Online Betting Ontario

Welcome to Online Betting Ontario, your resource for all things related to online betting in Ontario. This website aims to provide you with valuable information to enhance your betting experience in the province. We cover a variety of topics; from the factors we consider when recommending sportsbooks to the most popular sports and betting markets.

Best Ontario Betting Sites

• BetMGM Review
  Exciting Betting Features

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  BetMGM

  8.8/ 10

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• BetRivers Review
  Thrilling Sportsbook and Casino Fusion

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  BetRivers

  8.7/ 10

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• Sports Interaction Review
  100% Canadian Focused

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  Sports Interaction

  8.5/ 10

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• Betway Review
  Diverse Bets & Trusted Platform

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  Betway

  8.4/ 10

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• Bet365 Review
  Great Betting Options

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  Bet365

  8/ 10

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• Bet99 Review
  Wide Range of Betting Options

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  Bet99

  8/ 10

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• BetVictor Review
  Quick Payment Processing

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  BetVictor

  8/ 10

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• PowerPlay Review
  Competitive Odds, Extensive Sports Coverage

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  PowerPlay

  8/ 10

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• Unibet Review
  Diverse bets, top-tier experience

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  Unibet

  8/ 10

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• TonyBet Review
  Comprehensive Betting Experience

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  TonyBet

  8/ 10

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• Pinnacle Review
  Diverse Betting Options

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  Pinnacle

  8/ 10

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• NEO.bet Review
  Seamless Betting, Top Security

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  NEO.bet

  8/ 10

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• Rivalry Review
  Canada’s Premier Esports Bet-Hub

  Must be 19+ to participate, T&Cs apply, Play responsibly: connexontario.ca
  Rivalry

  8/ 10

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Best Ontario Sportsbooks – A Closer Look

Now, let’s take a look into each of the top betting sites in Ontario. We’ll provide you with comprehensive insights about each sportsbook. From the range of available betting markets to the quality of odds, payment methods, strengths and weakness, betting features and overall user experience, we’ll cover all the essential aspects you need to consider.

Bet99 Ontario

Bet99 is a Canadian-focused sports betting site, endorsed by well-known sports personalities and boasting a Kahnawake Gaming Commission license. Established just a few years ago, Bet99 has quickly risen to prominence in the Canadian market, offering a user-friendly interface, a vast sportsbook, and a dedicated mobile site. While there is no dedicated app yet, Bet99’s mobile site is compatible with various devices. The new good news is that we have been informed that Bet99 is working to launch an app. The brand sets itself apart with its extensive coverage of Canadian sports and a wide variety of betting markets.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Interac e-Transfer deposits	Limited to Canada	In-play betting
Canadian-centric sportsbook	No live streaming	Canadian sports coverage
User-friendly interface	Outdated branding	Diverse betting markets
Multiple deposit options	Limited mobile experience	Abundant player props
		Educational resources

Bet99 is a rapidly growing sports betting site tailored for Canadian bettors. With a diverse sportsbook that includes popular and niche markets and seamless deposit options, Bet99 caters to various preferences. Although the brand lacks a dedicated app and live streaming features, its strengths far outweigh these minor shortcomings. Bet99’s commitment to providing a comprehensive betting experience makes it a top choice for Canadian sports enthusiasts.

BetMGM Ontario

BetMGM, a collaboration between MGM Resorts International and Entain, is a renowned online sportsbook providing a comprehensive betting experience. Licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, it launched in April 2022 and has since expanded its partnership with the NHL into Canada. BetMGM offers a user-friendly platform, available on both website and app for various devices, setting itself apart with unique features like Edit My Bet and Easy Parlay.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
User-friendly platform	Limited geographical availability	Cash-out option
Extensive sports and markets	Wagering requirements	Bet Builder tool
Competitive odds		In-play betting
Unique features available		Edit My Bet and Easy Parlay

BetMGM stands out as a reputable sportsbook offering a user-friendly platform, an extensive range of sports and markets, and competitive odds. The brand’s unique features, such as Edit My Bet and Easy Parlay, enhance the betting experience. However, its limited availability and wagering requirements may be drawbacks for some users. Overall, BetMGM is the ultimate destination for a comprehensive betting experience.

