Insider Betting in Sports: Explanation and How to Find Insider Tips
Xenia Luch
17 July 2024
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What is Insider Betting in Sports?
Insider betting is when someone bets on a sports event using exclusive, undisclosed information, known to a select few, that could significantly sway the result. This could be anything from a player’s undisclosed injury to team strategies, giving them an unfair advantage in betting.
How does it work? Think of it like this: betting odds are like a game of guess who? — They’re all about what’s likely to happen. But if the bookie doesn’t know the secret you do, they might get it wrong. That’s your chance to make some cash.
An Example of Insider Betting
Let’s paint a picture. Suppose you have a friend who’s a professional tennis player. One day, he tells you about a shoulder injury that’s been bothering him. This information is known only to a select few — you, the player, and perhaps the coach. Now, that’s some prime insider information! You could use this tip to bet on his opponent in the next match.
It’s important to remember that having insider information doesn’t guarantee a win — it just offers a possible edge.
And sometimes, bookmakers might have their own insider tips, which can make the betting odds seem unusual.
Types of Insider Information in Sports Betting (UK Gambling Commission)
Type of Insider Info | Explanation | Consequences |
Direct Informing | A player knows certain info is off-limits for personal betting or sharing. | Sport’s Governing Body (SGB) steps in; related bets are likely voided. |
Restricted Access Info | Info is leaked by someone with privileged access, like a club employee knowing about a transfer. | Bets are voided; the leaker faces disciplinary action. |
Criminal Activity | Financial gain from knowledge of internal club issues or betting by athlete’s associates on their career. | Complaints to employers/governing bodies; potential legal action. |
Event Manipulation | Deliberate actions by players to alter the event’s outcome, like getting a yellow card on purpose. | Sports authorities and possibly the police get involved; severe penalties. |
What Else Counts as Insider Info?
Insider info isn’t limited to just physical setbacks. Here’s a snapshot of what else falls under the insider info umbrella:
- The collective mood swings and mental readiness
- The state of the pitch or court
- Rain, wind, or scorching heat? Weather can be a silent player
- Disagreements and disputes within a team
- Player or team motivation
Take this scenario: You’re clued into the fact that the stadium’s field is a mess after a torrential rain, information not widely known. Armed with this insight, you could bet on a lower scoreline, predicting that the soggy conditions will slow down the play and make scoring goals a challenge.
Is Match-Fixing Info Insider Info?
Yes. But be wary — real tips on fixed matches are rare. Why? Because match-fixing is illegal and those in the know keep it hush-hush to avoid prison. So, if you hear rumors about a fix, chances are they’re not legit.
Remember, true match-fixing info is hard to come by, and sharing it is a serious crime.
How Scammers Trick You with Insider Info Sales
Beware of online deals selling “insider info” on sports betting. They often claim to have the scoop on fixed matches, but it’s usually a scam.
How do these scams work?
- Scammers promise exclusive match details, asking for payment only if the bet wins. This seems fair and builds trust.
- They hand out supposed insider tips at random. If they guess right, they get paid. If wrong, they move on to the next target.
- Once a scammer wins a bettor’s trust with a lucky guess, they’ll ask for money upfront for the next tip.

Can Footballers Bet on Their Own Transfers?
In short, no. Here’s a real-life cautionary tale: A Premier League defender bet on his own transfer in 2017 and initially won £5,000. However, the bet didn’t stay secret for long. An insider from the betting company told the press about it. Although the player’s name stayed under wraps, the UKGC didn’t let it slide. They canceled the bet and shut down the player’s betting account.
How Can You Find Insider Sports Info?
Scoring insider info in sports is tough. It’s not just about having athlete pals who spill the beans. Here’s a straightforward guide to sniffing out those secrets:
Bookmaker analysts track all sports rumors and news. Even they can’t catch everything, so focus on less popular tournaments with less media attention.
- Keep tabs on every club’s official site in the league.
- Follow the clubs and players on platforms like X and Instagram.
- If you can, also follow the players’ personal connections.
- Stay active on fan forums for the latest whispers and hunches.
Got a tip? Double-check the betting odds. If they’ve shifted a lot recently, the bookies might already be onto it.