On this page, we will examine the best betting sites for winter sports, analyzing odds, payouts, and betting schedules offered by the bookmakers. We will discover how to bet on alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and biathlon.
| BassBet | 5/5 | Up to €500 + 200 free spins | 20 winter sports markets | Generous welcome bonus, wide selection of games, crypto support | Visit site |
| BuranCasino | 4.9/5 | Up to €500 + 200 free spins | 25 winter sports markets | Wide range of games, regular promotions, multilingual support | Visit site |
| Cosmobet | 4.8/5 | Up to €300 welcome bonus | 18 winter sports markets | User-friendly interface, various payment options, efficient customer service | Visit site |
| Velobet | 4.7/5 | Up to €400 first deposit bonus | 22 winter sports markets | Competitive odds, optimized mobile platform, wide selection of live events | Visit site |
| IviBet | 4.6/5 | Up to €150 welcome bonus | 15 winter sports markets | Modern design, weekly promotions, 24/7 customer support | Visit site |
| Casinova | 4.5/5 | Up to €200 welcome bonus | 10 winter sports markets | Rewarding loyalty program, wide range of slots, fast payment options | Visit site |
| Kingmaker | 4.4/5 | Up to €250 first deposit bonus | 12 winter sports markets | Engaging live casino section, regular tournaments, professional customer support | Visit site |
| Playzilla | 4.3/5 | Up to €500 welcome bonus | 20 winter sports markets | Intuitive interface, live betting available, various payment options | Visit site |
| 20Bet | 4.2/5 | Up to €100 first deposit bonus | 15 winter sports markets | Competitive odds, wide range of sports events, responsive customer support | Visit site |
| Weltbet | 4.1/5 | Up to €200 welcome bonus | 10 winter sports markets | Fast registration process, regular promotions, secure platform | Visit site |
Note: The above information is subject to change. It is recommended to visit the official websites of the bookmakers to get updated details about bonuses, available markets, and applicable terms and conditions.
The difficulty in defining the best sports betting sites for winter sports lies in the variety of disciplines involved. For this reason, we have carefully selected bookmakers that excel in different categories, ensuring a complete and satisfying betting experience.
Top winter sports betting sites by category
| 🏆 Best bookie for winter sports 2025 | BassBet |
| 📔 Best winter sports markets | BuranCasino |
| ⚡ Ideal for live betting | Velobet |
| 🔄 Great for exchange betting | Cosmobet |
| ⛷️ Best for alpine skiing | IviBet |
| 📱 Best mobile experience | Playzilla |
| 🎁 Best promotions for winter sports | 20Bet |
| ❄️ Top for biathlon | Kingmaker |
| 🏂 Ideal for snowboard betting | Casinova |
| 🆕 New bookie for winter sports | Weltbet |
To meet the diverse needs of bettors, we have divided the best betting sites for winter sports based on their distinctive features. The presence of attractive bonuses and promotions, along with competitive odds, was essential in our selection. In addition, the variety of betting schedules and a strong live betting offering contributed to our choice.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the most popular winter disciplines to bet on.
The Most Popular Winter Sports to Bet On
The term “winter sports” covers a wide range of disciplines. Many involve the use of skis in various forms, from downhill skiing to snowboarding, but also include luge, bobsleigh, figure skating, and speed skating. Essentially, these are all disciplines featured in the Winter Olympics. In this guide, we will focus on the most widespread and beloved specialties, which we will explore in the following paragraphs.
Betting on Alpine Skiing
Alpine skiing involves skiing downhill on a mountain slope. In competitive settings, it is divided into four timed disciplines: downhill, super-G, giant slalom, and slalom, for both men and women. Additionally, there is the combined, consisting of one downhill run and one slalom, and the super combined, which features a short downhill or Super-G and one slalom run.
The World Cup is a seasonal circuit that usually begins at the end of October and ends in mid-March, including around forty races for both men and women. The winner of each race earns 100 points, with points awarded down to the 30th place. Every odd-numbered year, the World Championships take place, featuring races for all the mentioned disciplines, as well as the combined.
Betting on Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is part of Nordic skiing, characterized by the heel of the boot not being fixed to the ski. Other Nordic disciplines include biathlon, ski jumping, and Nordic combined. There is also an annual World Cup and the World Championships for cross-country skiing.
