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Term
Dead Heat
Quick Summary
The Dead Heat rule applies when two or more competitors tie in a sporting event. Instead of voiding the bet, sportsbooks adjust your payout by splitting the stake between the tied selections. This guide explains how the rule works, when it applies, and how it changes your return.
What Is the Dead Heat Rule?
The Dead Heat rule is used when two or more selections finish in a tie for the same position. Rather than losing the bet outright, your stake is divided by the number of tied participants and settled at the full odds on the adjusted stake.
This can happen in:
- Horse races
- Golf tournaments
- Team/player props
- Award or election markets
When Does It Apply?
Dead heats are common in the following scenarios:
- Horse Racing: Two horses finish in the same place
- Golf: Multiple players tie for a top finishing position
- Team Sports: Props like "first goalscorer" or "top scorer" can result in ties
- Awards and Futures: Shared winners in MVP or entertainment markets
Dead Heat Rule Examples
Example 1: Horse Racing
- Bet: $100 on a horse to finish 2nd
- Odds: 5/1 (decimal 6.00)
- Result: Two horses tie for 2nd
Payout calculation:
- Stake is split: $100 ÷ 2 = $50
- Winnings: $50 × 6.00 = $300
- Profit: $300 – $100 stake = $200
- Adjusted payout: You receive $150 profit (from half your original stake)
Example 2: Golf Top 5 Finish
- Bet: $200 on a golfer to finish Top 5
- Odds: 4/1 (decimal 5.00)
- Result: Two players tie for 5th
Payout calculation:
- Stake is split: $200 ÷ 2 = $100
- Winnings: $100 × 5.00 = $500
- Profit: $500 – $200 stake = $300
- Adjusted payout: You receive $400 ($300 profit + $100 stake back)
How to Minimize Dead Heat Impact
- Check rules before betting: Some books reduce stakes; others reduce odds
- Avoid tie-heavy markets: Top finish bets in large golf or horse fields carry higher tie risk
- Use each-way or place bets: These may offer partial payouts even in dead heats
- Compare terms: Some sportsbooks handle dead heats more favorably
- Be aware of commission or rounding policies on exchanges or smaller books
FAQs
Can I hedge a bet when dead heat is possible?
Yes, but it’s difficult to anticipate a tie. Hedging would involve managing exposure across multiple markets.
How often do dead heats occur?
In golf and racing, dead heats happen regularly—especially in large fields or closely matched contests.
How do sportsbooks handle ties in future or prop markets?
It varies. Some apply the Dead Heat rule, others void the bet or settle at adjusted odds. Always check the sportsbook’s policy.
What is the dead heat rule in cricket?
It may apply to “Top Run Scorer” or “Most Wickets” if players finish with equal stats. Stakes are divided among the tied outcomes.
Do all sportsbooks apply the Dead Heat rule the same way?
No. Some reduce the stake, others reduce the odds, and a few void the market entirely. Terms differ by operator.
Can a dead heat affect a parlay?
Yes. A leg with a dead heat will have its payout adjusted, which can reduce the total parlay return.
Learn More
To understand other payout rules and edge cases in betting, visit The Advantage, your source for sharp, rule-aware sports betting education.