BetRivers Ontario

BetRivers, a trusted sportsbook of Rush Street Interactive, made its entry into Ontario’s iGaming market in April 2022. Boasting a combination of online casino and sportsbook, BetRivers offers a strong user-experience through its desktop and mobile app, available on Android and iOS devices. The platform stands out with its iRush rewards program, live sports betting, and early cash out feature.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Comprehensive betting menu	Only available in Ontario	Live betting
iRush rewards program	Limited cashout methods	Early cash out
Live sports betting	Laggy site	Live streaming
Supports Interac and PayPal	Support not 24/7	Same-game parlays
Strong user-experience		Boosted odds/betting insurance

BetRivers is a solid betting platform that sports enthusiasts in Ontario should consider adding to their roster. Offering a wide variety of sports and betting markets, it provides a seamless experience through its intuitive desktop site and mobile app. Although it has some limitations, such as availability only in Ontario and limited cashout methods, BetRivers excels with its iRush rewards program, live betting, and streaming features.

BetVictor Ontario

BetVictor, a seasoned player in the bookmaking industry since the 1940s, has evolved to become a major global sportsbook. Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, BetVictor entered Ontario’s regulated iGaming market on September 27, 2022. The platform offers a user-friendly interface with native mobile apps for iOS and Android devices, featuring a wide range of sports, markets, and innovative features like Bet Builder and live PGA Tour streaming.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
iGaming certified	Limited phone support	Live betting
Mobile app available	Few player rewards	Live streaming
Extensive sports and markets	No loyalty program	Early cash out
Solid live betting options	UK-focused	Quick bet
Live PGA Tour streaming		Bet Builder

BetVictor has become a well-known and trusted name in the online sports betting world, offering a modern interface, a variety of sports, and innovative features. Despite some weaknesses, such as limited phone support and few player rewards, the platform provides a great overall user experience. BetVictor’s strengths lie in its key features, such as the Bet Builder, live streaming, and early cash-out options, making it a popular choice for both new and experienced bettors.

Bet365 Ontario

Bet365, a leading bookmaker in the global market, has been offering a top-tier betting experience to Canadians for years. With a recent license from the AGCO and iGaming Ontario, bet365 has cemented its presence in the Ontario market, providing an extensive range of betting markets, competitive odds, and a user-friendly mobile app for iOS and Android devices. The platform’s live streaming and live betting features, along with a solid selection of banking options, make it a popular choice for bettors in Canada.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Extensive betting market coverage	No phone support	Live betting and streaming
Competitive odds across sports	No loyalty program	One-wallet system for ease of use
Efficient 24/7 customer support	Cashout settlements could be higher	Bet Builder for custom bets
Swift, reliable banking options	Account restrictions for winning bettors	Top-notch mobile experience
Robust live betting platform

Bet365 is a premier sportsbook in the Canadian iGaming market, known for its well-rounded platform, competitive odds, and impressive mobile app. With a focus on security and user experience, bet365 offers a wide range of betting options, including live betting and streaming, while ensuring swift payouts and responsive customer support. Licensed by the AGCO and iGaming Ontario, bet365 provides a safe and enjoyable betting experience for Ontarians and Canadians alike.

Sports Interaction Ontario

Sports Interaction, rooted in Canada’s Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, is Ontario’s premier online sportsbook and casino dedicated to Canadian sports enthusiasts. Pioneering its kind in the country, it offers vast betting options for both global and local events, from Super Bowl to NHL. With a live casino featuring real dealers, it promises an enriched gaming experience. Coupled with 24/7 customer support, the SIA Insights section arms players with game previews, betting guides, and insights.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Sleek, User-Friendly Design	Limited Deposit Methods	Pinata Bets
Extensive Sportsbook Range	No Cryptocurrency Option	Real-time Live Experience
Dynamic Live Betting	Limited Alternative Banking	Detailed Player Props
Informative SIA Insights	Closed Loop Withdrawal Policy	Secure Cash Out
Robust 24/7 Support	Lack of International Payment Cards	Mobile Betting Excellence

Sports Interaction goes beyond traditional sports, showcasing options for boxing, e-sports, and entertainment events. The immersive casino, filled with slots, card, and table games, caters to a holistic gambling need. With easy navigation across devices and enriching features like “SIA Insights”, it ensures a seamless user journey. While there’s scope for more diverse banking methods, its commitment to security, service, and responsible gaming sets it apart.

