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Ultimate Guide on Betting on the Tour de France

Ultimate Guide on Betting on the Tour de France

The Tour de France is a spectacle to behold. This legendary 23-day cycling event, held in July, features a 21-stage journey across diverse French landscapes. Athletes strive to outperform each other by tapping into different skills, multiple strategies, and resilience to overcome challenging or unpredictable conditions. Here is some good news if you are eagerly waiting for the 2025 Tour de France edition: you can now bet on riders, stages, props, and in-race dynamics through regulated platforms like DraftKings. 

NXTbets is a leading partner for US sports fans and bettors. Whether you are a novice or an experienced bettor, our comprehensive resources and clear, actionable strategies can help you make informed betting decisions for successful outcomes. This guide discusses detailed aspects of Tour de France betting, ranging from bet types and odd formats to responsible, regulated betting. Find out more below and join the NXTbets community to stay updated.

Tour de France Betting Basics Explained

As you will soon realize (or may have realized), the Tour de France has unique wagers compared to common sports like soccer. This distinction is brought about by the prolonged multi-stage format: it has 21 stages that span 3+ weeks. Fortunately, its unique format is responsible for multiple ever-evolving betting markets. Here is a summary of this special racing competition and its betting markets:

  • Multi-stage structure: Most sports have single events, while the Tour de France involves several day-long stages. Its structure supports diverse bets. Besides standard options like the overall winner and individual stage winner bets, you can narrow down your wagers to minute aspects like the Green Jersey or Yellow Jersey. 
  • Team dynamics: Professional cycling competitions are team-oriented. Riders must collaborate with team members for better results. Tour de France teams use strategies like drafting, pacing, and crash prevention to cushion and support leading riders. Such techniques often influence both stage and race outcomes. 
  • Variable conditions: Tour de France races can be challenging to predict, essentially due to external factors like weather, rider fatigue, and stage terrain. You should stay informed for better results. 
  • Dynamic markets: Tour de France betting odds are adjusted regularly to mirror race developments. Underdogs usually have higher odds during the earlier stages. However, as the race continues, their odds change based on performance outcomes. Be ready to make strategic adjustments for better results. 

The upcoming Tour de France will feature seven flat stages, six mountain stages, six hilly stages, 2 time trials, and a 52,500m elevation gain. For the best picks, use historical data and recent form to establish how riders perform in different stages. You will realize that flat stages favor sprinters, climbers thrive in mountains or hilly landscapes, and time trials benefit specialists. 

Popular Types of Tour de France Bets

You can place several wagers on different stages or aspects. These are made possible by the multiple-stage format, rider skills, and diverse landscapes. Here are the most common Tour de France bet types:

Outright Winner Bet

An outright winner bet predicts the rider who will win the entire Tour and claim the Yellow Jersey. Consider the following tips for better results: 

  • Terrain adaptability: Riders who can excel in different landscapes and stages, including time trials, usually achieve favorable outcomes. 
  • Team support: Strong teams provide vital support to riders navigating challenging landscapes and weather conditions, fostering better outcomes. 
  • Versatility: Favor participants with all-around abilities. Riders with high endurance, excellent climbing skills, and time trial excellence are top contenders.

Stage Winner Bets

A stage winner bet predicts the top rider in a given stage. Betting strategies vary depending on the particular stage, as explained below: 

  • Flat stages: Stages with zero or relatively less elevation favor sprinters. Riders like Jasper Philipsen often thrive in such stages. 
  • Mountain stages: Stages with elevated routes, like stage 15, require skilled suit climbers like Pogacar.
  • Breakaway opportunities: Breakaways are relatively common in the early stages. Most riders choose to conserve their energy for a powerful finish in the late stages. 

