Pre-match and in-play betting are two of the most popular ways to engage in wagering—particularly in sports like football, basketball, and baseball, to name a few. While these concepts are often treated as “basic knowledge” in the sports betting industry, the details and benefits of each type are rarely explained. Yet, understanding the value that pre-match and in-play betting provide—both for bettors and operators—is essential.
That’s where accessible, informative content on pre-match and in-play betting becomes more than just helpful—it’s a useful resource in an industry where insights often get lost in the shuffle of sportsbook operations and broader iGaming dynamics.
As a seasoned sportsbook software provider, Altenar compiled a practical comparison between the two betting formats—both of which dominate the volume of bets placed across leagues and events. While some may argue that all betting delivers similar results, the experience between pre-match and in-play can differ greatly for avid sports bettors who’ve spent years placing wagers and refining strategies.
Using football as a leading example, Altenar referenced findings from IBIA.bet’s report, An Optimum Betting Market: A Regulatory, Fiscal & Integrity Assessment, which revealed that over 74% of football wagers were placed on in-play markets—generating an estimated $107 billion in revenue. These figures, based on data from late 2020 through early 2021 with projections through 2025, highlight just how impactful in-play betting has become for operators and bettors alike.
Pre-match betting offers both operators and bettors a distinct experience—affecting timing, decision-making, odds size, and the bookmaker’s margin, among other factors. While emotions often run high during in-play betting, some bettors prefer to make rational decisions in advance. Still, since betting is ultimately a game of chance, many lean toward the excitement and immediacy of in-play options.
With the advantages of both formats providing an equally enjoyable experience, many bettors and operators are increasingly turning to in-play betting—especially as Esports and online wagering continue to expand. With a 74% preference for in-play betting in football, operators that offer this functionality through their sportsbook software provider—such as Altenar—can improve bettor retention and drive higher engagement with their platform.
If you’re looking to learn more about the sports betting industry and everything it has to offer, contact Altenar—a leading sportsbook software provider—for expert insights, reports, data, and actionable knowledge.
