Welcome to the ultimate guide for all things bandy betting! Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer eager to explore the exhilarating world of bandy, you’ve landed on the right page. Our exclusive guide goes beyond the ordinary, not just listing the top bandy betting sites but empowering you with the knowledge needed to bet with confidence!
What Is Bandy?
For the uninitiated, bandy is a captivating hybrid sport that combines elements of field hockey with football rules, including the offside rule. Imagine the intensity of football played with the finesse of field hockey. The game involves 11 players on each team aiming to score over two 45-minute periods, with an additional two 15-minute periods and a penalty shootout if needed. Notably, extra time in bandy follows the golden goal rule, adding a unique twist.
A Bite-Sized History of Bandy
Bandy’s origins are shrouded in mystery, with reports suggesting its existence on expansive ice surfaces in medieval times. The game gained momentum in Europe, particularly in Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Finland. The split from ice hockey occurred due to the formalization of distinct rules in Canada, then known as British North America.
Differences Between Bandy and Ice Hockey – Rules
Understanding the nuances between bandy and ice hockey is crucial for appreciating the distinctiveness of each game. Here are five key rule differences:
- Bandy teams consist of 11 players, while ice hockey teams have only six.
- Bandy rinks are larger, akin to football pitches, making bandy less physically intense than ice hockey.
- Bandy matches last 45 minutes per half, exceeding ice hockey’s total game time of 40 minutes.
- Bandy employs a ball, whereas ice hockey uses a puck.
Top Bandy Betting Sites – Reviews
William Hill – Best For Big Tournaments
William Hill stands out for its exceptional coverage of major events like the Bandy World Championship. With a trusted name, high-quality odds, and an immersive online betting experience, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking top-notch bandy betting.
Pros:
- Trusted name in the industry
- Excellent coverage of major tournaments
- Consistently high-quality odds
Cons:
- May not cover some smaller contests
bet365 – Best All-Rounder
A household name, bet365 excels in all facets of betting, making it a reliable choice for bandy enthusiasts. Whether you’re into bandy or exploring other sports, bet365’s extensive coverage ensures a satisfying betting experience.
Pros:
- Sensational betting variety
- Inclusive of lesser-known sports like bandy
- Robust sportsbook and casino options
Cons:
- May require some searching due to immense sports variety
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Betway – Best for General Promotions
For those seeking a blend of bandy betting and enticing promotions, Betway is the go-to option. Boasting a dynamic range of bonuses and a skilled bookmaker, Betway enhances your bandy betting experience.
Pros:
- Diverse promotional variety
- Bonuses applicable across multiple sports
- Quality bookmaker support
Cons:
- Full promotional selection visible after registration
Betfair – Best for Betting Exchange
Betfair takes bandy betting to the next level with its expansive betting exchange. Whether you prefer traditional sportsbook betting or engaging in the exchange, Betfair offers unparalleled options for bandy enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Largest betting exchange globally
- Exciting opportunities for bandy betting
- Excellent traditional sportsbook
Cons:
- Abundance of options may be overwhelming for some
Coral – Best for Newcomers
Coral caters to newcomers, providing a seamless transition into online bandy betting. Its minimalist design ensures an easy and hassle-free experience, making it an ideal choice for those new to both bandy and online betting.
Pros:
- World-class design
- Balances simplicity with a vast betting selection
- Ideal for those transitioning from traditional bookmakers
Cons:
- Potential mismatch for fans of old-school bookies
Read our Coral bookmakers review.
888sport – Best for International Appeal
Step into the expansive world of 888sport, where international sports, including bandy, find a welcoming home. With a diverse range of markets and consistent odds boosts, 888sport ensures a global betting experience.
Pros:
- Incredible betting apps
- International sports feel at home
- Consistent odds boosts
Cons:
- Bandy may not be prominently advertised
LeoVegas – Best for Casino Fans
While renowned for its casino offerings, LeoVegas surprises with an underrated sportsbook that complements its stellar slot selection. For casino fans looking to explore bandy betting, LeoVegas emerges as a top choice.
Pros:
- Casino matches its reputation
- Underrated sportsbook
- Surprisingly international sports variety
Cons:
- Casino focus may not appeal to everyone
Paddy Power – Best for Streaming
Paddy Power, a household name, goes the extra mile with extensive market variety and superb coverage, including live streaming. While streaming availability depends on game logistics, Paddy Power stands out for its exceptional coverage.
Pros:
- Recognizable household name
- Market variety beyond reputation
- Great live coverage
Cons:
- Streaming availability varies, as with all operators
What Makes a Great Bandy Betting Site?
Now that we’ve explored the top bandy betting sites, let’s delve into what sets them apart and what makes a betting site truly exceptional for bandy enthusiasts.
1. Market Variety
Bandy may not be the primary focus for many bookmakers, but a great bandy betting site offers exceptional international market variety. We’re talking about not only covering numerous events but also providing a broad spectrum of betting markets for each event.
2. Easy To Find
Given bandy’s less mainstream status, finding markets can be a challenge. A great bandy betting site ensures that bandy markets are not just available but prominently displayed in a well-structured environment for easy accessibility, especially on mobile devices.
3. Odds Quality
Quality odds are non-negotiable. While bandy markets may not have as many comparison points as mainstream sports, we guarantee a focus on ensuring you always get the best deal, even if there aren’t many bookmakers to compare.
4. Promotional Inclusion
While dedicated bonus offers for bandy may be limited, a great bandy betting site includes the sport in general sports promotions. Free bets, cashback, and welcome offers are often more generous and applicable to various sports.
5. Suitability For Newcomers
For those venturing into bandy betting for the first time, a user-friendly site is essential. The best bandy betting sites prioritize simplicity, making the betting process easy for newcomers and enhancing the overall enjoyment for long-term fans.
Key Bandy Betting Tournaments for Newcomers
If you’re new to bandy, you might be curious about the key tournaments and events available for betting. Despite its size in the UK, bandy offers a plethora of exciting events accessible on the best UK bookmakers. Here’s a trio of standout tournaments to kickstart your bandy betting journey.
- Bandy World Championship:
- The pinnacle of bandy competitions, attracting top teams from around the globe.
- Ideal for those seeking high-stakes and internationally acclaimed bandy action.
- European Bandy Cup:
- A continental showdown featuring elite European teams.
- Offers a diverse range of matchups and intense competition.
- National Bandy League Finals:
- The culmination of national leagues, showcasing the best domestic talent.
- A great entry point for understanding the intricacies of domestic bandy competitions.