From the moment Sportingbet opened its doors to players in South Africa, it has been on an upward trajectory. The bookie’s sportsbook offers a large selection of neatly organized pre-match and live sports to bet on, all with competitive odds.
The result, as far as I am concerned, is that it is a betting site that can compete with any other South African brand. This is not something I say lightly, so to prove my point, I have written a comprehensive Sportingbet ZA review.
Pros and Cons
- Pros
- Modern, intuitive design
- Generous welcome bonus for new players
- Nice selection of betting categories
- Top-tier customer support service
- Cons
- Limited selection of banking options
Who Is Sportingbet South Africa Best Suited For?
After an in-depth analysis of Sportingbet, it seems like the bookie is suited for sports bettors. As you will see in a bit, Sportingbet’s sports betting coverage is extensive.
The bookie also offers a lot of markets and excellent odds. There is also a nice variety of betting features, live betting, live streaming, and mobile apps. Unfortunately, the bookie does not offer 24/7 support, so some bettors might find that disappointing.
Sportingbet Sports Betting Coverage

The majority of Sportingbet SA reviews focus on the bookies sportsbook, as they should. Anyone interested in betting on sports will find plenty of options. In terms of the sports you can bet on, here are some the bookie regularly offers:
- American Football
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Boxing
- Chess
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Darts
- Football
- Formula 1
- Golf
- Handball
- Horse Racing
- Ice Hockey
- Motorbikes
- NASCAR
- Rugby
- Ski Jumping
- Snooker
- Table Tennis
- Tennis
- Volleyball
- Alpine Skiing
- Badminton
- Cross Country Skiing
- Motor Sports
- Aussie Rules
- Beach Volleyball
- Biathlon
- Curling
- Floorball
- Futsal
- Gaelic Football
- Pool
- Speedway
- Water Polo
- Gaelic Hurling
- MMA
- MotoGP

As you can see, the sports coverage at Sportingbet is as good as any other betting site. There is no shortage of betting options, and the odds are competitive, regardless of the sport. If you like punting on sports, this bookie is one to consider.
Soccer
Soccer is a popular South African betting market, so it’s not surprising to see Sportingbet provide as many options as it does. Considering it is the most popular sport on the site, the bookie has made it easy to browse the category uninhibited. There are also options that let you view top competitions like the Premier League, UEFA, and Bundesliga, as well as the option to view upcoming events.
In addition, there is a “Coupons” section that lets punters view upcoming matches and a “Live” category to view in-play or upcoming live events. More importantly, bettors will find a substantial number of markets they can avail of. All the popular markets, like regular time, total corners, halftime and full time, are offered.
Tennis
Betting on tennis also ranks high amongst South African bettors, and naturally, Sportingbet takes pride in the betting options and leagues it covers. As it does for soccer betting, bettors can navigate to the competitions section to view a list of available top tournaments. There is also a list of featured events, a calendar of upcoming events, and a live betting section.
In addition to offering an increased number of events, the availability of markets is comparable to other bookies. As expected, they include match winner, total games, and set betting. The primary differences are the odds, media options, and price boost opportunities.
Basketball
Next to soccer and tennis, basketball is the third most popular sport to bet on at Sportingbet. It also includes the option to view a list of featured games and their respective odds. The option to view a list of competitions is available, as is a calendar and live betting section.
The range of competition is excellent and tends to exceed that of other bookies. Bettors can avail of competitions in North America, Europe, and Spain, to name a few. In terms of markets, full game, player points, and player three-pointers are the most popular.
Cricket
Cricket never fails to generate interest at Sportingbet. Subsequently, the bookie places a strong emphasis on top competitions like the T20 International Masters League, West Indies Championship, and Indian Premier League.
Similarly, it places an emphasis on the markets players can avail. However, some matches are limited to outright winner, whereas others offer match betting, total runs, and individual players to score. Likewise, there is a competitions, featured, and calendar section players can avail.