Jersey Classification Bets

Jersey classification bets encompass the following four categories: 

  • Yellow Jersey: The overall Tour de France leader earns the Yellow Jersey. Consider all-around riders when betting on this category, i.e., participants who excel in diverse landscapes and time trials. 
  • Green Jersey: The Green Jersey is often reserved for sprinters. Consider intermediate sprints and stage finishes for informed betting decisions. 
  • Polka Dot Jersey: The Polka Dot Jersey is awarded to top climbers, based on the points they earn from categorized climbs. 
  • White Jersey: The White Jersey is awarded to the top under-26-year-old rider. Analyze the eligible participants’ specialties and historical trends for better outcomes.

Head-to-Head Bets

In head-to-head bets, bettors predict which of two riders will outperform the other at the end of the tour or a specific stage. Consider the following factors for strategic bets: 

  • Recent form: Compare both riders’ performance results in recent or pre-Tour races, such as Critérium du Dauphiné. 
  • Team strength: Riders from stronger or more organized teams can easily manage challenging conditions. 
  • Stage suitability: Consider every rider’s stage prowess. This is particularly important in stage-related head-to-head bets.

Understanding Tour de France Betting Odds

Odds represent the likelihood of a particular outcome. They are often set and adjusted by bookmakers based on several factors, such as market trends, betting patterns, rider forms, and historical results. Your platform’s betting odds determine your Tour de France wagering payout.

Decimal, Fractional, and Moneyline Odds Explained

Betting odds can either be fractional, decimal, or moneyline, depending on your platform and region. Below is a brief description of these three standard formats: 

  • Moneyline: Moneyline odds are primarily used in the United States. They can either be negative (-) or positive (+). A negative value represents favorites, while positive values are reserved for underdogs. For example, +150 Tour de France odds mean you should place a $100 bet to win $150. Conversely, -150 requires you to risk $150 to make $100 in profits. 
  • Fractional: Fractional odds are common in the UK. 4/3 Tour de France odds mean you will win $4 (plus your stake) if you bet $3. 
  • Decimal: Decimal odds are used in several European states. To determine your total return (plus stake), multiply the odds by your bet amount. For example, a $10 stake on 3.00 odds amounts to $30 ($20 profit + your stake). 

Understanding your platform’s betting odds formats and values can help you assess risks or potential bet rewards. It is also crucial for identifying value bets. 

Effective Strategies for Betting on the Tour de France

You should be strategic when betting on Tour de France outcomes. For informed decision-making, research teams and cyclists evaluate course and stage profiles, monitor weather and race conditions, and take advantage of live betting opportunities. Below is a detailed exploration:

Researching Cyclists and Teams

In-depth research is among the cornerstones of successful betting. Focus on the following areas for informed predictions: 

  • Recent form: Analyze performance results from recent races to establish rider form. For example, before betting on the 2025 Tour, check riders’ performance in pre-tournament events like the Giro d’Italia or Tour de Romandie. 
  • Team strength: Besides individual skills, a player’s team also influences their performance outcomes. For example, riders from skilled, supportive teams usually excel in challenging landscapes.
  • Historical performance: Identify every rider’s favorite landscapes or stages by analyzing historical performance. Some riders like Vingegaard heavily excel in high-altitude stages or landscapes.

Besides the above strategies, review injury reports and obtain the latest insights. A rider’s injury report will help you understand their form, while the latest insights are crucial for informed decision-making. 

Evaluating Course and Stage Profiles

Consider the route or specific terrain before betting on the Tour de France. You can tailor your picks and predictions as follows: 

  • Flat terrains: Stages like Amiens-Cambrai have minimal elevation. Prioritize riders with excellent sprinting skills when wagering on them. 
  • Mountains/hilly routes: Bet on riders who can climb effortlessly when betting on routes like Evaux-les-Bains and Le Lioran. 
  • Time Trials: Specialists like Remco Evenepoel thrive here. 

For better wagering outcomes on the upcoming Tour de France competition, study the routes and what the 52,500m elevation gain means.

