What Is a Reverse Forecast Bet? Meaning & Examples

Curious about the world of sports betting, but not sure where to start? 

Here at Dream Jackpot, we aim to shed some light on the different types of bets you might come across. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the concept of a reverse forecast bet.

Whether you’re a seasoned bettor, or just starting out, understanding different bet types can help you make more informed choices. 

A reverse forecast bet is one of those intriguing options that offers a different way to place your bets. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer picture of what it involves and how it works.

Reverse Forecast Bet Meaning Explained

A reverse forecast bet offers a different way to bet on the outcome of events, typically in horse racing or greyhound racing. This type of bet involves selecting two participants that you think will finish in the top two positions, but not specifying which one will come first or second.

In essence, you are covering both potential outcomes: either participant can win, and the other can come second. This provides more flexibility than a standard forecast bet, where you must try to predict the exact order.

Like all betting, it’s vital to understand that your stake is at risk, and any return depends on how the event unfolds. Remember, sports betting involves an element of chance, and outcomes can never be predicted with certainty.

How Does a Reverse Forecast Work?

In a reverse forecast bet, you’ll focus on trying to predict which two participants you think will finish in the top two positions, but without having to specify their exact order. 

To place a reverse forecast, you’ll select two participants, for instance, horses numbered 3 and 7. Your bet covers both combinations: 3 to win with 7 to come in second, and 7 to win with 3 second. 

It’s important to understand that any winnings from a reverse forecast depend on the odds at the time the participants cross the finish line. Like all betting, it involves an element of chance, so outcomes cannot be predicted with certainty.

Reverse Forecast Horse Racing Example

Imagine you’re at your local racetrack, and you’ve got your eye on two standout horses: Lightning Bolt and Thunder Clap. You’ve decided to place a reverse forecast bet, meaning you’re betting on these two horses to finish in the top two positions, regardless of the order.

With this bet, you cover both possibilities: Lightning Bolt first and Thunder Clap second, and also Thunder Clap first with Lightning Bolt second. This effectively means placing two separate bets to cover both outcomes.

How To Calculate a Reverse Forecast

Calculating the potential returns for a reverse forecast bet can be made simpler with an example. Here’s how you can do it step by step.

Let’s say you’ve chosen Horse A with odds of 4/1, and Horse B with odds of 6/1 to finish in the top two positions. 

In a reverse forecast, you are placing two separate bets:

1. Horse A to finish first, and Horse B to finish second.
2. Horse B to finish first, and Horse A to finish second.

Step 1: Calculate Returns for the First Combination

For the first combination, if Horse A wins, the return is based on Horse A’s odds to win (4/1) and Horse B’s adjusted odds to place second.

The adjusted odds for the second horse are often reduced, depending on the betting rules of the sportsbook or exchange, but for simplicity, we’ll assume full odds apply. If you bet £1:

• For Horse A winning: £1 × 4 = £4.
• Add the stake: £4 + £1 = £5.
• Now, multiply this by Horse B’s odds (6/1): £5 × 6 = £30.

So, the potential return for the first combination is £30.

Step 2: Calculate Returns for the Second Combination

For the second combination, if Horse B wins, the calculation works in reverse.

• For Horse B winning: £1 × 6 = £6.
• Add the stake: £6 + £1 = £7.
• Now, multiply this by Horse A’s odds (4/1): £7 × 4 = £28.

So, the potential return for the second combination is £28.

Step 3: Add the Returns Together

To find the total potential return for your reverse forecast, you add the returns from both combinations:

• £30 (Horse A first, Horse B second) + £28 (Horse B first, Horse A second) = £58.

This means, if your predictions are correct, your total return from a £2 reverse forecast bet (2 × £1 stakes) would be £58.

It’s worth noting that actual returns might vary depending on the bookmaker’s rules for adjusting odds. 

Non Runner In Reverse Forecast: What Happens?

In the realm of sports betting, encountering a non-runner is not uncommon. This can impact your reverse forecast bet, as the outcome depends on the participation of both selections.

Typically, how a non-runner affects your bet can vary depending on the bookmaker. Some bookmakers might treat your bet as a single forecast bet with the remaining runner. This means your stake focuses solely on the remaining selection’s performance.

Others may void the entire bet. In this case, you would likely receive a refund of your stake, given that the original conditions of the bet cannot be met.

Be sure to check with the bookmaker you are using for their specific policy on non-runners. Understanding these terms can help you know what to expect if a similar situation arises.

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*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.

**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.