Betting Markets, Odds and Margins
As noted above, the odds at Sportingbet are amongst the best in South Africa. The bookie accomplishes this by offering low margins for many of the markets it offers. Typically, the average margin at Sportingbet is 4.1%, although, for soccer, the margins can be as much as 7% to 9%.
In terms of betting markets, they are as diverse as the sports available. Match result, Double Chance, Both Teams to Score, Total Goals, First Team to Score are just a few of the markets available. Bettors can also avail a Build a Bet feature with competitive odds and margins and price boosts for certain markets.
Sportingbet Live Betting

Along with what almost seems like a never-ending number of live betting options, the Sportingbet live section is a bettor’s dream come true. It delivers a customizable interface with a user-friendly navigational menu that indicates the number of live events players can avail themselves of. The live section also features drop-down menus that display market availability and the respective odds for each.
What I really liked though was the media section and the ability to access a stats centre. The media section provides a variety of information, such as score updates, whereas the stats centre allows me to access a variety of statistical information.
I also liked how easy the live betting section was to use and the various navigational options I had at my disposal. To sum it up, Sportingbet’s live betting section is as good as it gets. I was easily able to navigate without difficulties and had no difficulties during the bet-placing process.
Top Betting Features
If you haven’t already noticed, Sportingbet has a substantial number of betting features. Primarily designed to complement the sports betting experience, they include the following:
Build a Bet
Build a Bet is one of the most popular features of Sportingbet online betting. With the build-a-bet feature, Sportingbet provides the opportunity to add multiple selections to a bet slip. This feature will combine payouts based on the collective odds.
Cash out
If you think your single or multi bet might not materialize, the cash-out feature will let you settle for an amount according to the odds of success. Bettors can also avail of an auto cash-out option that allows them to cash out for a pre-set specific value before the match is active.
Live Streaming
Live streaming is one of the best features punters can avail when live betting at Sportingbet. To access the live streaming services, players simply need to click the “Live” icon, and the stream will automatically open. However, this feature is only available for select sports.
Edit my Bet
The Edit my bet feature is a unique tool that gives punters control over their bets. With this feature, you can add selections, increase your bet, swap selections, or remove a selection entirely. However, this feature can only be availed on bets with unsettled or cash out selections.
How to place a bet at Sportingbet SA

The steps one needs to take to place a bet at Sportingbet SA aren’t complicated. In fact, the entire process from beginning to end is quite simple. It requires you to:
- Use your Sportingbet login details to access your profile.
- Once logged in, navigate to the A-Z sports section to select the sport that interests you.
- Review the available events, markets, and odds.
- Make your selection and enter the amount you want to wager.
- Lastly, click the “Place Bet” button.
Overall, there was nothing complicated about placing a bet at Sportingbet. Even if you haven’t placed a bet in the past, you shouldn’t have a problem. Just follow the steps above, and you’ll be good to go.
Sportingbet Compared to Other Bookmakers
If I am to compare Sportingbet to South African betting sites like Supabets, Gbets, and Hollywoodbets, Sportingbet is by far the better of the three. Whilst its casino may be somewhat underpopulated, its sportsbook, odds, and margins are superb. Likewise, the bookie has an increased number of betting features, and promotionally, it is on par with the others.
Compare Sportingbet with more bookiesWelcome Bonus | Live Betting | Live Streaming | Cashout | Apps | Bonus Percentage | Turnover | ||
R3,000 | - | 10x | ||||||
18+ T&C apply | Play Responsibly | ||||||||
R25 + 50 FS | - | 1x | ||||||
18+ T&C apply | Play Responsibly | ||||||||
R5000 | - | - | 4x | |||||
18+ T&C apply | Play Responsibly | ||||||||
R1,000 | 100% | 6x | ||||||
18+ T&C apply | Play Responsibly |
Mobile Gambling Options – Is There a Sportingbet App?

