You don't need to bet to enjoy racing, and plenty of racegoers never do. If you do bet, it should be for fun, with money you can afford to lose. Irish Horse Racing doesn't take bets, and nothing on this site is betting advice.
18+ only
You must be 18 or over to bet in Ireland and the UK.
Staying in control
- Set a budget before you start, and stop when it's gone.
- Never chase losses or borrow to bet.
- Decide how much time you'll spend, and take breaks.
- Don't bet when you're upset, stressed or have been drinking.
- Licensed bookmakers let you set deposit limits, take a time-out or exclude yourself. Look for "safer gambling" or "responsible gambling" in your account settings.
Signs it might be a problem
Betting more than you meant to, hiding it from people close to you, borrowing money to gamble, or feeling anxious when you're not betting are all signs to talk to someone.
Free, confidential help
- Ireland: GamblingCare.ie, 1800 936 725, 24 hours a day. gamblingcare.ie
- Northern Ireland and the UK: the National Gambling Helpline run by GamCare, 0808 8020 133, 24 hours a day. gamcare.org.uk
- Gamblers Anonymous Ireland: gamblersanonymous.ie
- The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland lists more support services.
If you're worried about someone else's gambling, these services help families and friends too.