Best Sports Betting Companies in South Africa

Regulation of Sports Betting in South Africa

The legal framework for gambling, including sports betting, is rooted in national legislation. The key law today is the National Gambling Act of 2004, which replaced the earlier National Gambling Act of 1996 and sets the baseline rules for gambling regulation across the country. Before these reforms, gambling was much more restricted. For example, horse racing was one of the few legal types before the changes of the mid-1990s.

The 2004 Act was introduced to strengthen oversight and to deal with illegal gambling that grew after the 1996 reforms. It aims to standardize basic rules across provinces, promote responsible gambling, protect consumers, and ensure that gambling revenues contribute to public funds through taxation and licensing. The Act also clarifies what forms of gambling are legal, such as fixed-odds sports wagering, and it sets out strict penalties for unlicensed operators.

Under this framework, online betting is only legal when it is offered by operators that are licensed in South Africa by a provincial regulator. Interactive online gambling (such as online casino games) is not allowed, and using offshore gambling sites that are not licensed in South Africa is treated as illegal under South African law.

To implement these goals, the National Gambling Board (NGB) acts as the country’s top oversight body at national level. It was first created under the 1996 Act and continues under the 2004 Act. The NGB coordinates national policy, checks that the law is applied correctly, and oversees how the provincial regulators carry out their licensing and enforcement work. It does not issue provincial licences itself, but it monitors illegal gambling operations, manages the National Register of Excluded Persons to help combat problem gambling, and advises the government on updates to gambling legislation. Since its establishment, the NGB has played an important role in aligning South African gambling standards with international best practices and maintaining integrity in the sector.

Alongside the NGB, Provincial Licensing Authorities (PLAs) were created to handle licensing and day-to-day regulation within their own areas. Each province has its own board, such as the Gauteng Gambling Board (GGB), the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB), and the KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board (KZNGBB). These bodies are responsible for issuing licences to operators, approving premises, monitoring compliance, and enforcing provincial gambling laws in line with the national framework.

Over the years, these national and provincial bodies have achieved significant milestones, including the licensing of hundreds of legal bookmakers and betting outlets (both retail and online channels), improved transparency in the industry, and stricter enforcement against unlicensed and offshore operators. Their combined efforts have helped South Africa maintain a structured and accountable betting environment that continues to grow under clear national and provincial coordination.

Top 11 Legit Betting Sites

From long-standing local names to newer global brands, South Africa’s betting market is one of the fastest-growing in Africa. I reviewed the most trusted South African bookmakers, so you can see what each offers before signing up.

Betway

Licensed by WCGRB

Betway came online in 2006, and it has been licensed in South Africa by the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board since 2016. Since then, it has grown into one of the country’s most recognized mobile bookmakers, especially among soccer fans. It covers over 25 sports markets, ranging from popular ones like soccer, tennis, cricket, and basketball to niche options such as darts, bandy, and speedway.

The platform offers an impressive range of wagering options, including single, system, and outright markets. You can also use its Build-a-Bet feature on selected major events to create custom selections.

Betway’s in-play section includes real-time stats that make tracking matches more engaging, and it offers live streaming on selected events, which is still not common for all South African betting companies.

The brand is visible across local sports through sponsorships such as Cape Town City FC and Cricket South Africa (including the national cricket teams), which adds to its strong local presence.

Deposits and withdrawals are quick and simple. In addition to Visa and MasterCard, the bookie supports local payment methods such as Ozow, OTT Voucher, 1ForYou Voucher, and EFT.

On the downside, odds on some specialty markets may not be as strong as at certain big international bookmakers. Risk controls and stake limits can also feel restrictive for sharp punters or those placing large wagers. Despite that, Betway remains one of the most reliable and convenient platforms for sports fans in South Africa.

Hollywoodbets

Licensed by GGB, LGB, MER, KZNGBB, WCGRB

Hollywoodbets runs a full online sportsbook with a dedicated mobile app that mirrors its website. It also extends its reach across South Africa, with dozens of retail shops spread across multiple provinces. This gives users the choice to deposit, withdraw, or place wagers in person or online, which is a significant advantage for anyone who prefers mixing digital and retail experiences.