Betway Ontario

Betway has rapidly established its position as a significant player in the sports betting realm, bringing its international prowess to Canada, particularly Ontario. As a brand with powerful affiliations in sports, evidenced by partnerships with English Premier League giants, Betway’s presence is undeniable. Now, regulated by the AGCO, Ontarians can experience Betway’s world-class sportsbook offerings. This platform boasts of an easy-to-use website, a sleek mobile app, and a plethora of betting options for both rookies and experts.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Premier sports partnerships	Limited niche sports	Betway Bet Builder
Intuitive website design	Restrictive live streaming	Enhanced odds offers
Diverse betting options	No cryptocurrency option	Comprehensive live betting
Triple licensing trust	Lengthy withdrawal process	Cash-out flexibility
Robust customer support	Cumbersome sign-up	Diverse mobile app features

As a subsidiary of the Super Group global technology company, Betway doesn’t just promise a thrilling betting experience; it assures one rooted in values of authenticity, responsibility, and utmost transparency. Their commitment is reflected not only in the vast array of betting opportunities but also in their dedication to ensuring a responsible betting environment.

Betsafe Ontario

In February 2023, Ontario’s sports betting landscape was enhanced by the entry of Betsafe. Hailing from a lineage of expertise with its parent company, the Swedish powerhouse Betsson, Betsafe brings along a rich legacy of 15 years. Holding a legitimate license from Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission, the platform showcases its prowess with a wide spectrum of sports events. From the dynamic world of NBA to the exhilarating NHL, Betsafe is tailored for enthusiasts who yearn for variety. Moreover, their sleek mobile application, crafted with precision, offers a fluid navigation experience even for a novice.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Comprehensive Customer Support	Limited Withdrawal Methods	Live Streaming Access
Intuitive Mobile App	No Desktop Version	Dynamic Live Betting
Diverse Sports Options	Complex Verification Process	Early Cash-Out Option
Fully Licensed & Regulated	Restricted eSport Coverage	Casino & Poker Platforms

Betsafe is not just a sportsbook; it’s a holistic betting ecosystem. Those who cherish a dynamic betting journey can explore Betsafe’s live in-play section, enriched by graphical displays and a cache of in-game stats. While their sports coverage is commendable, Betsafe’s foray into the casino realm is equally laudable. Housing over 2,000 games, from classic table games to thrilling slots, they cater to diverse gaming tastes. However, there are areas where Betsafe could fine-tune its offerings, like an expansion of its withdrawal methods and more streamlined verification.

PowerPlay Ontario

PowerPlay stormed onto the scene in 2018 under the banner of Deck Entertainment B.V. and Trillium Ventures Limited. It rapidly positioned itself at the forefront of Canadian sports betting. Beyond the usual suspects like hockey, football, and basketball, PowerPlay caters to a wide array of global sporting events. Their commitment to customer delight and responsible gaming has been a cornerstone of their success. Adding to this robust portfolio, they’ve teamed up with renowned casino providers like Games Global and Microgaming. This partnership offers bettors an extensive array of casino games ranging from live casino sessions to classic table games.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Extensive sports coverage	No dedicated mobile app	Cash-out capability
User-friendly interface	Limited cash-out options	Real-time live betting
24/7 customer support	Absent bet builders	24/7 live chat support
Competitive odds	Market offerings could expand	Comprehensive customer assistance
Fully licensed & regulated	Newly regulated, limited history	Mobile-optimized platform

PowerPlay’s journey in the Canadian betting landscape is nothing short of remarkable. Notably, their sportsbook platform offers a compelling range of features, from live casino games to sports betting markets, catering to both local and international events. Their platform even extends to novelty bets on politics and competitions, UFC special bets, and virtual sports betting. Some minor gripes persist, such as the absence of a dedicated mobile app and certain site-wide features like bet builders. However, its range of offerings and commitment to user satisfaction make it an impressive presence in the Canadian betting domain.