Monitoring Weather and Race Conditions

Weather conditions affect cycling outcomes in different ways. Below are a few conditions and their potential impacts on Tour de France races or riders: 

  • Rain: Riders are likely to crash when it rains. Only those with excellent bike-handling skills survive or excel during rainy weather. 
  • Heat: Riders experience increased dehydration during hot weather conditions, which may lead to energy loss and fatigue. Prioritize specialists with high endurance and winning hydration techniques when betting. 
  • Wind: Tour de France participants often draft (by staying close) to save energy. However, crosswinds can easily split them. Identify and bet on well-positioned teams during windy conditions. 

To anticipate future upsets, monitor relevant forecasts during crucial stages like the Alps or the Pyrenees.

Leveraging Live Betting Opportunities

Platforms like DraftKings offer live betting markets for various sports, including cycling events like the Tour de France. Therefore: 

  • Explore live bets: Take advantage of momentum changes, real-time odds, and play-by-play updates by placing in-game wagers. 
  • Hedge your bets: You can minimize losses by making opposite bets on a single event. However, be careful not to exceed your betting or bankroll limits. 
  • Capitalize on shifts: Identify and cash in on performance upsets. For example, a specialist who breaks away in stages with rough/hilly terrains can be a good pick.

You can only spot and leverage the betting opportunities above by following the race. Stay safe by using supported live-streaming sites to monitor or identify player fatigue, team tactics, and breakaways.

Common Betting Mistakes to Avoid

Mistakes are common, especially for beginners. However, some can be costly. Avoid the following errors for enhanced betting success: 

  • Betting emotionally: All your Tour de France wagers should be based on comprehensive research and statistical analysis. Do not bet on your favorite rider without analyzing their form or the provided odds. 
  • Ignoring team dynamics: Teams influence individual rider performance. Overlooking the strength or contribution of participating teams can make you underestimate crucial factors, leading to unfavorable outcomes. 
  • Overlooking recent trends: Have the latest news, updates, and insights at your fingertips. Do not fail to consider riders’ pre-Tour performance results as you make your bets.
  • Over-betting: While stage-specific bets are usually lucrative, you can easily exceed your budget by wagering on every stage. Instead, identify and bet on relatively sure or high-confidence markets like stage winner and head-to-head bets. 
  • Chasing losses: Do not place multiple emotion-driven bets or abnormally increase your stake to recover lost bets. Instead, have and stick to a preset budget and limit yourself to data-driven strategies.

Tour de France Betting Tips from Experts

Bettors obtain valuable experience or critical skills with time. You can refine your approach or enhance your betting skills by learning from betting experts or seasoned bettors. Below are a few tips commonly used by experts: 

  • Bet early for value: Underdogs like Matteo Jorgenson typically have higher/better odds in the early stages, which shorten during the tour or as it gets closer. 
  • Focus on stage-specific bets: Without ignoring factors like rider form and historical performance stats, prioritize sprinters in flat terrains and climbers in hilly/mountainous stages.
  • Cash in on time trials: Wager on specialists like Evenepoel during time trials (stages 7 and 18). 
  • Use historical stats: Do not ignore past performance results and trends. For example, historical stats show that the rider with the Yellow Jersey after Stage 10 usually wins, while breakaway performances are common in medium-length stages. 
  • Balance pre-match and live bets: While early bets have longer odds, live bets depend on changes in in-game dynamics like momentum shifts. Know when to place both. 

Lastly, experts understand that betting should be an enjoyable pastime, which calls for responsible betting practices. Do not prioritize betting over your daily responsibilities or spend more than you can afford.

Legal and Responsible Tour de France Betting

For a sustainable experience, you should wager legally and practice responsible gaming. Here are a few essential tips: 

  • Use licensed platforms: Confirm if your region legalizes gambling. If it does, only use licensed, reputable platforms like Bet365 or DraftKings to bet on Tour de France outcomes, races, or stages. Remember, regulations vary globally. Therefore, it’s important to check local laws. 
  • Embrace safe gaming practices: Do not overindulge in betting. Play responsibly, regulate yourself, and maintain control by setting time and budget limits. 
  • Recognize warning signs: Monitor and address signs of problematic gambling, like chasing losses and betting beyond your means. Platforms like DraftKings have a self-exclusion feature, which allows you to avoid engaging in betting activities for some time. 