Sportingbet offers its customers the option to download a mobile app to their iOS or Android device or avail of a mobile betting site. The Android app can be downloaded as a .apk file directly from the bookie’s site or, alternatively, via Google Play.
To download the Sportingbet app, you will need to go to settings and select the unknown sources tab. Similarly, iOS users can download an app to their device directly from the bookmaker’s website, or alternatively, they can download the app via the App Store.
In addition, Sportingbet offers a mobile version that is iOS/Android compatible. The mobile site is a great alternative that offers an equal number of navigational and functionality features. You can bookmark the site, or you can use the web app for faster access.
Registration Process and Account Verification – Step-by-step instructions
Creating a Sportingbet account and fulfilling the account verification process doesn’t require much effort. To create a Sportingbet account, you must:
- Navigate to the Sportingbet website or app.
- Click the register button in the top right-hand corner.
- Provide the bookie with your email address.
- Create an 8 to 20-character password.
- Enter your name, date of birth, national ID, home address, source of funds, and mobile number.
- Certify you’re over 18, and accept the T&Cs.
- Click the “Create my Account” button.
After creating your Sportingbet account, you will have to upload identity documents. To upload documents, navigate to the My Account section. Here, you can click on the “Upload a document” button to upload one of the following:
- Passport
- Driver’s license
- National ID Card
In addition, you will be required to upload a copy of a recent utility bill or bank statement to verify your address. As far as I am concerned, the registration and account verification process is pretty easy. Once I submitted my information, a few clicks was all it took to upload my documents.
Sportingbet Welcome Bonus and Promotions

Sportingbet ZA is inviting all newly registered players to take advantage of its Triple welcome bonus offer. The Triple Welcome Package consists of the following:
- 1st Deposit – 100% sports betting bonus up to R1,000 + 100 Free Spins
- 2nd Deposit – 50% sports betting bonus up to R1,000 + 100 Free Spins
- 3rd Deposit –75% sports betting bonus up to R1,000 + 100 Free Spins
Even though a Sportingbet promo code is not needed for this offer, the bookmaker does require bettors to:
- Navigate to the promotional page via the link above
- Be a first-time depositor located in South Africa over the age of 18.
- Deposit at least R50 within 3 days of registration.
- Wager the bonus 10x at odds of 1.7 or more within 60 days.
- Rollover requirements for casino play are 40x the bonus amount
- Cancelled bets, Cashed out bets, and Edit my bets do not count toward wagering.
After going through the bonus redemption process, nothing was unusual. In comparison to other sportsbook offers, the turnover requirements were higher than some and lower than others. The good news is that Sportingbet gives you 60 days to wager your bonus, and that is quite liberal by online bookie standards.
Payment Options – Deposits and Withdrawals
Payment Method | Deposit Minimum | Deposit Maximum | Time for Deposit |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | R50 | R100,000.00 (Daily) | Instant |
![]() | R50 | R100,000.00 (Daily) | Instant |
![]() | R10 | N/A | Instant |
![]() | R10 | N/A | Instant |
![]() | N/A | N/A | N/A |
![]() | R50 | R100,000.00 (Daily) | N/A |
Payment Method | Withdrawal Minimum | Withdrawal Maximum | Time for Withdrawal |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | N/A | N/A | N/A |
![]() | N/A | N/A | N/A |
![]() | N/A | N/A | N/A |
![]() | N/A | N/A | N/A |
![]() | R50 | R3000 | up to 24 hrs. |
![]() | R50 | N/A | up to 24 hrs. |
Whenever you’re depositing or withdrawing at an online bookie, the more deposit/withdrawal options, the better. Unfortunately, Sportingbet ZA’s deposit and withdrawal options are somewhat limited. By this I mean, it offers slightly fewer options than its rivals.
That said, bettors can avail of payment options like credit cards, EFT transfers, and vouchers. Fortunately, both the deposit and withdrawal minimums are R50, and from all accounts, the bookie does not charge withdrawal fees.
After reviewing the available payment options. I opted to fund my account via my credit card. For me, it was the easiest option as it is a fast, easy, and convenient way to fund my account.