The World Cup season runs from mid-November to mid-March, with just over thirty races. Individual scoring is similar to alpine skiing, but it varies for relay races and the Tour de Ski, a stage competition with multiplied points. Men and women often compete together, though with separate rankings. Race distances vary: at the World Championships, the races include the 18 km, 30 km, 50 km (the main event of the discipline), 10 km sprint, and the pursuit; for women, the distances are slightly shorter.
Betting on Biathlon
Biathlon combines cross-country skiing with rifle shooting, in a 20 km race (15 km for women) with four shooting sessions, two prone and two standing. Each missed shot results in a penalty, usually a 150-meter extra loop. These races make up the annual World Cup, while the World Championships are held every two years.
The World Cup takes place from December to March, consisting of about ten stages with different race types: individual 20 km, 10 km sprint, and 12.5 km pursuit. There are also mass start races over 15 km and relays, including mixed relays. Points are awarded from 1st to 40th place, starting with 60 points for the winner. The scoring system varies slightly for mass starts, keeping the same total point pool. The World Championships award medals for the same race types as in the World Cup.
Winter Sports Odds: Payouts on Skiing, Biathlon & Co
A crucial aspect when choosing a betting site for winter sports is represented by the odds and payouts offered. These elements determine the potential winnings for each placed bet. We have analyzed the average payouts of some of the main international bookmakers for disciplines such as alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, biathlon, and ski jumping. The results are shown in the table below:
| Average Payout by Winter Sports Discipline | ||||
| Bookmaker | Alpine Skiing | Cross-Country Skiing | Biathlon | Ski Jumping |
| BassBet | 93.5% | 93.2% | 93.0% | 92.8% |
| BuranCasino | 93.3% | 93.0% | 92.9% | 92.7% |
| Cosmobet | 93.0% | 92.8% | 92.7% | 92.5% |
| Velobet | 92.8% | 92.6% | 92.5% | 92.3% |
| IviBet | 92.5% | 92.3% | 92.2% | 92.0% |
Analyzing the data, we can see that the payouts are generally high, ranging between 92% and 93.5%, with minimal variations between the different disciplines. This indicates that the selected bookmakers offer competitive odds for winter sports, ensuring attractive potential winnings for bettors.
It is important to note that payouts can vary over time and depending on specific events or markets. Therefore, it is advisable to regularly check the odds offered by different operators to identify the most advantageous opportunities. Always remember to bet responsibly and consider payouts as one of many factors in choosing the most suitable bookmaker for your needs.
Olympics, World Championships and World Cup: Competitions to Bet On
Winter sports enjoy great popularity in various parts of the world, also thanks to the achievements of athletes who have left an indelible mark on history. From alpine skiing legends to contemporary champions, these disciplines attract not only viewers but also many passionate sports bettors every year.
When it comes to betting, the main opportunities to bet on winter sports are represented by three key events: the Winter Olympics, held every four years, the World Championships, held every two years, and of course, the World Cup, which offers dozens of stages and events in every specialty each season.
| Main World Cups to Bet On | ||||
| Tournament | Logo | Men’s Win Record | Women’s Win Record | First Edition |
| Alpine Skiing | [Alpine Skiing Logo] | Marcel Hirscher (7) | Annemarie Moser-Pröll (6) | 1967 |
| Cross-Country Skiing | [Cross-Country Logo] | Bjørn Dæhlie (6) | Marit Bjørgen (4) | 1981 |
| Biathlon | [Biathlon Logo] | Martin Fourcade (7) | Magdalena Forsberg (6) | 1977 |
| Ski Jumping | [Ski Jumping Logo] | Adam Małysz, Matti Nykänen (4) | Sara Takanashi (4) | 1979 |
Just like with other seasonal competitions such as Formula 1 or the tennis circuit, bookmakers offering bets on winter sports follow every stage of the World Cup. Each event is held in iconic locations known for their tracks and facilities. Some of the most famous venues include Vail (USA), Chamonix (France), Crans-Montana and Sankt Moritz (Switzerland), Kitzbühel and Sölden (Austria), Garmisch-Partenkirchen (Germany), Kranjska Gora (Slovenia), and many others across Europe and beyond.
These events not only provide thrilling sports shows, but also numerous betting opportunities thanks to the wide variety of available markets: race winner, podium finish, head-to-head, fastest run, and many others. Furthermore, live betting makes the experience even more exciting for fans.
Whether you are drawn to the adrenaline of alpine skiing, the precision of biathlon, or the endurance of cross-country skiing, the major winter competitions represent the ideal ground to test your betting skills.
In the next paragraphs, we will dive into the best strategies for betting on these competitions, analyzing the most advantageous market types and the key factors to consider in order to bet wisely.
