Football matches can sometimes be stopped prematurely due to factors beyond anyone’s control, such as severe weather or unsafe conditions on the pitch. When this happens, it can leave fans unsure of how the game will be decided and how this may affect any bets.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what usually happens when a football game is abandoned after 75 minutes, how bookmakers manage such events, what might happen to any placed bets, and the reasoning behind the rules in place. Read on to learn more.
75 Minute Rule: The Theory
You may have come across the term “75-minute rule” in sports betting, particularly in football. This refers to what typically happens if a match is abandoned after at least 75 minutes of play.
Many bookmakers follow the principle that, if a game is stopped after the 75th minute, bets are settled based on the score or outcome at the time play is halted. In other words, the result at the moment the match is abandoned is usually considered final for most betting markets.
This rule is based on the idea that, after 75 minutes, the game is “nearly complete.” However, it’s worth noting that different bookmakers might have their own variations of this rule or use a different cut-off point. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check the specific terms and conditions of your chosen bookmaker if you’ve placed a bet.
Abandoned Football Game Rules Explained
When a football match is abandoned, bookmakers settle bets based on how much of the game has been played and the type of bet placed. While each bookmaker may have its own process, there are common practices that generally apply.
If a match is stopped before reaching the bookmaker’s specified cut-off point—often 75 or 90 minutes—bets are usually voided. This means that players will receive their stake back, with neither a win nor a loss recorded.
However, if the game has passed the selected cut-off time, some bets may be settled based on the score or other outcomes at the moment play stopped. For example, bets on markets that have already been decided, such as the first goalscorer, are typically paid out according to the situation before the match ends.
As with any betting situation, these rules are clearly outlined in each bookmaker’s terms and conditions. It’s always a good idea to review these details beforehand so that you know what to expect if a match is abandoned.
What Happens To My Bet?
How a bet is handled after a match is abandoned depends on the bookmaker’s policy and the type of bet placed.
If the match has gone beyond the time specified in the terms—often 75 minutes—many bookmakers will settle bets based on the score or outcome at the point play stopped. For example, bets on markets that have already been decided, such as the first goalscorer, are typically settled accordingly.
For bets where the outcome is still uncertain, like next goalscorer, these are usually made void, and your stake is returned if you’ve placed a bet.
As rules can differ depending on the bet type (e.g., match winner, total goals), it’s always a good idea to check the terms for your specific market. Additionally, bets related to events that haven’t yet occurred at the time of the abandonment are unlikely to be paid out.
As always, you should approach betting with responsible gambling practices in mind and never wager more than you are willing to lose.
Are Abandoned Football Matches Ever Replayed?
In some instances, abandoned football matches may be replayed, but this decision is made by the organisers or the governing football body overseeing the competition.
Whether or not a replay occurs depends on factors such as the reason for the abandonment, how much of the match has already been completed, and the specific rules of the competition. Common reasons for a replay include bad weather or safety concerns that prevent the match from continuing.
In some cases, if a significant portion of the match has been played, the result may be considered official from the point of abandonment. In other situations, the match might be restarted from the beginning, or only the remaining minutes played at a later date.
To stay informed, it’s a good idea to follow updates from the relevant football authorities, as they will provide details on what will happen next.
If a Football Game Is Abandoned Does The Result Stand?
Whether the result of an abandoned football match stands depends on the specific regulations of the competition. Some competitions specify how much of the match must be completed for the score to be considered final.
In many cases, if at least 75 minutes of play have taken place, the score at the time the match was stopped may be declared official. Organisers may choose this route if they believe the game was sufficiently close to completion.
Alternatively, the authorities may decide to order a replay or resume the match later, meaning the earlier score will not be used as the official result.
Official updates from the organisers will provide clear guidance following an abandoned game, so it’s important to check these sources for the most accurate information.