How Helpful is Sportingbet Customer Support?
My personal experience with Sportingbet’s customer support department was positive. Whilst I didn’t require their assistance often, when I did, they were eager to lend a hand. What’s more, I found them to be friendly, knowledgeable, and capable of providing me with in-depth answers.
In terms of contact options, you can reach support via:
- Email: support@sportingbet.co.za
- Live chat (from 09:00 to 22:00)
The only drawback is the bookies’ operational hours. Unfortunately, support is only available from 9 am to 10 pm, so if you run into a problem, you’ll have to wait or self-diagnose the problem via the help section.
Security and Licensing
If you’re worried about security or licensing at Sportingbet, you can rest easy. The bookie’s parent company, GreatOdds (Pty) Ltd, is licensed by the Western Cape Gambling & Racing Board. The Western Cape Gambling & Racing Board oversees the bookmakers’ day-to-day operations to ensure they adhere to the rules and regulations governing their license.
In addition, an overview of the security measures Sportingbet offers has revealed the company’s commitment to protecting its customers. In that respect, Sportingbet utilizes security measures such as tamper-proof payment gateways, data protection, and end-to-end encryption software.
Sportingbet Responsible Gambling Features
As a Western Cape Gambling & Racing Board licensed betting site, Sportingbet ZA takes a proactive approach towards responsible gambling. Along with adhering to player protection guidelines, such as game security, player security, and underage gambling, the bookie offers the following:
- Deposit limits: These allow customers to limit the amount they deposit at any given moment. This includes daily, weekly, and monthly deposit amounts.
- Self-Exclusion: This option is in place for bettors who wish to self-exclude themselves for future betting activities. A self-exclusion request can be for 1 to 3 months or an indefinite period of time.
User Experience and Feedback
Whenever I am tasked with reviewing a betting site, I inevitably refer to sites like Trustpilot and Hellopeter to investigate common praises or complaints. Typically, I will find plenty of both, and that was certainly the case for Sportingbet.
Unfortunately, the majority of reviews on Hellopeter were negative. That said, there were allegations about the company delaying withdrawals and low RTP. Likewise, there were others praising the bookie’s apps, bonuses, and satisfactory customer support services.
History and Background of Sportingbet
Sportingbet was founded in 1997 by Mark Blandford. Since evolving as a sports betting brand, the company’s expansion efforts saw it acquire Paradise Poker in 2004, only to shutter the site, along with its other U.S.-facing betting business, several years later.
In 2008, Sportingbet expanded into South Africa after Netbet (PTY) Ltd was licensed to represent the brand. Only four short years later, the company agreed to a takeover bid by William Hill. Today, the company continues to operate as a sportsbook and casino provider in the U.K., South Africa, and abroad.
Final Verdict and Rating
Overall, Sportingbet is an optimal all-in-one betting partner that checks all the right boxes. The site essentially offers everything one needs for a well-rounded betting experience. The sportsbook offers above-average odds and a respectable number of betting options.
Similarly, the casino is reasonably populated, and combined with its promotional offers and foundation as an international betting site, bettors won’t have much to scoff at. As someone who has punted at Sportingbet, I’d not hesitate to recommend it to my fellow South African punters.
FAQ
Does Sportingbet offer a casino section for South African players?
Yes, Sportingbet offers a casino section for South African players that is powered by leading software providers like Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, and Nolimit City.
Does Sportingbet support payments in South African Rands?
Yes, Sportingbet supports payments in South African Rands.
Is Sportingbet legit in South Africa?
Yes, Sportingbet is legit in South Africa; it is licensed by the Western Cape Gambling & Racing Board.
Does Sportingbet South Africa offer Lucky Numbers?
Yes, Sportingbet South Africa offers Lucky Numbers via the live casino section.
How long do withdrawals at Sportingbet take?
Typically, Sportingbet takes 2 – 4 days to process withdrawals.
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