In Horse Racing, if a horse is withdrawn just before the race starts, bookmakers apply a Rule 4 Deduction to all winning bets. This compensates for the fact that it is now easier to win the race.
This tool calculates exactly how much will be taken from your payout (pence in the pound or cents in the dollar) based on the odds of the non-runner.
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How Rule 4 Works
The deduction is based on the price of the withdrawn horse at the time of withdrawal. The shorter the odds of the non-runner, the larger the deduction.
- Withdrawn @ 15.0 (14/1): Usually No Deduction (or 5%).
- Withdrawn @ 6.0 (5/1): 15% Deduction.
- Withdrawn @ 2.0 (Evens): 45% Deduction.
Example
You backed a winner to win $100.
Another horse (odds 3.00) was withdrawn.
- Rule 4 Deduction: 30%.
- Calculation: $100 * 30% = $30 deducted.
- New Payout: $70.
This tool helps you avoid the shock of seeing a lower payout than expected in your account history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Rule 4 apply to Ante-Post bets?
No. Ante-Post bets (placed before the final declarations) are usually “All-in, Run or Not.” If a horse withdraws, no Rule 4 is applied to winners, but if you backed the withdrawn horse, you lose your stake.