Unibet Ontario

Unibet traces its roots to a Swedish dorm room, where founder Anders Ström’s love for stats and horse racing initiated its journey. From humble beginnings to a global presence, Unibet has shown commitment to knowledge sharing and informed betting. Keen bettors across Ontario now relish its diverse offerings, thanks to a mobile-friendly interface and an engaging casino platform.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Mobile Live Streaming	Limited Banking Options	Live Betting
30+ Sports Markets	Dated Website Design	Live Streaming
‘Starting Soon’ Feature	No 24/7 Live Chat	Cash-out Option
Licensed in Ontario	No Crypto Payments	Bet Builder Tool
Robust Mobile App	Limited Casino Variety

Expanding beyond its Swedish origin, Unibet now stands tall in the sports betting realm. The brand remains true to its founder’s vision, emphasizing well-informed bets and diverse gaming experiences. Despite global recognition, Unibet’s recent foray into Ontario has amplified its commitment to adapting to changing market landscapes. From universal sports coverage to the excitement of its casino offerings, Unibet is not just a platform—it’s a legacy.

TonyBet Ontario

TonyBet, a renowned name in the global betting realm, has established a strong presence in Ontario. Originally known as OmniBet, the rebranding in 2009 by poker superstar Antanas Guoga (Tony G) propelled it into limelight. A platform boasting transparency and commitment, TonyBet ensures users are always satisfied, providing a diversified betting menu for both niche and mainstream sports lovers. Recognized for high security standards, TonyBet mandates identity verification for user safety and adheres to strict data storage protocols.

Strengths	Weaknesses	Features
Diverse Betting Options	Inconsistent Customer Support	Live and Pre-Match Betting
Extensive Sports Range	Limited Geographic Availability	Combo Betting
Secure Banking Methods	No Dedicated Mobile App	Exclusive Forecasts/Events
Licensed and Regulated	Slower Response Times	Niche Sports Including eSports

TonyBet’s nearly two-decade-long journey in the betting industry has made it a credible and reliable platform for both novices and seasoned bettors. With an easy-to-navigate interface across devices, users can indulge in over 45 sports. TonyBet’s live betting amplifies the thrill. While it is a licensed entity ensuring user safety, there are some minor hiccups. Customer support is round-the-clock but may lack in consistent quality, and the absence of a mobile app can be a turnoff for some.

How we Rate Ontario Sports Betting Sites?

As a trusted resource for online sports betting enthusiasts in Ontario, our top priority is to provide accurate and reliable recommendations for sportsbooks that cater to your needs. To ensure we only endorse the best options, we rigorously evaluate each sportsbook based on a set of essential factors.

Our thorough evaluation process helps us guarantee that the sportsbooks we recommend are not only safe and reliable but also offer an exceptional betting experience. Here are the 10 key factors we consider when assessing a sportsbook before recommending it:

• License: Ensure that the sportsbook is licensed and regulated by appropriate authorities, such as the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario.
• Reputation and Security: The sportsbook should have a solid reputation for being trustworthy and secure, with a history of fair play and prompt payouts.
• Variety of Betting Markets: A good sportsbook should offer a wide range of sports and events to bet on, as well as diverse betting options such as moneylines, point spreads, and prop bets.
• Competitive Odds: The sportsbook should consistently provide competitive odds, ensuring that bettors have the potential for long-term value when placing their wagers.
• User Interface and Ease of Use: The website or mobile app should be easy to navigate, with a clean design and user-friendly features that make placing bets and managing accounts simple.
• Payment Options: A variety of secure and convenient deposit and withdrawal methods should be available, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
• Customer Support: Efficient and responsive customer support is crucial, with multiple channels available for communication, such as live chat, email, and phone.
• Live Betting and Streaming: The sportsbook should offer in-play betting options and, ideally, live streaming of events to provide an engaging and immersive experience.
• Betting Limits and Responsible Gambling: A responsible sportsbook should have clear betting limits and provide tools to help users manage their gambling activities, such as setting deposit limits and self-exclusion options.

Betting Features Available in Sportsbooks in Ontario

For sport betting Ontario enthusiasts, selecting the right sportsbook can greatly impact your overall betting experience. It’s crucial to consider various features that contribute to a platform’s competitiveness and ability to provide an exceptional experience. In this section, we’ll discuss the key factors you should take into account when choosing a sportsbook, ensuring you make an informed decision and enjoy a top-notch betting experience.

