida? You can bet on it. Have a system that requires you to search through a ton of different races and tracks to find winning value? Here’s your chance. While recreational horse racing bettors might find this overwhelming, you’re going to love it because your end goal is turning a consistent profit.

Is online horse betting legal in the US?

Before the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, many forms of online gambling were promoted. While this act stopped the operators of poker sites, casinos and sportsbooks from accepting wagers from the US, horse racing betting sites got a carve-out.

Betting online is allowed via pari-mutuel pools in any state, which provides horse race betting within its borders. There are 30 states that allow betting online.

More recently, individual states have been regulating sports betting within their borders. Horse racing has not been part of this legislation since the federal law already allows it. When it comes to on-track betting, simulcast wagering, and off-track betting offices, this is under the jurisdiction of the individual states.

In most states, you need to be 21 or older to place a bet.

How to bet on horse races online

Horse Racing Betting Sites Usa

Betting on horse races is different than betting on sports. Instead of the betting sites offering lines, bets are pooled into a system called pari-mutuel betting. As you’ll read below, there are many ways to bet.

The total wagers on different bets (win, place, show, trifecta, and so on) are collected, and then the pool is divided between the winning tickets.

Any last-minute rush to bet on a horse will divide the prize pool between more tickets. Pari-mutuel betting sets the price of each bet, not the betting sites.

There are three main types of bets. You can bet on an individual horse, on several horses in the same race (and the order they will finish) or on the outcome of multiple races.

Here is an explanation of how each bet works.

Single horse bets:

• Win: This is the most straightforward horse racing bet. You are wagering that your selection will win the race.
• Place: Your horse needs to come in first or second for this wager to be successful.
• Show: Adding an extra spot, you’ll receive winnings if your selection finishes first, second, or third.

Multiple horse bets:

• Exacta: This bet involves picking two horses. To win, both horses need to finish first and second in the correct order. You can “box” all multi-horse bets, essentially betting twice to cover both finishing orders.
• Trifecta: Pick three horses to finish in the correct order, and you’ll potentially have a big payout. Again, it is possible to box these bets, covering the six possible finishing combinations of three horses.
• Superfecta: This wager involves picking four horses to finish in the correct order. While it is hard to win this bet, the potential payout can be huge.

Multiple race bets:

• Pick 5/6: These bets involve picking the winner of several races at a specific track each day. It is harder to win than many bettors imagine, with one outsider winning a race upsetting a lot of people’s wagers. If a pick bet loses, the prize pool will roll over to the next day. If a pick’s prize pool rolls over more than once, it can create a considerable jackpot, which incentivizes many people to join the betting.
• Futures: You can combine futures bets for the most significant race meetings. A popular example would be to pick a horse to win the Triple Crown.

How horse race betting sites work

You can access horse betting sites on your mobile phone, tablet, or via a desktop computer. While there are differences between the brands, they work in much the same way.

Apps are available, too, though they are not required. The websites will adjust automatically to fit your screen size, putting the navigation icons and links behind menu buttons to save space.

Registering for a horse race betting site requires only a minimum amount of individual information.

Firstly, the sites will detect your location to ensure you are within a legal jurisdiction. You will also need to provide the last four digits of your Social Security number to prove you are old enough to bet (21+).

Here are the main sections you’ll find at horse racing betting sites:

• Today’s Races: The default view will show the latest races. You can scroll through this list or use the menu on the left to narrow your search by type of race or track. If you are looking for an individual horse or venue, then the search button is the fastest way. You’ll find basic information on the runners, along with the latest win, place, and show prices. Clicking on these betting lines will move a selection to your bet slip.
• Bet Slip: After selecting runners from the day’s races, you can organize your wagers using your bet slip. Some sites have a “quick bet builder” to simplify this process. You can remove selections, bet on single horses, or organize your choices into exacta or trifecta bets.
• Video Streaming: Once you have placed a bet, you’ll be able to enjoy the action via video stream. TVG is part of the Television Games Network, which offers additional media content.
• Results Databases: There are two levels of research possible at the horse racing betting sites. Primary data on each horse is freely available to help you make the best selection. You will also find the pro-level past performance data, which is free (site dependent) as long as you place a wager at the meeting.
• Account Information: This is where you will find your account info, balance, and progress toward clearing any bonuses or collecting loyalty rewards.
• Cashier: The cashier section will include your balance and an area to deposit and withdraw your winnings. We cover how to deposit at a horse racing betting below.
• Bonuses and Promotions: It is worthwhile to keep an eye on the promotions pages of all the major sites. You never know when a deal will appear, covering the type of bets you were about to place. We explain the types of incentives in more detail below.

How to deposit at a horse race betting site

Depositing any of the major betting sites is both straightforward and safe. While you won’t find the long list of payment methods available at the state-regulated sportsbooks, it is easy to get your money on board.

The primary method is your bank card, which can be your Visa or Mastercard debit or credit card. You can also use prepaid debit cards, including Visa gift cards.

Bank transfers are available under various names, including ExpressFunding or Expressfund.

Many sites will accept wire transfers, as well as old-fashioned paper checks. For cash deposits, you can use PayNearMe at your local 7-Eleven stores.

Finally, PayPal is available for both deposits and withdrawals. While many bettors welcome this service charge fees, the added security for online purchases.

