Courses de chevaux – Guide complet 2025

Online sports betting is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to the variety of betting options and the convenience of playing from the comfort of your own home. Horse racing is one of the favorite sports among online betting enthusiasts. If you’re one of them, make sure you’ve chosen the right online betting site for you. Below are some factors to consider to make the right choice. 

• Casino License – Make sure the site is licensed and regulated by regulatory authorities, as it guarantees the safety of your funds, fair and unmanipulated betting. 

• SSL encryption system – many online betting sites use this, ensuring the user that their personal and financial data is fully protected 

• Types of bets and variety of competitions (major international and local races) 

• Competitive betting odds and bonuses – Good casinos strive to offer better odds to increase players’ chances of winning and retain their loyalty. Bonuses such as welcome bonuses or free bets are also common at reputable casinos. 

• Look for a casino with a mobile-friendly version if you prefer to play on the go 

• Don’t forget to look for opinions and reviews from real users to track the bookmaker’s history. 

Different Types of Horse Racing Betting 

Horse racing offers a variety of bets. Below, you’ll see the most common ones and what they represent. 

Win the market 

If you’re not yet experienced enough and are looking for an easy-to-understand bet, Win Market will definitely appeal to you. You don’t need any strategy here – you simply bet on which horse will win, and if you win, you’ll receive a high percentage return. 

It’s advisable to monitor the horse’s condition, as well as its performance in previous races. Also, pay attention to the jockey’s form and whether he has a winning streak. This will help you make a more informed choice and avoid surprises. The chances of winning are 50/50, but the adrenaline and thrills are guaranteed. 

Bet each way  

A one-way bet consists of two parts. You bet on which horse will win (the bet) and, at the same time, on whether that horse will finish among the top positions (the place). So, if you bet €30 on each side, you bet €60: €30 on each side. If your horse wins, you win both bets, and if it finishes in second or third place, you only win the place bet. The horse only has to not lose and be among the top positions. 

This bet is chosen by players who like measured risks and want a better chance of making a profit, even if it’s small. Each way is suitable for horses with higher odds, as they have a better chance of winning or at least finishing in a good position and therefore often yield profits. 

Placed bet / Finished in the top 3 

With a place bet, you bet on which horse will finish in the top 2, 3, or 4 positions. The rules are easy and straightforward to understand, and the chances of winning are higher because your horse simply has to finish in the top positions. 

Here, the odds are lower, but the likelihood of success is greater, so this bet is preferred by more conservative players who don’t like risk. Placed bets can be part of a broader strategy and combinations in horse racing, including multiple bets and each-way bets. 

Predictive bet 

Forecast betting requires predictions on which two horses will finish first and second in the horse race, in the correct order. This bet is intended for more experienced bettors as it requires a complex strategy and is more difficult to predict. Predictions require in-depth analysis, but if you manage to win the bet, the profit can be very significant, even with a small stake. Despite its complexity, many betting enthusiasts opt for forecast betting because the thrill is definitely greater. 

Reverse forecast  

This is an extended version of the regular prediction bet. Here, you bet on which two horses will finish first and second, regardless of the order. This type of bet is actually two separate prediction bets – one for each possible order of the two selected horses, meaning the stake amount is doubled (for example, if you bet €10, you are actually betting €20). 

This bet is suitable for punters who are confident in the odds of two horses, but cannot predict which one will finish first. It is sufficient to know only two strong horses to win the bet; however, the reverse prediction is suitable for more advanced players who know the history of horses. 

Winning distance  

Here, you predict by what margin the winner will beat the second-place horse. This margin is measured in lengths, and websites usually offer different ranges – for example, “less than 1 length,” “between 1 and 2 lengths,” “more than 3 lengths,” etc. 

This bet requires more strategy and is riskier, but it adds a thrill because you’re not only betting on which horse will win, but also on how it will win. Tips for winning this bet include keeping an eye on the stats, the horses’ form, and the track conditions. If you win the bet and have enough experience in online sports betting, you can win large sums with small stakes. 

Multiples 

Multiple bets are combination bets where you can include two separate selections (usually from different races) on a single slip, and all selections must be successful for a bet to win. The most popular types of multiples include doubles, trebles, and accumulators, which can contain four or more selections. 

The main advantage of multiple bets is that the winnings from each bet are carried over to the next, creating the potential for extremely high winnings from a small initial stake. However, keep in mind that even a wrong prediction will cost you your stake. 

Bonuses and promotions you can take advantage of 

Reputable platforms strive to offer a variety of bonuses with competitive terms.  

Free bets 

Free bets are one of the most common bonuses that online bookmakers offer to new and active customers. With this bonus, you receive a certain amount to wager without risking your own money. For example, if you place your first bet of €10, you receive a free bet of €10. If your bet with this money is successful, you usually only receive the profit, but not the value of the bonus itself. Free bets are a great way to try out the platform and bet on horse racing without too much risk. They are particularly suitable for new players who want to get their bearings without investing much of their own budget. 