• Live Streaming: A great sportsbook should provide live streaming services for various sports events, allowing users to watch the action in real-time, which can significantly enhance their engagement and overall experience.
• Cash Out: This feature enables bettors to settle their bets early, either partially or fully, giving them more control over their wagers and the opportunity to secure a profit or minimize potential losses.
• Stats and Info: Access to comprehensive statistics and information on teams, players, and events can be invaluable when making informed betting decisions, helping users to place well-researched wagers.
• Same Game Parlays: This feature allows bettors to combine multiple selections from a single event into a single bet, offering a chance for higher returns and adding an extra layer of excitement to the betting process.
• Bet Builders: A bet builder feature enables users to create custom bets by combining various markets and selections, providing a more personalized and tailored betting experience.
• Live Betting: In-play betting options allow users to place wagers on events as they unfold, offering dynamic odds and the opportunity to capitalize on the ever-changing circumstances within a game or match.

Legal Betting in Ontario

Sports betting in Ontario has undergone significant changes, these are the most significant event:

• Bill C-218: The Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act was passed by the Canadian Parliament in June 2021, amending the Criminal Code to legalize single-event sports betting across Canada.
• August 27, 2021: Single-event sports betting officially became legal in Ontario and throughout Canada, allowing provinces and territories to regulate this form of betting within their jurisdiction.

Not everyone can operate in Ontario, to obtain a license for operating a sportsbook, bookmakers must meet specific requirements set by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario (IGO).

• Compliance with AGCO and IGO regulations.
• Adherence to responsible gambling practices and player protection measures.
• Proof of financial stability and integrity.
• Implementation of secure and reliable technology systems for betting operations.

Bettors should also meet some requirements:

• Be at least 19 years of age.
• Provide proof of identity and age when registering with a sportsbook.
• Engage in responsible gambling practices and utilize available tools, such as setting deposit limits and self-exclusion options.

Legal Betting in Ontario FAQs

• When did single-event sports betting become legal in Ontario?

  Single-event sports betting became legal in Ontario on August 27, 2021, following the passage of Bill C-218. 

• Who regulates sports betting in Ontario?

  The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario (IGO) are responsible for regulating sports betting in the province.

• What is the minimum age for Ontario sports bet?

  The minimum age for sports betting in Ontario is 19 years. 

• Can offshore sportsbooks operate legally in Ontario bet?

  Yes, offshore sportsbooks can operate legally in Ontario, provided they obtain the necessary licenses from the AGCO and IGO.

The legalization of sports betting in Ontario has transformed the landscape for bettors, offering greater variety and flexibility in wagering options. By adhering to the established regulations and user requirements, bettors can now enjoy a safe and regulated betting environment in the province.

Single Betting vs Parlays

Single betting, also known as single-event sports betting, refers to placing a wager on the outcome of a single sports event or game. It became legal in Ontario and throughout Canada on August 27, 2021, when Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, came into effect. This legislative change amended the Criminal Code, allowing provinces and territories to regulate single-event sports betting within their jurisdiction.

Before the legalization of single betting, Canadians were limited to wagering on parlays through platforms like the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s (OLG) Proline. A parlay bet involves combining multiple bets into a single wager, requiring all selected events to win for the bettor to receive a payout. While parlays can offer higher potential returns, they come with increased risk due to the need for all selections to be correct.

Following the legalization of single-event sports betting, the OLG introduced Proline+, an updated version of their previous platform, offering single-event wagering alongside the traditional parlay betting options. This change provided bettors with a greater variety of betting options and increased flexibility in their wagering strategies.

The legalization of single-event sports betting also opened the door for offshore bookmakers to obtain licenses and operate legally within Ontario. This development has led to increased competition in the sports betting market, benefiting bettors with more choices, better odds, and a wider range of betting options.

How to Start Betting in Ontario?

The advent of online betting has made it easier than ever for Ontarians to engage in sports wagering through various platforms, whether using a mobile device, tablet, or computer. Betting enthusiasts can place single-event bets at legal Ontario sports betting sites, Great Canadian Sportsbooks, sports betting kiosks in participating casinos, or OLG lottery terminals.

Popular Sports to Bet on in Ontario

Sports betting in Ontario covers a diverse range of popular sports, appealing to a wide variety of fans and bettors. The excitement of supporting local teams and engaging with global competitions has resulted in a thriving betting community within the province. Let’s explore the most popular sports to bet on in Ontario, delving into the unique appeal of each and the various betting opportunities they present.

Hockey: As the national sport of Canada, hockey is immensely popular among sports bettors in Ontario. The NHL, featuring the beloved Toronto Maple Leafs, is the primary focus for many hockey enthusiasts, with bets commonly placed on game outcomes, goal totals, and player performance.

