What happens if a match ends in a draw?

The answer depends on whether the market you bet into includes the draw as an option.

3-way markets (draw is included)

Soccer match odds are a common example. If you backed a team to win and the match ends in a draw, your bet loses. Any lay bets on that team win. The draw is treated as a normal outcome, the same as any other result.

2-way markets (no draw option)

Most bookmakers handle draws in 2-way markets in one of two ways:

• Sports that go to overtime (e.g. NRL): The bet is settled on the result after overtime.
• Sports that don't go to overtime (e.g. AFL): Most bookmakers settle the bet as half win, half lose. For example, a $100 bet at odds of 3.00 that ends in a draw would result in half your stake losing (-$50) and the other half winning ($50 at 3.00), giving you a net profit of $50.

Bet365 rules for AFL draws

Bet365 voids all bets if an AFL match ends in a draw. This works in your favour if you backed the favourite, but against you if you backed the underdog.

When in doubt, check the Rules section of the specific market before placing your bet.