If you’ve seen a market described as “without the favourite” and weren’t sure what it referred to, you’re not alone. This type of market can be unclear, particularly for those new to betting.
This guide explains what “betting without the favourite” involves and what to consider when looking at this type of market. Read on for a clear explanation of how it works and how it may apply to your next selection.
What Does ‘Betting Without’ Mean?
You might come across “betting without” markets in sports such as horse racing or football. This type of market excludes a named favourite from the outcome used to settle your bet.
If the favourite finishes in first place, your selection is judged as if the favourite had not competed. Your pick only needs to be the best of the rest to be treated as the winner within this market. The odds reflect this change.
For example, backing a football team ‘without the favourite’ means that if the favourite wins the league, your team only needs to finish highest among the remaining sides to be settled as the winner. It’s important to check how your chosen bookmaker settles these bets, as terms and odds may differ from standard markets.
These markets are available both online and in UK betting shops. It could be a good idea to check each operator’s terms before placing a wager.
How No-Favourite Betting Works in Practice
If you place a bet in a ‘without the favourite’ market, the outcome is settled as though the favourite was not part of the event. This market may be available in events such as individual races or league-based competitions.
For example, in an eight-runner horse race with one clear favourite, your selection would be settled as the winner if it finishes directly behind that favourite. In football, if one team is expected to dominate the league, the market might allow you to back another team as the highest placed excluding the favourite.
The odds in this market reflect the adjusted outcome, which is calculated differently from an outright bet.
Each bookmaker may apply their own rules to this market. You can usually find these in the terms section of the betting site or by asking staff in a shop.
Why Bookies Remove the Favourite
Some events feature one dominant participant. In these cases, prices on other runners or teams may be less competitive. The ‘without the favourite’ market gives another option by removing that top competitor from the equation.
This market provides an opportunity to place a bet on teams or individuals who are not expected to win outright, but who may still perform strongly compared to the rest of the field.
You may find this option available in high-profile races, tournaments, or leagues. It might be worth checking how each bookmaker structures the market and what terms apply.
Impact on Odds and Market Balance
When the favourite is excluded from the market, odds for the remaining participants are adjusted. These changes reflect the improved chance of other selections within the restructured market.
For instance, if a horse was originally priced at 6/1 but moves to 4/1 in the ‘without the favourite’ market, that reflects the new calculation based on the removal of the favourite. Bookmakers use this method to reshape the field and reflect the new probabilities.
Different operators may offer different odds. Comparing markets from more than one bookmaker can help you better understand the range of options available.
Each Way Betting Without the Favourite
Each way betting in a ‘without the favourite’ market is common in UK horse racing. In this case, both the win and place parts of the bet are calculated as if the favourite was not competing.
Half your potential stake goes on your selection to win (excluding the favourite), and the other half goes on your selection to place—again ignoring the favourite. If your horse finishes second behind the named favourite, your win portion would still be settled as a winning bet.
Each bookmaker decides how many places are paid out and at what fraction of the odds. These rules may vary depending on the size of the field and the race type.
Betting Without The Favourite Rules
If you choose to place this type of bet, the following points are usually applied:
- The favourite is excluded for the purposes of bet settlement.
- Your selection is treated as the winner if it finishes ahead of all other participants, not including the named favourite.
- Place terms are calculated based on the number of remaining runners after the favourite is removed.
- The favourite will normally be identified clearly within the market.
If the favourite becomes a non-runner, the market may be voided or a new favourite may be selected depending on the bookmaker’s rules. You could consider checking the terms set out by your chosen operator, or contact their support team for clarification.
When to Consider No-Favourite Bets
You may see ‘without the favourite’ markets appear in events where one entrant is expected to dominate. This can occur in horse races, football leagues, or other competitions where one competitor has a strong record or recent form.
Some bettors may use this market when they believe another team or participant can perform well within the adjusted field. This market can offer an alternative to the standard outright betting options.
As with any bet, it might be wise to read the terms and understand how settlement is handled by the bookmaker. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