Besides self-exclusion, most regulated platforms have tools like time and deposit limits, which you should use for responsible gameplay. At NXTbets, we commit to helping bettors gamble responsibly. Check out our responsible gaming page to learn more.

Best Online Platforms for Tour de France Betting

Always use regulated platforms when betting on Tour de France races for enhanced safety, user protection, and fair play. Prioritize options with intuitive/ mobile-friendly displays, reliable transaction methods, enhanced safety features, 24/7 customer support, and diverse betting markets. Here are a few excellent options: 

  • DraftKingsDraftKings is a leading betting platform in the US. It is widely recognized for its superb user experience, reliable transaction methods, and responsible gambling tools. Its betting markets, such as outright, stage, and head-to-head bets, cater to diverse user preferences or risk profiles.
  • Bet365Bet365 is famous for its competitive odds, extensive markets, and lucrative bonuses. The user-friendly interface and live updates make betting on its extensive Tour de France markets more enjoyable. 

Other top platforms with Tour de France markets include Unibet and Betway. Always maximize your winning potential or betting outcomes by using relevant in-app tools and claiming bonuses and promotions.

Tour de France Betting Predictions

The 2025 Tour de France will commence on 5th July in Lille and end on 27th July at Champs-Élysées, Paris. It will feature fierce competition among top riders and underdogs, creating multiple betting opportunities. Here are a few key riders worth watching out for:

  • Tadej Pogacar: This UAE Team Emirates rider dominated the 2024 Tour de France, earning the Yellow Jersey and six stage wins. He is a relatively safe heavy-favorite pick with short odds. 
  • Jonas Vingegaard: Jonas is a proven two-time champion with a strong team. He can make a great alternative (overall winner bet) in case Pogacar doesn’t win. 
  • Matteo Jorgenson: Owing to his 2024 8th-position finish and Paris-Nice Victory, Jorgenson is an underdog with high upset potential. He is worth watching. 

For White Jersey bets, consider young riders like Evenepoel and Rodríguez. Treat the above predictions as suggestions: Your final picks and bet preferences should be based on in-depth analyses.

Conclusion: Enhancing Your Tour de France Betting with NXTbets

Wagering on Tour de France riders, stages, and outcomes can be exciting. However, bettors must make informed decisions and accurate predictions for successful outcomes. This often requires extensive rider research, stage analysis, odd mastery, and zero/minimal mistakes. NXTbets offers comprehensive data, expert insights, prompt updates, and detailed guides to support your wagering decisions and overall betting journey. 

Subscribe to our newsletter today to join the NXTbets community. Members enjoy winning betting tips, game-changing updates, and tailored, exclusive offers. Do not miss out; let us help you build a winning strategy today and bet confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No. Unfortunately, gambling laws differ by region. Sportsbooks also have varying betting markets – some do not offer markets on niche competitions like the Tour de France. Bet safely by verifying local/applicable regulations and using licensed platforms like Bet365.

 

Beginners should focus on simple or relatively straightforward wagers like outright winners or head-to-head bets.

Yes. You can explore several wagers across different markets for a single race. For example, depending on the sportsbook, you can place outright winner, stage, and jersey winner bets on an upcoming race.

For live bettors, odds often change to reflect rider performance, trends, and in-game dynamics such as injuries. Smaller/shorter odds signify increased confidence in a particular rider.

If you can track and leverage in-game dynamics or momentum changes, live betting on Tour de France races can be lucrative. However, if you rely on long-term betting strategies, stick to pre-match betting.

Riders enjoy tactical support, protection, and pacing from their team members. These often impact performance outcomes and, by extension, overall betting results.

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