Basketball: Basketball has seen a surge in popularity in Ontario, particularly with the success of the Toronto Raptors. Betting on NBA games, including point spreads, moneylines, and Over/Under totals, is a popular pastime for many sports bettors in the province.

Canadian Football: The Canadian Football League (CFL) holds a special place in the hearts of Canadian sports fans. The league, featuring the Toronto Argonauts, offers a unique twist on traditional football, attracting bets on game outcomes, point spreads, and futures markets.

Soccer: Soccer has a growing fan base in Ontario, with bettors often placing wagers on domestic leagues like the Canadian Premier League (CPL) and Major League Soccer (MLS), as well as international competitions such as the English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and FIFA World Cup.

Baseball: Baseball is another popular sport for Ontario bettors, with the Toronto Blue Jays being the sole Canadian MLB team. Fans typically bet on moneylines, run lines, and Over/Under totals throughout the season, as well as playoff and World Series outcomes.

Tennis: Tennis enjoys a strong following in Ontario, with major events like the Rogers Cup drawing attention from bettors. Wagers on individual matches, tournament winners, and in-play betting options are popular during Grand Slam events such as Wimbledon, the US Open, the Australian Open, and the French Open.

Golf: Golf attracts a significant amount of betting interest in Ontario, with punters placing bets on major tournaments like the Masters, the US Open, the Open Championship, and the PGA Championship. Typical bets include tournament winners, head-to-head matchups, and prop bets on individual player performances.

These popular sports captivate Ontario’s betting community due to a combination of local team support, national pride, and the excitement of following major international competitions. Each sport offers unique betting opportunities and markets that cater to a diverse range of interests and preferences among sports bettors in the province.

Most Popular Betting Markets

The most popular betting markets often share common characteristics, such as simplicity, excitement, and the potential for attractive returns. Let’s explore some of the most popular betting markets and explain their appeal, with examples to illustrate how odds are related to these markets and betting types.

• Moneyline: Moneyline bets are straightforward wagers on which team will win a particular game or match. Their simplicity and ease of understanding make them popular among bettors. Odds for moneyline bets are directly related to the perceived likelihood of each team winning, with favorites assigned lower odds and underdogs receiving higher odds.
  
  Example: In a hockey game between the Toronto Maple Leafs (-150) and the Ottawa Senators (+130), the Maple Leafs are the favorites, meaning a $150 bet would return $100 if they win. Conversely, a $100 bet on the underdog Senators would return $130 if they emerge victorious.
  
  
• Point Spread: Point spread bets involve handicapping a favored team by a predetermined number of points, leveling the playing field and making the betting outcome more uncertain. This market is popular because it provides excitement and often more attractive odds, as the favorite must win by a certain margin.
  
  Example: In a basketball game with the Toronto Raptors favored by -7.5 points against the New York Knicks, the Raptors must win by 8 points or more for a successful point spread bet. The odds for both teams in this market are typically closer to even money.
  
  
• Over/Under (Totals): Over/Under bets focus on the combined score of both teams in a game, with bettors wagering on whether the total will be over or under a specified number set by oddsmakers. This market is popular because it allows bettors to focus on the game’s scoring dynamics rather than picking a winner.
  
  Example: In a baseball game with an Over/Under of 8.5 runs, bettors can wager on the total combined score being over or under this number. The odds are typically close to even money for both outcomes.
  
  
• Futures: Futures bets involve wagering on the outcome of a future event, such as a team winning a championship or a player receiving an award. These bets are popular for their potential high returns, as odds can vary significantly depending on the perceived likelihood of the event occurring.
  
  Example: Before the start of the NHL season, bettors can place futures bets on which team will win the Stanley Cup, with odds varying based on each team’s perceived strength and chances of winning.
  
  
• Props (Proposition Bets): Prop bets focus on specific events or occurrences within a game that don’t directly relate to the final outcome. These bets are popular for their variety and entertainment value, as they cover aspects such as player performance, team statistics, or unique game events.
  
  Example: In a soccer match, a bettor might wager on a specific player to score the first goal, with odds reflecting the likelihood of that player scoring based on their form and position.

