Roulette Call Bets Explained: How the Racetrack Layout Works
Roulette tables offer multiple ways to place a bet. For new players, the racetrack layout and call bets can feel a bit confusing at first, with unfamiliar sections and terms on display.
This guide will walk you through what call bets are, how the racetrack layout works, and what sets these bets apart from standard table bets. Whether you’re exploring a roulette table for the first time or looking to learn more about the game’s features, you’ll soon see how these unique bets fit into the wider picture. Read on to learn more.
What Are Roulette Call Bets and How Do They Work?
Roulette call bets are special bets placed using the racetrack layout around the edge of the table. These cover groups of numbers that are next to each other on the roulette wheel—not by number, but by position. Most call bets use French names such as “Voisins du Zéro” or “Tiers du Cylindre”.
While this style of betting doesn’t change your odds, it does allow you to target groups of numbers tied together by their placement on the wheel. Since online casinos may feature different layouts or names for these bets, it might be worth checking the site’s instructions before you start.
Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
Understanding the Racetrack Layout in European Roulette
The racetrack layout sits alongside the usual betting area on many European roulette tables. Its oval “racetrack” shape mirrors the sequence of numbers as they appear on the spinning wheel, providing a wheel-based view, not just a list sorted from 0 to 36.
This design makes it easier to bet on neighbours or sections found side by side on the wheel itself. For example, choosing numbers next to one another on the racetrack will always match up with their real positions.
You’ll find sections marked with names like “Voisins du Zéro”, “Tiers du Cylindre”, and “Orphelins”. French naming is common, as the roots of roulette can historically be traced back to French casinos.
The look and features of the racetrack can differ between sites, so it could be worth having a quick look at the game’s instructions if you are switching between online casinos.
Roulette Racetrack vs Standard Betting Table: What’s the Difference?
A roulette table usually shows two main layouts: the standard betting table and the racetrack layout. Each is designed for a different style of betting.
The standard betting table is rectangular, with numbers from 0 to 36 arranged in order. Here, you can also place bets on options such as red/black or even/odd by setting your chips straight onto those areas.
By comparison, the racetrack layout follows the actual order of numbers as they run around the wheel. It might be helpful if you want to bet on a section or a series of numbers grouped together by their position, such as those covered by call bets.
Some sites offer both layouts side by side. In UK land-based casinos, you might see both at the same table, while online platforms sometimes let you toggle between them. Checking the game’s help feature could show you exactly which layouts are used and what options are available for that version.
Types of Call Bets You’ll See on the Racetrack
On the racetrack layout, you’ll spot several named sections for groups of numbers—these are the main call bets. Each call bet targets a particular cluster of numbers by wheel position.
The most common are:
- Voisins du Zéro
- Tiers du Cylindre
- Orphelins
- Neighbours bets
Most UK casino sites keep the same names and groupings, though the look of the racetrack and the way bets are placed can differ between games.
Voisins du Zéro
“Voisins du Zéro”, or “neighbours of zero”, includes 17 numbers covering almost half the wheel. These numbers run from 22 to 25 and include 0. To place this bet, you can select this area on the racetrack; in a land-based casino, the dealer will divide nine chips among the relevant splits, corners, and straight bets.
You can expect to find Voisins du Zéro on most European roulette layouts. The numbers covered are: 22, 18, 29, 7, 28, 12, 35, 3, 26, 0, 32, 15, 19, 4, 21, 2, and 25.
Different game providers may have slightly different layouts or rules. If you are unclear, the help section may detail how this bet is placed.
Tiers du Cylindre
“Tiers du Cylindre” (“third of the wheel”) is another main section bet, made up of 12 numbers opposite 0 on the wheel. The group includes: 27, 13, 36, 11, 30, 8, 23, 10, 5, 24, 16, and 33. Six chips cover the numbers with split bets, making the process simpler online, where a single click will place them all at once.
As with the other call bets, Tiers du Cylindre is featured in European versions of roulette both in-person and online. Paytables or help features on casino sites will show you bet details for that particular game.
Orphelins
Orphelins is the bet for the “orphaned” numbers that don’t fall into either Voisins du Zéro or Tiers du Cylindre. There are eight of these (1, 6, 9, 14, 17, 20, 31, and 34), split into two clusters. You use five chips to place this bet: one straight on the number 1, and four chips on splits covering the other numbers as pairs.
You’ll find Orphelins in the same section of the racetrack layout. Visual representations and how to place this bet can change between games, so it could be a good idea to check the instructions before you start.
Jeu Zéro
Jeu Zéro, or “zero game”, is a more focused call bet. It covers the seven numbers nearest to zero: 12, 35, 3, 26, 0, 32, and 15. Four chips are used, split among straight-up and split bets.
This bet appears on European roulette racetrack layouts and, as with others, may look or be placed slightly differently depending on the game provider. If you’re unsure, a glance through the game’s rules might explain how to set up the wager.
How Do You Place Bets Using the Racetrack?
Placing a bet on the racetrack allows you to cover clusters of numbers by their wheel position, instead of scattered choices on the betting table.
At a physical casino, you only need to tell the dealer your desired section, such as “Voisins du Zéro”. The dealer will take care of chip placement for you. When playing online, simply click or tap on the relevant racetrack section. The game will handle all chip placement, and some versions let you customise the number of neighbours when placing a neighbours bet.
Remember, each casino might have different minimum and maximum bet amounts for these options. It could be a good idea to take a quick look at the game’s paytable or rules so you know what’s required.
Is the Racetrack Layout Available in All Roulette Games?
Many European and French roulette tables sport the racetrack layout, both online and in land-based venues. You won’t always see it in every version, especially with American roulette, which has its own arrangements and tends not to include the racetrack.
The precise look and the placement of the racetrack vary between different casino software providers. Some may not show a racetrack at all, focusing on the standard table layout. Live dealer games online nearly always show it, though the format can differ from one provider to the next.
It might be wise to take a look at the game’s help section or preview images if you’re looking for the racetrack. That way, you can pick a table that offers the features you want.
Play Roulette Online at Bet442
If you want to give roulette a try and are keen to use features like the racetrack layout or call bets, Bet442 brings you a strong range of options whatever your experience level.
You’ll find a variety of roulette tables with clear, easy-to-use controls, and guidance at each step if needed. Play using desktop, tablet or mobile; all offer trusted payment and withdrawal options for your peace of mind.
Every table on Bet442 explains its bet limits and layout details, and our support team is here to answer your questions. With clear information on how every call bet works, we aim to provide all the information players need for a smooth experience.
Bet442 is fully licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and puts player safety first. If you’re ready to see how the racetrack and call bets work in practice, register for an account and explore all our roulette games at your own pace.
Always remember to gamble responsibly.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.