The platform features more than 25 traditional sports, from soccer, cricket, tennis, and rugby to motorsport, golf, and darts. It also covers virtual games and is one of the few local South African sports betting sites offering fantasy sports. Beyond sports, users can place wagers on special non-sport events, such as major award shows or TV competitions when they are offered. Hollywoodbets lists matches and leagues from over 20 countries, including strong local coverage of the South African Premier Division, CSA T20 Challenge, and regional rugby competitions.

It’s beginner-friendly, too. The site features a regularly updated blog that provides match analysis, tips, and guides on using the platform. This helps new users understand how to navigate markets and manage their accounts.

Deposits can be made using Instant EFT, Capitec Pay, bank cards, and vouchers. The minimum deposit varies depending on the payment method you choose. For many Instant EFT and voucher options, the minimum is low, often starting from small amounts like R5 or R10.

That said, some drawbacks exist. The bet builder is limited to football, which reduces options for fans of other sports. Certain features are only available once you create an account, which can feel restrictive if you’re browsing before signing up. The site’s homepage layout, with two main menus, can also be confusing at first glance, especially for newcomers trying to find their way around. Despite that, Hollywoodbets remains one of the most accessible and locally rooted platforms in the country.

SunBet

Licensed by MER, NWGB

SunBet is owned by the Sun International Group, one of South Africa’s biggest casino and hospitality companies. The brand carries that reputation for reliability into online sports, combining strong corporate backing with a growing sportsbook.

It offers more than 30 sports, including soccer, basketball, tennis, golf, and boxing. Beyond sports, it also has non-sporting markets such as politics and TV & novelty events (for example big talent shows and award shows). SunBet includes Esports and virtuals, and it also offers fantasy sports, which is still not very common among local SA betting sites.

Each day, there are hundreds of different bets to choose from across its sports and events. The site often boosts odds on selected matches, and its Bet Builder is available on key sports like soccer and selected basketball games, letting you build custom bets on big fixtures.

The Cash Out tool lets users settle certain bets early before the result is confirmed, when the market is available for Cash Out.

Transactions usually start at R50 for both deposits and withdrawals. Payments can be made through bank cards, EFT, 1ForYou Voucher, and OTT Voucher, covering the main local options that most users know.

New users get a 100% first deposit bonus up to R1,000 in free bets when they meet the bonus rules.

Despite this, SunBet’s reach is still smaller than bigger South African names such as Betway and Hollywoodbets. It doesn’t have a large retail presence under the SunBet brand, so its visibility outside the online space is lower. The site’s strong focus on compliance and corporate structure can also make it feel less “loud” than some newer, promo-heavy competitors. Even so, SunBet remains a dependable option backed by one of the most established names in South African gaming.

Supabets

Licensed by WCGRB

Supabets covers many league events across dozens of countries, including South Africa. This gives it one of the widest selections among local online sports bookies. The site offers solid odds across most sports, and top fixtures can have well over a hundred different betting options, so users have plenty of ways to back their ideas.

For those who prefer having more than one way to bet, Supabets operates around 200 physical betting shops across South Africa in addition to its online platform. This mix of digital and retail access gives users the freedom to deposit, withdraw, and place wagers in the way that works best for them.

One of the reasons many users are drawn to Supabets is its generous range of bonuses. New users get a R50 free bet bonus just for signing up. The first deposit is matched 100% up to R2,000. Returning users aren’t left out either, with ongoing offers like a 10% weekly cashback, up to 125% multibet bonus, and frequent seasonal promotions.

The platform supports Ozow, SID, 1Voucher, Peach Payments, and bank transfers. Minimum deposits can be as low as R1, depending on the payment method you choose, and withdrawals start from R50.

Unfortunately, advanced options like teasers and a clear bet builder tool are missing, so users who prefer very custom markets might find it limited. Even though the platform covers a large variety of sports, football remains its main focus. For example, only selected live football games qualify for cash out, while other sports mainly have pre-match cash out or none at all. Still, Supabets’ balance of value, reach, and user-friendly setup makes it a strong choice for South African punters.

Sportingbet

Licensed by WCGRB

Sportingbet has a long history in the global market, founded in 1998, and was one of the earliest international bookmakers to operate in South Africa, coming in 2008.

The platform features over 30 sports markets, covering soccer, basketball, tennis, and horse racing, along with niche options such as handball, biathlon, and water polo. It also offers virtual sports for those who enjoy simulated events.

