Best Horse Racing Betting Sites in July 2024

Top U.S. horse racing betting sites

Only US residents are eligible for bonus mentions.

At SBR, our top priority is conducting thorough due diligence when it comes to horse racing betting and selecting the best sportsbooks. In most states, FanDuel is the top choice.

On the other hand, more sportsbooks are also expanding into horse racing. DraftKings has introduced a specialized racing app called DKHorse, while BetMGM offers a separate BetMGM Horse Racing app. Additionally, Caesars Racebook is another option for horse racing enthusiasts. It is important to note that the legality of these apps may differ depending on the state.

Avoid offshore racebooks that operate in legal grey areas and only use ones that are licensed and regulated in your state. Steer clear of websites that offer reviews of these questionable racebooks.

FanDuel Racing Bonuses

New customers at FanDuel Racing can enjoy a generous welcome bonus without the need for a promo code. The bonus is automatically applied to all qualifying players.

Here are the details:

Up to $500 No Sweat First Bet

New users at FanDuel racebook can have their first horse race bet of up to $500 insured. Simply create an account at FanDuel Racing, deposit real money, and place your first bet. If your bet loses, you will receive a refund in the form of bonus bets, up to $500. These bonus bets cannot be converted to cash, can only be used for betting, and will expire after seven days.

FanDuel also offers new customers a bonus bet of $200 when they bet $5.

$20 No Sweat Bet on the Belmont Stakes

Don’t miss out on the chance to claim a $20 No Sweat Bet on the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown. All FanDuel Racing users, new and existing, are eligible for this offer. Simply place a bet on any horse to win, and if your pick doesn’t come out on top, you’ll receive a bonus bet refund of up to $20 from FD Racing. Make sure to stay updated on the latest Belmont Stakes odds and updates when making your selections.

Horse racing betting sites quick facts

Where to bet on horse racing

Horse racing is a thrilling sport that gets your adrenaline pumping. Its speed and intensity require precision and focus, with no room for error as every moment counts.

Starting to bet on horse races online can feel like a lot to take in at first. Key factors to keep in mind when searching for the top betting sites are security, customer service, and competitive odds.

U.S. horse racing betting sites

FanDuel is the premier betting site for U.S. residents looking to wager on the Kentucky Derby.

When assessing these sites, it is important to consider the following criteria:

• Available races and bet types
• Security
• Customer service
• User-friendliness
• Live streaming
• Additional features

Horse racing betting sites in Canada

There are limited options for horse racing betting sites in Canada, with most available in Ontario through sports betting. In Quebec, bettors can only place single-game bets through Loto-Quebec, while those in British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan must use PlayNow for retail or online wagers.

Residents of Nunavut, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories do not have access to online or retail sports betting at this time. The Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) regulates gambling in these territories.

At the moment, Alberta sports betting enthusiasts can only use Play Alberta. However, the province is on the verge of legalizing a wide range of top sportsbooks in Canada.

Single-game betting is now legal in all Atlantic provinces, including New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. Bettors can place their bets through the PROLINEStadium platform, the only sports betting platform approved by the Atlantic Lottery Corporation.

When assessing these websites, it is important to consider certain criteria such as:

• Legal status and restrictions
• Security
• Customer service
• Additional features

Horse racing betting sites in Ontario

Woodbine Entertainment is the sole owner of Ontario’s horse racing betting platforms, HPIbet and Dark Horse Bets. The company has been granted the exclusive pari-mutuel betting license in Ontario in order to maintain consistent funding for the pari-mutuel sector and safeguard jobs in the industry.

Residents of Ontario are prohibited from using legal betting sites for wagering on horse racing.

How we rate and review horse racing betting sites

We thoroughly examine every horse racing betting site, prioritizing security and customer service above all else. Without a strong foundation in these areas, the other aspects of a site become irrelevant.

Additional important aspects to consider during evaluation are the speed of deposits and payouts, the level of competitiveness in odds, registration bonuses, loyalty rewards, and the availability of live-streaming.