Bonuses, promotions at horse race betting sites

You can take advantage of bonuses at the major horse racing betting sites. These range from small, completely free bets to matched welcome deals. You should also consider ongoing promotions and incentives; these can make a big difference to your bankroll over the long term than the initial welcome offers.

Here are the forms of bonuses that the significant sites have in common:

• Matched Deposit Bonus: As an incentive to new bettors to deposit, the horse race betting apps will match your first deposit with free bets. With $100 in free bets up for grabs, the standard match is at 100%. You will need to wager your winnings, and typically complete the required betting within 30 days.
• Risk-Free First Bet: Removing the risk from your first wager is used in place of the matched deposit method at TVG. Here, your stake gets refunded (as a new bet) if your initial wager loses.
• Promotions: Look out for promotions where your stake gets returned for second-place finishes, enhanced odds, and other one-off deals for specific races. Promos are often themed around the most significant events, for example, the Kentucky Derby or Breeders’ Cup. Some sites have regular promotions, while others change their lists all the time.
• Free Past Performances: You can get pro-level datasheets, and expert selections at TwinSpires via its free past performances offer.
• PicksContests: Here, you’ll compete against others at your site to pick the winners of multiple races.
• LoyaltyRewards: Collect points based on the bets you place, and then exchange them for extra bonuses or free bets.

Most popular horse races in the US

There are hundreds of races every day, especially during the summer. The main distinction is between thoroughbred and quarter horse (flat) racing and standardbred (harness) races. Furthermore, these races can take place on dirt, turf, of artificial surfaces. There are other formats, including endurance races.

The best horses compete in graded races. There are different levels of these with stakes races at the top. Some of these have multimillion prize pools, which attract the top equine talent from around the world.

You can also bet on international races at US horse race betting sites. Some of these, like the Epsom Derby, the Saudi Cup and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, are huge events.

On a day-to-day basis, you’ll have access to races from the UK, South Africa, Australia, and beyond.

Most prominent horse race events

With hundreds of tracks and various types of racing, there is a lot of action when it comes to the domestic horse racing calendar. The highlights of the year will vary, with each state having its big meetings. When it comes to the biggest races of all, the three components of the Triple Crown and the Breeders’ Cup are as big as it gets.

Here are the details:

• Kentucky Derby: The first leg of the Triple Crown takes place on the first Saturday in May at the famous Churchill Downs racetrack. This race is known as “the Run for the Roses.” It is open to 3-year-olds and run over 1¼ miles.
• Preakness Stakes: The second leg of the Triple Crown occurs two weeks after the Kentucky Derby and is held at the Pimlico Race Course in Maryland. Attendance is traditionally huge, only beaten by the Kentucky Derby.
• Belmont Stakes: Three weeks later, the final leg of the Triple Crown takes place at Belmont Park, NY. If a horse has won the first two legs, expect colossal media coverage of this race. The Belmont Stakes is nicknamed “the Test of the Champion.”
• Breeders’ Cup: This series of thoroughbred races with huge prize pools that move from track to track. It attracts the best horses from around the world each year. The biggest purse (at $6 million) is for the Breeders’ Cup Classic race.

Most popular racing events outside of the United States

In addition to the domestic calendar, there are major races from around the world available for betting. Here are some of the richest:

• Epsom Derby: This was the original derby that inspired the Kentucky event. It takes place on the first Saturday in June each year over one mile and four furlongs at the Epsom Downs Racecourse near London. This race was first run in 1780.
• Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe: France’s most prominent race takes place at Longchamp, near Paris, on the first Sunday in October each year. It is considered Europe’s second most prestigious horse race.
• Dubai World Cup: This race meeting is more recent, starting in 1996 in the United Arab Emirates. It is broadcast live on TVG and features the biggest prize pools of any race meeting around the world. It attracts the best global thoroughbred talent.
• Japan Cup: On the last Sunday in November, the biggest prize horse race in Japan is run at the Tokyo Racecourse, which is more than 2,400 meters. With a significant purse, this race attracts the best talent from Europe, as well as the US.

Thanks to a carve-out in the federal laws concerning online gambling, horse race betting is available in the majority of states.

As long as you can legally bet on a race in person in your state, you are also allowed to place a bet online. These bets join with the pari-mutuel pools operated at the tracks, which gives everyone a fair payout based on the weight of wagers for each contender.

Best Horse Racing Betting Websites

Three horse race betting sites dominate the scene: These are TVG, BetAmerica, and TwinSpires. And though FanDuel Group owns TVG, it started its own offshoot called FanDuel Racing.

Additionally, as an online sportsbook operator for horse racing bets, Xpressbet features more than 300 tracks so bettors can view odds and wager many different horse races. Derby Jackpot, powered by Xpressbet, is for a much less serious horse bettor and operates more like a social casino where players can win real money.

There are quite a few options to explore and each site gives you access to hundreds of racetracks around the globe. However, bonuses and incentives vary between these sites. You can enjoy deposit bonuses, risk-free bets, free past performance data, and plenty of promotions.

Horse Racing Betting Sites Australia

Whether you bet at the top-rated stakes meetings or regional, daily events, there is a wide range of betting options. You can bet on single horses to win, place or show, pick multiple horses in the right order or bet on several races in a row.

Horse Racing Betting Sites In Usa

You can bet right now from your desktop or iPhone, iPad and Android device. Check out what online horse race betting sites have to offer soon!