What Is a Double?
A Double is a single bet that links together two selections—usually in different races or events. For your double to pay out, both selections must win. If either one loses or places (and you didn’t bet each-way), you lose the whole stake.
How Does a Double Work?
You place your stake on the first horse. If it wins, all your returns (stake plus profit) are then used as the stake on the second horse. Only if both win do you get paid out.
- Both win: You win the double and get a much bigger return than betting singles.
- One loses (or places if not each-way): The bet loses.
Why Use a Double?
A double can turn two favourites at short prices into a single bet at a bigger price, or let you chase a large payout from a small stake. But remember: the risk is higher, as you need both to win!
How to Calculate Double Returns
Multiply your stake by the odds of your first selection. Take that total and multiply by the odds of the second selection. The result is your total return (includes your original stake). Want to see this in action? Try the Doubles Calculator →
Each-Way Doubles
You can also bet each-way doubles. Here, your stake is doubled—half goes on the win double, half on the place double. For a full explanation, see our article on Each-Way Bets.