Types of horse racing to bet on

There are various types of horse racing events available for enthusiasts to choose from, depending on their preferences. While Thoroughbred racing is the most popular type among bettors, harness racing and jump racing also have a significant following in the horse wagering community. Read on for more information on the different types of horse racing.

Thoroughbred racing

Thoroughbred racing is the most common form of horse racing that comes to mind for many people, even if they may not know its specific name. In this type of racing, Thoroughbred racehorses are ridden by jockeys and compete over a set distance on a flat surface of either grass or dirt. The length of races can range from just under half a mile (or four furlongs) to 1.5 miles (or 12 furlongs). Races shorter than a mile are usually measured in furlongs. Thoroughbred horses are known for their tall and slender build, which makes them well-suited for middle-to-long distance races rather than sprints.

• Only uses Thoroughbred horses
• Takes place on flat surfaces like dirt or grass (no hurdles)
• Spans distances ranging from just under half a mile (four furlongs) to 1.5 miles (12 furlongs)

Jump racing

Jump racing, also known as steeplechase, is similar to Thoroughbred racing but includes obstacles, making it more of a challenging course rather than a simple sprint. It combines elements of traditional Thoroughbred racing with equestrian skills.

Although speed remains important, the key to success in horseback riding lies in the athleticism and coordination of both the horse and rider. Courses are filled with various obstacles, such as jumps and different terrains like dirt, mud, and water. The jumps can range from hedges to intricate designs. Unlike hurdles, this sport is not solely about sprinting, as courses are usually around two miles long and are more prone to faults.

• Adds jump obstacles to traditional Thoroughbred racing
• Terrain around jumps can include bushes, dirt, mud, and water
• Longer races that can last as long as two miles or more

Harness racing

Harness racing involves Standardbred horses pulling a two-wheeled cart, known as a ‘sulky’ or ‘spider.’ Races start with a rolling start behind a movable gate. The sport is divided into trotting and pacing races, with each race type requiring a specific gait. Races take place on dirt tracks and are typically at least one mile in length.

• Adds jump obstacles to traditional Thoroughbred racing
• Terrain around jumps can include bushes, dirt, mud, and water
• Longer races that can last as long as two miles or more

Online horse racing vs. in-person

Horse racing betting, whether in-person or online, has a rich history in American sports and is a popular activity in many countries around the world. While retail and mobile sports betting were prohibited in the US until the overturn of PASPA in 2018, in-person horse racing betting has always been allowed and exempt from the ban.

Off-track betting (OTB)

Off-track betting (OTB) has gained momentum since 2002 when it was legalized in states beyond Nevada and New York. OTB involves placing bets on horse races held at tracks where the race is not taking place. For instance, individuals can wager on events like the Kentucky Derby without attending Churchill Downs in person by utilizing a licensed OTB facility.

Although online and mobile horse wagering may be the future, many off-track betting sites are now partnered with casinos. The experience of watching simulcast races with other horse racing enthusiasts is akin to going to the movies rather than waiting to watch a film at home. There will always be a dedicated audience for this form of entertainment.

Mobile and online betting

Thanks to the rise of mobile and online horse betting in the US, wagering on horse racing has become more convenient than ever. The market is primarily dominated by three online sportsbooks, namely TVG and TwinSpires. Mobile and online betting in horse racing offers various advantages, such as access to a wider range of bet types. Additionally, it may include extra benefits like live streaming for individuals who are unable to attend a simulcast event.

Popular types of horse racing betting

It is important to note that the most popular types of horse racing betting are quite different from the various bet types offered in other sports. Therefore, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the specific betting market you are choosing before placing a bet. For instance, there is a significant difference between betting on a horse to finish in the top three and betting on a horse to finish in third place.

Single-horse betting

Betting on a single horse involves wagering on the outcome of a race with just one horse. Various forms of single-horse betting options include:

• Win: Picking the outright winner is as simple as it sounds. If the horse you wager on wins the race, you win the bet. Any other place finish would result in a loss.
• Place: For a place bet to cash, the horse you’ve bet on must finish within the top two places. Bookies created this bet type with photo finishes in mind.
• Show: Your horse must finish in the top three to win a show bet. It’s the safest of the three single-horse bets, and the odds often reflect this.