Best odds guaranteed 

Best Odds Guaranteed is a special offer that gives you the highest possible return on your bet if the odds change after you place your bet. For example, if you bet on a horse at odds of 5.00, but during the race the odds change to 6.00 and the horse wins, you will receive the return at the highest odds. This is a great way for players to protect themselves from market fluctuations. This offer is especially valuable for early-stage bettors because it eliminates the risk of missing out on better odds. 

Reload Bonuses and VIP Offers  

Reload bonuses are offered to existing players when they make a new deposit. For example, you can get an extra 50% on your deposit, up to a certain limit. This is a way for bookmakers to encourage you to continue betting on horse racing. Aside from this, many sites have VIP programs or loyalty clubs that offer special rewards, such as cashback, exclusive offers, faster withdrawals, and a personal account manager. These programs are particularly suitable for regular bettors who want more value for every bet. 

Betting on live horse racing 

Live betting on horse racing is becoming increasingly popular, as punters watch the race in real time and feel involved. There is a dynamic here – punters can change their bets during the event depending on its development. Live betting requires quick reactions and a good platform that offers accurate and timely information. Many bookmakers now offer special live betting sections with visualizations, commentary, and options for different types of horse racing bets. 

Live markets 

Live in-play betting markets allow you to bet not only on the winner, but also on the outcome of the event. Some of the most common options include betting on the leading horse at any point in the race, the position of a specific horse at a certain point, the difference between first and second place, and many others. These markets are ideal for punters with good observation skills who follow the jockeys’ every move and the horses’ behavior on the track. In-play markets make betting more attractive and strategic because you’re not relying solely on preliminary predictions. 

Live Streaming Features 

Live streaming on betting sites is valuable for anyone who follows horse racing. It allows punters to watch races in real time directly through the platform, without the need for a television or additional apps. This makes it easier to make informed decisions, especially when betting on a horse race. Many top bookmakers offer streaming access with a minimum stake or an active account. The video is usually of high quality, without significant lag, making the experience even more realistic. 

Real-time tracking data and statistics 

Real-time data shows how horses are moving during the race—their position, speed, and track conditions. This information helps punters better assess what’s happening and when to place a bet. This increases the chances of getting more accurate predictions and higher profits. 

Popular Horse Racing Events to Bet On 

Wondering what the most popular horse racing events are for betting? Below is a brief description of them. 

The Grand National 

The Grand National is one of the most famous horse racing events in the United Kingdom. Held annually, the event attracts punters from all over the world with its 4-mile course, making it unpredictable and exciting. Due to the high odds and dramatic twists and turns, many punters seek the opportunity to make big profits with small stakes. It is one of the major events that consistently appears in tipster lists and media coverage, even outside of legal states. 

The Gold Cup 

The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the most prestigious steeplechase in the United Kingdom. Held annually, it brings together the best horses, trainers, and hockey players. The race tests endurance and is highly competitive, which is why it has become one of the most popular sports betting events. Many punters look for exacta combinations and consult tipsters to improve their odds. 

The Derby 

The Derby, held at Epsom Downs, is the premier race for three-year-old horses and is considered the ultimate test for young riders. It is part of the British Triple Crown and is held annually in June. The event attracts punters from around the world for its fierce competition and undeniable prestige. Like the Breeders Cup in the United States, the Derby attracts enormous attention and offers attractive ticket options, even in states where online gambling is regulated. 

The Best Horse Racing Markets 

Below you will see the best betting markets and what attracts punters. 

United Kingdom  

The United Kingdom is a favorite destination for horse racing, and many punters bet on the events held there. The UK offers both National Hunt and Flat Racing throughout the year, and bookmakers strive to offer competitive odds and attractive bonuses. 

Finally, the Gambling Commission is strict, making betting safe and reliable. Events such as the Grand National, the Cheltenham Festival, and Royal Ascot attract punters of all skill levels. 

France 

France is also a key horse racing market, famous for several events, including the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe – one of the most important flat races in the world. Races take place on all types of terrain, and the tactical approach attracts betting enthusiasts from around the world. Sports betting sites aim to offer good odds and guaranteed winnings. Punters often choose the French market for its stability, international reach, and high-quality racing. While some types of online gambling may be prohibited, betting on horse racing remains popular even outside legal states via international platforms. 

Ireland 

Ireland is home to some of the best trainers, jockeys, and racehorses in the world, making it a true hub for horse racing. Events such as the Irish Derby, the Punchestown Festival, and the Galway Races are among the most respected in Europe. Irish racing is renowned for its high quality and competitive spirit, making it extremely attractive to punters. Punters love the Irish market for its vibrancy, tradition, and the opportunity to make good profits, even on lesser-known races. Some Irish punters also follow international events such as the NFL.