The most popular betting markets appeal to bettors for various reasons, such as simplicity, excitement, and the potential for attractive returns. Odds are related to these markets in terms of the perceived likelihood of the outcome, influencing the potential returns and level of risk associated with each bet type.

Licensed vs. Unlicensed Betting Sites

There are significant differences between licensed and unlicensed betting sites, which can impact the safety, security, and overall betting experience for users. Here are some of the key distinctions between the two:

• Legal Protection: Licensed betting sites operate under the regulations and laws set by the jurisdiction that issued their license. This means that they adhere to strict rules and standards to ensure fairness, transparency, and responsible gambling practices. Unlicensed betting sites, on the other hand, do not follow any legal framework, making it more challenging to ensure the safety and fairness of their operations.
• Security and Trustworthiness: Licensed betting sites are required to implement robust security measures to protect user data and financial transactions. They often use secure encryption technology and have clear privacy policies in place. Unlicensed sites may not prioritize security as highly, which could put your personal and financial information at risk.
• Dispute Resolution: In case of any disputes or issues with your bets, licensed betting sites usually have a clear process for resolution, which often involves an independent third-party organization. Unlicensed betting sites may lack such mechanisms, making it difficult to resolve disputes or recover funds if problems arise.
• Responsible Gambling: Licensed betting sites are required to promote responsible gambling by offering self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and other tools to help bettors manage their gambling habits. Unlicensed sites may not provide these tools or actively encourage responsible gambling.
• Odds and Payouts: Licensed betting sites are more likely to offer fair odds and payouts, as they are subject to regulatory scrutiny and must maintain their reputation to retain their license. Unlicensed sites may offer more enticing odds to attract users, but there’s no guarantee that they will honor those payouts or maintain fair practices.
• Market Access: Licensed betting sites are generally more reliable and offer a wider range of betting markets, as they have established relationships with sports leagues and organizations. Unlicensed sites might have fewer markets or may focus on niche or less popular sports.
• Customer Support: Licensed betting sites typically have dedicated customer support teams to help users with any issues they might encounter. Unlicensed sites may not prioritize customer support, which can lead to a frustrating user experience.
• Payment Methods: Licensed betting sites usually offer a variety of secure and reputable payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Unlicensed sites may have limited or less trustworthy payment options, which could lead to delays or issues with deposits and withdrawals.

Licensed betting sites provide a safer, more secure, and reliable betting experience for users, thanks to the legal framework, security measures, and responsible gambling practices they adhere to.

Unlicensed betting sites, while potentially offering more attractive odds or niche markets, carry a higher risk in terms of security, trustworthiness, and overall user experience.

Ontario Betting Sites FAQs

Let’s address some of the most frequently asked questions about Ontario betting sites. We’ll cover topics such as legality, age requirements, taxation, and single-game betting to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the online betting landscape in the province.

So, let’s dive into these common inquiries and clarify any doubts you may have about sports betting in Ontario.

• Is sports betting legal in Ontario?

  Yes, sports betting is legal in Ontario. The Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, also known as Bill C-218, legalized single-game sports betting across Canada, including Ontario.

• What is the legal age for sports betting in Ontario?

  The legal age for sports betting in Ontario is 19 years old.

• Are there retail sportsbooks in Ontario?

  Yes, there are retail sportsbooks in Ontario, including sports betting kiosks at participating casinos and OLG lottery terminals.

• Can you bet on Ontario-based teams in Ontario?

  Yes, you can bet on Ontario-based teams in Ontario, as long as you are betting through a licensed sportsbook. 

• Do you have to live in Ontario to bet online?

  No, you don’t have to live in Ontario to bet online. Anyone in Canada can register with an Ontario betting site, but you must be physically present in the province to place a bet.

• Do I need to pay taxes on sports betting winnings in Ontario?

  In general, casual bettors are not required to pay taxes on sports betting winnings in Ontario. However, professional gamblers or those who earn a significant portion of their income from betting may need to pay taxes on their winnings.

• How do I know if my bet has been placed?

  After placing a bet with an online sportsbook, you will typically receive a confirmation message or email, and the bet will be added to your account’s bet history or open bets section. Always double-check these sections to ensure your bet has been placed correctly.

• Is single-game betting available in Ontario?

  Yes, single-game betting is available in Ontario. The passage of Bill C-218 in 2021 legalized single-game sports betting across Canada, including Ontario.