If you’re placing an each-way bet, you might be curious about when a bookmaker pays out on a horse (or selection) finishing 4th. The answer isn’t always the same—it depends on the type of event, the number of runners, and the specific terms offered by your bookmaker.
Each-way betting is most often associated with horse racing, though you’ll occasionally find similar options available in other sports. Knowing when 4th place qualifies for a payout can help you better understand the potential returns from your bet.
In this blog post, we’ll explore when bookies typically pay out on a 4th place finish and highlight the key terms to look out for. Read on to learn more.
In most cases, bookmakers pay out on the top three finishers when it comes to each-way bets. However, bettors will sometimes see four places paid instead of the usual three, particularly during larger events or races with a higher number of participants.
This means that if a selected horse, team, or player finishes in the top four, the place portion of the each-way bet may return a payout. These extended place terms are most commonly seen in major horse racing events or golf tournaments, where the size of the field allows for broader payout terms.
Bookmakers tend to promote these offers in advance, often highlighting them for a specific race or limited time. You can usually find the details on the bookmaker’s website or app, so it’s worth checking the place terms if you’re considering placing a bet.
Bookmakers typically offer 4-place payouts during larger events, especially those with a high number of participants. The Grand National is a well-known example, where the size of the field often leads to extended place terms.
Major golf tournaments and key dates in the horse racing calendar also tend to feature these offers. They’re usually part of limited-time promotions and apply to specific events, so it’s worth checking the bookmaker’s site or app to see when they’re available.
Not every race or match will qualify, and the list of eligible events may vary. By understanding how and when these offers are made, you are better positioned to make the most of them when they’re on offer if you’re interested in doing so.
If you choose to place an each-way bet and your horse finishes 4th in a race where the bookmaker is paying four places, your potential return depends on the place terms for that specific event.
Each-way bets are made up of two parts: one bet on your horse to win, and another on it to finish within the stated place positions. If your horse comes 4th, the win part of your bet wouldn’t pay out—but the place part could, as long as the race is offering payouts down to fourth place.
Bookmakers typically pay a fraction of the win odds for a place. This is usually 1/4 or 1/5, depending on the event. For instance, if the win odds are 20/1 and the place terms are 1/5, the place odds would be 4/1. So, with a £5 place stake, your return would be £20 in winnings, plus your original £5 stake—giving you £25 in total.
The exact place terms are usually shown alongside the race or market on your bookmaker’s site, so it’s worth checking those before placing your bet.
If you’re thinking about placing an each-way bet, the number of runners in a race often plays a key role in whether four places are paid out. As a general rule, races with 12 or more horses are more likely to offer payouts down to 4th place, but this can vary depending on the bookmaker and the event.
You’re more likely to see these extended place terms in well-attended, high-profile races, while smaller fields usually stick to the standard three places. If you’re considering a bet, it’s a good idea to check the racecard or event listing with your bookmaker—the minimum field size required for four places will normally be clearly shown.
Being aware of this can help you focus on races where you might get a bit more from your each-way bets. And, as always, if you choose to get involved, keep responsible betting practices in mind and stay within a budget that works for you.
*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.
**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.