What Is Round Robin Betting?
A round robin bet is a way of combining multiple parlays into one structured wager. Instead of putting all your faith in a single parlay ticket, a round robin automatically creates smaller parlays from a group of at least three selections.
This style of betting spreads risk: even if one selection loses, you can still earn a return from the winning parlays that remain.
How a Round Robin Bet Works
- Choose Your Selections – You need a minimum of three picks (for example, three NFL teams to cover the spread).
- Break Into Parlays – The sportsbook generates multiple smaller parlays (usually doubles and trebles) from your selections.
- Place Equal Stakes – Each parlay gets the same stake amount, so the overall cost depends on how many combinations are created.
Example
Suppose you select Team A, Team B, and Team C with a $10 stake per parlay.
- Doubles: AB, AC, BC → 3 bets
- Treble: ABC → 1 bet
That’s 4 total bets, costing $40.
If all three teams win, you cash every parlay. If only two win, you still hit on one of the doubles, reducing your losses or possibly making a small profit.
Advantages of Round Robin Betting
- Risk Management: You don’t lose everything if one selection fails.
- Flexibility: Can include 3, 4, or more picks. The more you add, the more combinations are formed.
- Better Payout Potential Than Singles: Multiple winning parlays can stack up for a strong overall return.
Disadvantages of Round Robin Betting
- Higher Cost: Since you’re covering multiple combinations, the total stake can grow quickly.
- Reduced Maximum Profit: Compared to a single big parlay, round robins limit the potential windfall.
- Complexity: Beginners may find it confusing to calculate possible payouts without a betting calculator.
Difference Between a Round Robin and a Parlay
- Parlay: One single ticket; all selections must win.
- Round Robin: Multiple smaller parlays built from your selections; you can still cash if one pick loses.
✅ Key Takeaway:
Round robin betting spreads your selections across several parlays, offering a balance between risk and reward. It’s a useful strategy for bettors who want more security than a straight parlay, while still chasing bigger payouts than singles.