Forecast and Tricast Bets Explained
Forecast and tricast bets explained: straight, reverse and combination bets, how many lines each costs, how the CSF (computer straight forecast) dividend pays out, and a worked example.
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About this video: Forecast and Tricast Bets Explained
Forecast and Tricast Bets Explained shows how to bet on the finishing order of a race. A forecast asks you to name the first two finishers, while a tricast asks for the first three. Because they are harder to land than a win bet, the payouts can be much bigger.
First, the video compares straight and reverse forecasts. A straight forecast needs the first two in the correct order, so it is one line. A reverse forecast covers either order, so it is two lines and costs twice as much. Next, it shows combination bets, where four picks make 12 forecast lines or 24 tricast lines.
Then the video explains how forecasts pay out. On horse racing, they usually pay the Computer Straight Forecast dividend. It is worked out after the race, so you will not know it in advance. For example, a £2 reverse forecast costs £4. With an £18.40 dividend, the winning line returns £36.80.
Finally, it covers the rules to check. For example, if your first pick wins but your second finishes third, both lines lose. Also, non-runners are handled differently by each bookmaker. As a result, it pays to read the rules before you place a forecast or tricast.
However, rules and offers change. For that reason, we check every video against the Gambling Commission and other official sources. In fact, we last checked this one on 8 November 2026.
Read the transcript
Forecast and tricast bets ask you to name the finishing order of a race. Here’s how they work, what they cost, and how they pay out.
A forecast asks you to name the first two finishers, and a tricast asks for the first three. They’re harder to land than a win bet, so the payouts can be much bigger.
A straight forecast picks the first and second in the correct order. A reverse forecast covers your two selections in either order. So it’s two bets, and it costs twice as much.
Combination bets cover more picks in any order. Three selections make 6 forecast lines, and four make 12. A combination tricast on four selections is 24 lines. Only one line can win, so you pay more without winning more.
Payouts don’t come from multiplying the prices. On horse racing, forecasts are usually settled at the Computer Straight Forecast (CSF) dividend. It’s worked out after the race and published per £1 staked.
For example, a £2 reverse forecast on Copper Lantern and Harbour Mist costs £4. Copper Lantern wins, Harbour Mist is second, and say the dividend is £18.40. The winning line returns £36.80, a profit of £32.80.
However, if Copper Lantern wins but Harbour Mist finishes third, both lines lose. Non-runners are handled differently by each bookmaker, and tricasts are usually limited to bigger handicaps and some greyhound races. So check the rules first.
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