Exotic betting

Exotic betting involves placing wagers on multiple horses, whether they are in the same race or not. Bettors typically use multiple bet slips with various combinations in order to increase their chances of winning, with higher accuracy resulting in larger payouts.

Multi-horse betting

Betting on multiple horses in a single race, such as choosing one horse to win and another to place, is known as multi-horse betting.

Multi-race betting

Multi-race betting involves placing bets on one horse in each race of a series of consecutive races. For instance, this could mean selecting horse A to win the first race and horse C to win the second race. The specific terminology used for multi-race betting varies depending on the number of races being wagered on. Some common terms for this type of betting include:

• Double: Pick the winner of two straight races
• Pick 3: Pick the winner of three straight races
• Pick 4: Pick the winner of four straight races
• Pick 5: Pick the winner of five straight races
• Pick 6: Pick the winner of six straight races

Exacta betting

Exacta betting is the preferred choice for many when it comes to exotic betting. With an exacta bet, you are predicting the precise order of the top two finishers in a race. If you want to bet on the order of finish for more than just two horses, you’ll need to explore other types of exotic wagers. Some options include:

• Straight exacta: Bet on one horse to finish first and another specific horse to finish second
• Straight trifecta: Bet on three horses to finish in the top three, in exact order.
• Straight superfecta: Bet on four horses to finish in the top four, in exact order.
• Straight super high 5: Bet on five horses to finish in the top five, in exact order.
• Boxed exacta: Bet on two horses to finish within the top two regardless of the same order.
• Boxed trifecta: Bet on three horses to finish within the top three regardless of exact order.
• Boxed superfecta: Bet on four horses to finish within the top four regardless of exact order.
• Boxed super high 5: Bet on five horses to finish within the top five regardless of exact order.

Pari-mutuel vs. fixed odds wagering

Betting on horse racing is unique compared to other sports because of the reliance on pari-mutuel wagering. Unlike most sports where odds are fixed, horse racing bets can have varying payouts based on several factors. This distinction is crucial as winnings from pari-mutuel bets can fluctuate, while fixed odds wagers always pay out the same amount when initially placed.

Pari-mutuel wagering

Pari-mutuel wagering involves betting against other bettors rather than a sportsbook. In this system, similar bets are pooled together by sportsbooks, who take a percentage before distributing the remaining pot to the winners. The amount of your winnings is determined by how many others wagered on the same result as you.

For instance, if you were to bet on the top favorite to win a single-horse race, the payout would not be very high due to it being a common bet. However, if you were to place an exacta bet on two horses – one heavily favored to win and one considered an underdog – the potential payout would be much larger if the bet is successful.

Fixed-odds wagering

Fixed-odds betting is the common form of sports betting where a sportsbook determines the odds for a specific bet type. Once you place your wager, the odds are set and will not change, even if the odds fluctuate before the event starts.

If you bet $100 on a horse with +150 odds, you would win $250 if your prediction is correct, regardless of other bets placed.

Different horse racing betting odds format

In horse wagering, fractional odds have been the traditional method of betting. At race tracks, it is common to hear phrases like “I bet on that horse to win at 10-to-1 odds”, which is a way of stating fractional odds. There are other methods of displaying betting odds specifically for horse racing, so be sure to utilize our odds converter tool if you ever need assistance.

Fractional odds

Using the example above, let’s delve into fractional odds. If a person mentions, “I bet on that horse to win at 10-to-1 odds,” they are referring to a 10/1 fractional odds (+1000 in American odds) bet. This means you would earn $10 for every dollar spent on the bet.

American odds

Currently, the majority of fixed-odds sportsbooks favor using American odds. These odds are represented as positive or negative numbers, with negative indicating a favorite and positive indicating an underdog. For instance, horse A with -120 odds is seen as a favorite, while horse B with +130 odds is viewed as an underdog.