The Most Common Types of Bets
Winter sports include disciplines that are often very different from each other, so it is helpful to analyze the types of bets while considering the specifics of each. Unlike more straightforward sports such as football or golf, winter sports betting varies depending on the structure of the races and weather conditions, which can heavily influence the regular course of the events.
There are still rules shared by most international bookmakers. For example, if a race is postponed for more than 48 hours (due to snow, strong wind, or other unexpected events), all bets placed on that event are considered void. Similarly, if the competition is interrupted and it is not possible to determine an official result within 48 hours, the bets are refunded. On the other hand, if the event is officially declared concluded, even if shortened, the result considered valid for betting purposes will be the one indicated by the sports organization.
Alpine Skiing Markets
Alpine skiing offers highly appreciated markets among bettors. The most classic is the Winner market, that is, predicting who will win the race. Alternatively, it is possible to bet on the outright winner, wagering on who will win the World Cup or a major tournament like the Olympics.
Another very popular market is the Head-to-Head, where two skiers selected by the bookmaker are compared: the bet consists of predicting which of the two will rank better at the finish line.
Lastly, the Podium market allows you to bet on who will finish in the top three, often offering higher odds but also greater uncertainty.
Cross-Country Skiing Markets
Cross-country skiing also shares many types of bets with alpine skiing. In addition to Winner and Podium markets, which apply to both individual races and seasonal competitions, cross-country skiing features a unique format: the Pursuit. In these races, athletes start with a time gap based on previous results.
This results in the Head-to-Head Pursuit market, where you bet on who, between two skiers, will achieve the better position at the end of the pursuit. It’s important to note that what matters is not the time, but the final position.
Biathlon Markets
Biathlon, which combines cross-country skiing and target shooting, offers a combination of typical markets from alpine and Nordic skiing. There are the Winner, Podium, and outright markets, all of which are sometimes available in live betting mode, given the intensity and unpredictability of the races.
The Head-to-Head Pursuit also returns here: as in cross-country skiing, it is based on final positions rather than time. This type of market is particularly interesting in pursuit or mass start formats, where differences can be minimal, and performance at the shooting range can overturn any prediction.
In conclusion, winter sports betting offers a wide range of opportunities, suitable for both casual and experienced bettors. The key is to understand the rules of each discipline, consider environmental factors, and choose reliable bookmakers specialized in these seasonal events. In the next paragraph, we will see how to choose the most suitable platform for betting on winter sports, evaluating odds, features, and dedicated bonuses.
Live Betting and Streaming on Winter Sports
The possibility of live betting on winter sports offers a dynamic and engaging experience. A downhill race can change in seconds, and a single error at the shooting range can overturn the entire outcome of a biathlon race. For this reason, real-time betting adds that extra thrill, attracting both seasoned bettors and beginners in search of adrenaline.
It’s true that the number of live markets is lower compared to mainstream sports like football, but this doesn’t lessen the experience: being able to bet on the final result, on Head-to-Head duels, or on podium positions while the action is ongoing is more than enough to make the experience intense and strategic.
Some international bookmakers also offer streaming services for winter events, allowing users to follow the competitions live and place bets more consciously. Considering that the winter sports season is limited to a few months a year, it’s always a good idea to check bookmaker websites to know if and when they broadcast events. This feature is especially useful for fast and technical disciplines such as ski jumping or slalom.
For a general overview of the topic, we also recommend checking our page dedicated to live betting sites.
Bonuses and Promotions for the White Circus
As with the Euros or the Football World Cup, there are times of the year when bookmakers release dedicated promotions and bonuses for winter sports. These “hot” moments – despite the cold – usually coincide with international events such as the Winter Olympics or the World Championships. During these competitions, it’s easier to find offers on single bets, multiples, or even cashback in case of a lost bet.
In most cases, these bonuses can be used to bet on alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, biathlon, ski jumping, and other white season disciplines. Promotions may include:
- Welcome bonuses available during winter tournaments
- Boosted odds on selected events
- Bonuses on multiple bets for winter events
- Free bets for specific races
It’s important to remember that some payment methods may not be compatible with bonus activation. For example, if you use a prepaid card like Paysafecard, we recommend checking the bonus terms to see if it’s accepted. The same goes for other e-wallets or cryptocurrencies, which are becoming increasingly popular among players.
To stay updated, regularly visit our page dedicated to betting bonuses and check the active promotions before placing your bet. A small initial boost, like an extra bonus, can make the difference during the most intense weeks of the winter sports season.
