You’ve placed a five-leg multi-bet. Three games have already been won, the fourth is in play, and the last is set to kick off soon. Suddenly, one word ruins it is Postponed. What now? Is your bet void? Will you get paid? For punters, few things are more frustrating than a postponed game in an accumulator.
This guide breaks down exactly what happens to a multi-bet when one game is postponed. We explain how bookmakers handle it, what happens to your odds and payout, and what to expect based on standard sportsbook rules.
What is a Multi Bet?
A multi-bet, also called an accumulator or combo bet, is a single wager that links two or more individual bets. All selections must win for the overall bet to succeed. Bettors choose multi-bets to increase potential payouts, as the combined odds multiply with each leg added. However, this also means the risk is higher. If one selection loses, the entire bet loses.
What Happens to a Multi Bet When One Game Is Postponed?
When one game in a multi bet is postponed, the impact on your bet depends on your betting site’s rules. However, most reputable bookmakers follow one of the following processes:
- The Postponed Game is Voided
This is the most common outcome. If a match is postponed and not played within a specified time frame (usually 24 to 72 hours), the bookmaker will void that selection. The multi bet remains valid, and your payout will be recalculated based on the remaining selections.
Example: If you place a four-leg multi bet and one game is postponed, the other three bets continue. The odds for the voided match are removed, and your new total odds are calculated from the remaining legs.
- The Entire Bet is Held Open
Some bookmakers may choose to keep the entire multi-bet open until the postponed game is played, especially if it is rescheduled within a short period and remains officially part of the betting schedule. This is more common in high-profile events or when the delay is weather-related or caused by logistical issues.
- The Multi Bet is Settled Early (in Some Cases)
In rare cases, if you’ve already lost another leg in your multi-bet, the bet may be settled as a loss immediately, regardless of the postponed match. Similarly, if all other legs have already won and only the postponed match remains, your bookmaker might offer you a partial payout or wait for rescheduling.
How Betting Sites Handle Postponed Games in Multi Bets
Let’s look at how top sportsbooks handle postponed games:
MayBets CEO Aggrey Sayi states that if a game in your multi-bet is postponed and not played within 24-48 hours, it is considered void. The remaining bets stay active.
Additionally, Jeremy, head of risk, states that bookmakers usually remove the odds for the postponed game and recalculate the remaining bet.
Afrik-Foot confirms that most sports betting platforms void the affected game without canceling the entire multi-bet.
These rules may vary slightly, but the core idea remains consistent: your multi-bet is not automatically lost if one game is postponed.
Effects on Odds and Payouts
When a leg in a multi bet is voided:
- The voided leg is removed from the odds calculation.
- The final payout is reduced because one selection has been taken out.
- If the voided game had high odds, the drop in potential payout could be significant.
Example: You placed a multi bet with five selections, and the total odds were 12.0. One game is postponed and voided. Your bet is now based on four selections, reducing your odds to 7.5. The bet still stands but with lower potential returns.
Timing Matters
Most sportsbooks have a set timeframe within which postponed games must be played to remain valid. This typically ranges from 24 to 72 hours. If the match is played within this period, it may still count towards your multi-bet. If not, it’s voided. The betting rules also specify whether the game must be completed or only started within that period.
Does a Postponed Game Affect Your Stake?
No. The stake you placed on the full multi bet remains the same. However, if one leg is voided, you’re essentially betting on fewer games, so the risk is slightly lower, but so is the reward.
Cash Out and Postponed Games
You may be given a chance to cash out your multi bet after one game is postponed, but the offer will depend on how your remaining legs are performing. Most sportsbooks automatically update your cash-out value after voiding a game.
Keep in mind:
- Cash-out offers may be lower after the odds are recalculated.
- Some platforms suspend cash out while waiting for updates on postponed matches.
Live Bets vs. Pre-Match Bets
In pre-match bets, postponement policies are generally more lenient. For live betting, if a game is paused and later declared postponed, the treatment depends on how long it has been played and the sportsbook’s live betting policy.
Tips for Bettors: What to Do When One Game Is Postponed
Read the bookmaker’s rules: Each sportsbook has its betting terms. Knowing how your site handles postponed games helps you plan.
Track fixtures: Especially in leagues prone to weather-related delays.
Avoid relying on high-risk games: Matches with political, weather, or logistical uncertainty increase your exposure.
Use smaller accumulators: Fewer legs mean less risk of disruption.
FAQ: What Happens to a Multi Bet When One Game Is Postponed?
Does a postponed game cancel my entire multi-bet?
No. Most betting sites void the postponed game and continue with the rest of your selections.
Will I get a refund if one game is postponed?
Not a full refund. The postponed game is voided, but the remaining legs continue. You only lose your stake if the remaining selections fail to win.
How do bookmakers calculate odds after a game is voided?
They remove the odds of the postponed leg and recalculate based on the remaining games.
Can I cash out after a game is postponed?
Yes, but the offer is subject to change. It may be suspended temporarily depending on the bookmaker’s system.
What happens if more than one game is postponed?
All postponed matches are voided. Your multi-bet continues with valid selections only, and odds are adjusted accordingly.
Will I still get a bonus payout or boost?
Some sportsbooks offer accumulator bonuses for winning multiple bets. If one leg is voided, you may still qualify, but usually for a reduced bonus.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what happens to a multi bet when one game is postponed is essential for every sports bettor. While a postponed game won’t usually void your entire bet, it affects odds and payouts. Always read your bookmaker’s rules, follow sports news for updates, and structure your multi-bets with awareness of external risks. That way, you can protect your stake and improve your overall betting strategy.