Decimal odds

Decimal odds are more commonly used in countries outside the U.S., like the U.K., although they are also favored by many Americans. One reason for this preference is that calculating potential winnings is often easier with decimal odds. For instance, if you wager $100 on a horse with odds of 3.5 (+250, 2.5/1), the payout would be $350 (your initial $100 bet plus $250 in profit).

Horse racing betting tips and strategies

When it comes to betting on horse racing, it’s important to do more than rely on your instincts. While experience will help you identify good bets, having some tips and strategies can greatly improve your chances of success. Here are some pointers to keep in mind when placing bets on horse racing.

Recent races

In most sports, hot streaks play a significant role, and maintaining consistency is a challenging task for star athletes, whether human or equine. It is crucial to be aware of which horses and jockeys are on hot or cold streaks, as this information is just as important as understanding their overall talent level. For instance, a horse may have the fifth-highest odds in an upcoming race despite placing in the top two in its last two races.

Racing conditions

Outdoor horse races are frequently impacted by weather conditions, with venues featuring dirt tracks that are vulnerable to rain and other moisture. It is important to consult the weather forecast before participating in horse betting to assess track conditions.

Line shopping

Navigating pari-mutuel markets can be challenging, but fixed odds sportsbooks provide a more straightforward option for line shopping. Each fixed odds sportsbook uses an algorithm to set their lines, so it’s worth comparing different options to find the best value. For instance, if one sportsbook offers a horse at +140 odds to win a race, it’s smart to check other sportsbooks for potentially better odds.

Racing analysis tools

Utilizing racing analysis tools can provide valuable insights for those seeking additional input. These external programs can produce a wide range of statistics related to important performance indicators, like a jockey or horse’s historical performance at various racetracks. This can be particularly helpful when weighing multiple betting options and trying to make an informed decision.

Bankroll management

It is crucial to carefully monitor your bankroll when participating in horse racing betting. Establishing limits on your wagers based on what you can afford is non-negotiable. Never exceed your predetermined limit by placing additional bets. It is also essential to accept that some days will be more successful than others, and it is okay to stop betting if you have reached your limit on a losing day.

How to bet on horse racing betting sites

Step 1: Register

To begin using an online or mobile sportsbook, start by visiting the homepage and clicking on the registration button. You will be directed to a sign-up page where you will need to provide personal details such as your name, email, and birth date. If there is a promo code required, be sure to enter it at this stage. It is recommended to use SBR to stay updated on the latest sportsbook promotions. After completing the sign-up process, don’t forget to check your email and confirm your account.

Step 2: Deposit

After finishing the registration process, it’s time to make your initial deposit. Certain sportsbooks may provide a deposit match sign-up bonus, which can be quite beneficial if you’re able to deposit more than usual. Alternatively, starting with a modest amount, such as $20, is also a great option.

Step 3: Bet

After selecting the sport and type of bet you want to make, place your initial wager. It is recommended to start with simpler bets like picking the outright winner. As you gain experience, you will refine your strategy and learn where to spot valuable opportunities. Keep in mind that in horse racing betting, the odds are pari-mutuel and will change over time.

Step 4: Withdraw

To withdraw your winnings, simply click on your bankroll and select the withdrawal option. Many sportsbooks provide various withdrawal methods, such as direct deposit to your bank account or PayPal.

Online horse racing events to bet on

Achieving the Triple Crown in Thoroughbred Racing is considered one of the most prestigious accomplishments in the world of sports. The Triple Crown consists of three renowned races: the Kentucky Derby, the Belmont Stakes, and the Preakness Stakes. A horse and jockey must win all three races to be recognized as an official Triple Crown winner.

The term ‘Triple Crown’ was first used by American journalists in 1923, four years after Sir Barton achieved the feat in 1919. Charles Hatton, a journalist for the Daily Racing Forum, is credited with officially coining the term after Gallant Fox’s Triple Crown victory in 1930.

Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby, the first leg of the Triple Crown races, is typically held on the first Saturday of May and is widely regarded as the most renowned horse race of the year. Since its inception in 1875, it has been the only annual horse race to have been held without interruption. The race boasts the largest purse among Triple Crown events, with a total prize money of $5 million, of which around $3.1 million is awarded to the victor.

The first prize offered at this race surpasses the combined purse of both the Belmont Stakes and the Preakness Stakes. The high attendance and buzz surrounding the event are a testament to its prestige. Taking place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, this race is held at one of the most legendary race tracks in the world.

Discover additional information about Kentucky Derby betting sites through SBR.

• The next race will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
• Grade 1 stakes race that will run 1.25 miles on a left-hand dirt surface.
• Race will start around 6:20 p.m. ET on NBC.

Preakness Stakes

The Preakness Stakes, the second race of the prestigious Triple Crown series, is traditionally held on the third Saturday of May, coinciding with Armed Forces Day. Although it was run before the Kentucky Derby on a few occasions, it has been the second leg of the Triple Crown since 1932. Since its inception in 1873, the race has taken place at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. The total purse for the event is $2 million, with the winner taking home 60% of the winnings, totaling $1.2 million.

• Next race will be held on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.
• Grade I stakes race that will run 1.3 miles on a dirt surface.
• Race will start around 6:50 p.m. ET on NBC.

Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes, the last event of the Triple Crown, is typically scheduled for the first or second Saturday of June. Known as the longest race in the series, it involves completing one full lap around Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. However, due to renovations at Belmont Park, the 2024 and 2025 Belmont Stakes will be held at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York.

Known as ‘The Test of the Champion,’ the Belmont Stakes is the final leg of the Triple Crown and the oldest race of the three. The inaugural Belmont Stakes took place in 1867, and the total purse for the race is $2 million.

• Next race will be held on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York.
• Grade I stakes race that will run 1.25 miles on a dirt surface (10 furlongs).
• The race will start around 6:50 p.m. ET on FOX Sports. This iteration is the second year FOX Sports has secured the broadcasting rights to the Belmont Stakes, and the agreement will run for the next eight races.

International horse racing events

Participating in international horse racing events is a fantastic option for betting enthusiasts. With the availability of off-track betting and the rise of online and mobile sportsbooks, it is now easier than ever to wager on horse races outside of the United States. Some of the top international events featured on horse racing apps include:

• British Triple Crown races: The British Triple Crown, like the US event, is a series of three races of varying lengths, including the 2000 Guineas Stakes, the Epsom Derby, and the St. Leger Stake. The British Triple Crown was first won by a horse named West Australian in 1853.
• 2000 Guineas Stakes: The 2000 Guineas Stakes usually occurs on the first Saturday of May at the Rowley Mile Course in Newmarket. It’s the first leg of the British Triple Crown, running one mile on a turf surface.
• Epsom Derby: The Epsom Derby is the second leg of the British Triple Crown, usually on the first Saturday of June. It is held at Epson Downs Racecourse, and the race distance is 1.5 miles on turf.
• St. Leger Stakes: The St. Leger Stakes is the final leg of the British Triple Crown, usually in late September. It is the oldest race of the trio, with the inaugural event happening in 1776. Held at Doncaster Racecourse, it is the longest race spanning 1.8 miles on turf.
• Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe: The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is held at the Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France. The first race was in 1920, running 1.5 miles on turf.
• Dubai World Cup: The Dubai World Cup has been running since 1996 and takes place at Meydan Racecourse in Dubai, UAE. The track length for this race is about 1.25 miles on a dirt surface.

Horse racing betting sites to avoid

Regrettably, wagering on horse races on the internet can sometimes involve scams. Illegal offshore sportsbooks are most prevalent in regions where sports betting is prohibited or lacks clear legality.

While it may be tempting to turn to speculative websites as a last resort, it is never advisable to use offshore betting sites. These operators are not properly regulated, and there have been numerous instances of individuals not receiving their winnings despite winning bets.

A few sites to be cautious of on our list of offshore sportsbooks are AmericasBookie, CRSportsBet, Zenit, Carbon Gaming, SkyBook, and TopBet.