The Best Tips for Betting on Winter Sports
Winter sports are among those disciplines where environmental and technical variables significantly impact the final result. It’s not just about the quantity or quality of the snow – for example, a track with artificial snow behaves very differently from one covered in natural snow – but also the wind, visibility, and athletes’ physical and mental condition. For this reason, effective betting requires preparation and attention to many details.
How to Bet on Winter Sports
Key elements to consider to increase your chances of success when betting on alpine skiing, cross-country, biathlon, and other winter disciplines.
- Study the athletes: Every athlete has preferred tracks. Some perform best on technical terrain, others on fast courses. Analyze their form, any recent injuries, and performances in the latest races.
- Check the weather conditions: Snow cover, temperature, and visibility greatly affect the race. A more experienced athlete may benefit from difficult conditions compared to a younger one less used to such contexts.
- Choose your betting markets carefully: Don’t just go for the “Winner” market. Explore alternatives like Head-to-Head, Podium, or Pursuit, and consider betting on multiple diverse events (men’s and women’s, for example).
- Assess individual specialties: A strong sprinter in cross-country may not be competitive in the 50 km. The same goes for an excellent slalom skier who underperforms in Super-G. Study stats by specialty.
- Focus on a limited number of events: Given the complexity of winter sports, it’s better to concentrate on specific disciplines or athletes rather than trying to cover everything. This focused approach improves the quality of your analysis and bets.
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to betting on complex sports like winter disciplines. Having a clear understanding of the events, environmental conditions, and athlete characteristics can really make the difference between a random bet and a strategic one.
Finally, always remember: betting should be fun. If it’s no longer fun, it’s time to stop. Manage your budget responsibly, play with balance, and – why not – enjoy the sports spectacle in addition to the betting itself.
Stories and Curiosities from Ice and Snow
Winter sports have their roots in Alpine and Northern European countries, where they originally served as tools to deal with snow and everyday movement. Only during the 20th century did they evolve into the athletic and spectacular events we know today, becoming one of the most fascinating contexts for creating legends, heroic tales, and memorable moments. Here are some significant examples.
When Tomba Interrupted a National Broadcast
Although football is universally popular, some athletes have managed to capture media attention in other sports. This was the case with Alberto Tomba, who during the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary became so popular that his race interrupted the live broadcast of a prime-time TV show, drawing millions of viewers to their screens to watch the giant slalom.
The Relay That Beat the Hosts
During the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway was the heavy favorite in the men’s cross-country skiing relay, with the legendary Bjørn Dæhlie closing the final leg. But an underdog made history: the Italian team, led by Silvio Fauner, won gold in front of the home crowd, in one of the most memorable upsets ever.
The Records of Fourcade and Bjørndalen
Biathlon has seen two legendary names shine. Frenchman Martin Fourcade won 7 World Cups, surpassing Norwegian Ole Einar Bjørndalen, who remains the most decorated athlete in Winter Olympic history, with 8 golds, 4 silvers, and 1 bronze, plus 20 World Championship medals. Two absolute icons of precision, power, and endurance.
International Betting Sites Pass the Winter Sports Test
To conclude our overview of the best sites for betting on winter sports, we can say that the selected international bookmakers offer excellent coverage of white season disciplines. From World Cup tournaments to the Olympics and the World Championships, you can find updated betting schedules, live markets, and seasonal promotions.
The presence of live streaming, a competitive live section, and high payouts make the betting experience not only accessible, but also fun and potentially rewarding. If you too want to get in the game and race through the odds, now’s the time to start: choose your favorite operator and begin your adventure among skiing, biathlon, and much more!
FAQ
What are the best betting sites for winter sports?
The best sites are those that cover multiple disciplines, offer live and outright markets, and propose competitive payouts. In our selection, you’ll find operators like BassBet, BuranCasino, Velobet, and more – all well-equipped for the winter season.
What are the most popular winter sports for betting?
The most popular are undoubtedly alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and biathlon. These are followed by ski jumping, snowboarding, and figure skating, especially during the Olympics.
Is it possible to bet off-season?
Yes, many bookmakers offer outright bets even outside the season, allowing you to wager in advance on the winners of the next World Cup or upcoming Olympic Games.
Are there promotions dedicated to winter sports?
Yes, especially during major events like the Olympics and World Championships. Some sites offer exclusive bonuses for specific races or multiple bets. We recommend frequently checking the promo section of your favorite bookmaker.
