Your Guide to Pool Betting in 2026
Written by Andy Walker
Pool betting, also known as pari-mutuel betting, is a system where multiple players contribute money to a shared pool, with winnings distributed among everyone who correctly predicted the outcome. The method dates back to 1864 and was especially popular in the UK through 'The Pools', a lottery-style way of betting on football results.
Pool betting works a lot like syndicate lottery betting. It was hugely popular in the UK through the mid-to-late 1900s as 'The Pools', where participants collectively wagered on football match outcomes.
To place a pool bet, punters make a selection, and afterwards all the money staked is totalled together. Winnings are shared among everyone who predicted correctly, though some bookmakers deduct a commission before paying out. Generally there are no fixed odds — the pool is simply shared between winners.
In horse racing, pool betting comes in several forms: Tote Win betting (picking one winning horse), Tote Place betting (top positions), Tote Exacta (first and second) and Tote Trifecta (first three in order).
The best pool betting sites are judged on security and licensing, user experience, customer service, the diversity of markets, extra features like cash-out, multiple payment methods, and support for responsible gambling.