The site is known for releasing early odds, which gives users a chance to get in before big price moves on major fixtures. Margins on top events are usually competitive, and there are enhanced odds on selected multi-wagers that can boost returns.

Sportingbet supports a variety of wager types, including simple singles, accumulators, and props, with a Build-a-Bet feature available for custom selections on selected events (mainly bigger games and leagues). It also provides match stats and data to guide decisions.

The Cash Out tool has Auto and Notify Cash Out options on eligible bets, which let users manage outcomes in real time when the feature is available.

Navigation across the platform is simple, and its Android and iOS apps provide a similar experience on mobile.

Deposits usually start from around R10, depending on the payment method, and withdrawals begin at about R50. The platform accepts bank cards, Ozow, and EFT, among others.

New users get a 100% bonus up to R1,000 on their first deposit, followed by 50% and 75% matches up to R1,000 each on their next two deposits.

The downside comes in its localization. Promotions are more limited for South African punters compared to some homegrown brands. Odds for niche sports are also slower to appear and often lack depth in market options. Even with these limits, Sportingbet’s reliability, pricing, and tools like Build-a-Bet and Auto Cash Out keep it among the most trusted international names in the country.

World Sports Betting

Licensed by WCGRB, MER

World Sports Betting is one of the best online betting sites in South Africa for adventurous punters who enjoy variety. It features around 20-25 traditional sports along with popular Esports titles like League of Legends, Dota 2, and CS. Its coverage goes far beyond major tournaments such as the English Premier League, NBA, and ATP events. You’ll also find fixtures from all the World, making it one of the most globally connected local platforms.

The bookmaker also has a special focus on horse racing. It covers local tracks in South Africa as well as major races in the UK and France.

It includes features such as a bet builder, cash out tool, and live streaming for several events.

Transactions are convenient, with deposits starting from R1 (via vouchers) and withdrawals from R50. Supported payment options include EFTs, OTT Voucher, Blue Voucher, and credit cards. It also accepts Samsung Pay and Apple Pay for users who prefer mobile payments.

The website runs smoothly across all devices and offers apps for both Android and iOS users.

New sign-ups get a 100% welcome bonus up to R20,000 on their first deposit. Users also receive a 100% deposit match bonus up to R2,000 on their birthday. There are also ongoing, sport-specific promotions tailored for racing fans.

Still, the platform has a smaller marketing reach compared to big names like Betway, which can affect its visibility. Some live streams are also restricted to logged-in users or those with an active balance. Even with these limits, World Sports Betting remains one of the most rewarding and feature-rich SA online betting sites, especially for punters who like exploring multiple sports and regions.

Gbets

Licensed by WCGRB, MER

Gbets offers thousands of daily pre-match and live events across more than 20 sports markets, including Esports and virtuals. It’s a platform built for users who want constant action and plenty of choices. Aside from the online platform, Gbets adds convenience by having over 40 retail betting shops across several South African provinces.

The site covers both short-term and long-term options, from quick in-play markets on soccer and basketball to outright wagers on tournaments like the Rugby World Cup or UEFA Champions League.

It also includes a bet builder feature for custom selections on selected matches (mainly soccer).

For even more control, Gbets offers partial and full Cash Out options on selected pre-match and live events, letting users decide when to settle.

The bookmaker accepts bank cards, 1ForYou Voucher, OTT Vouchers, and other local methods. The minimum deposit is usually around R10, depending on the payment method, and withdrawals start at R50, which suits most budgets.

Soccer fans get the most attention here, with promotions such as 2 Up, early payout, 50% cashback up to R500 if your team loses by three goals, and up to 600% win boosts on parlays of at least two selections. New users are welcomed with a R50 Free Bet bonus and 50 free spins.

On the downside, the bet builder isn’t always available, especially for niche sports like Rugby Union. Smaller markets also lack the same depth of options seen on larger global platforms. Even so, Gbets provides a strong mix of value, variety, and local accessibility that makes it a dependable choice for South African users.

Playa

Licensed by MER

Playa has been operating since the 1990s. Over the decades, it has built into a hybrid operator with an online platform and retail shops across several provinces. It features around 20 sports, including soccer, boxing, basketball, futsal, and more. Each match can have up to 500 different ways to stake, which gives users plenty of options to explore.

The site also includes a bet builder feature and provides useful stats for pre-match and live events. A live match tracker updates scores and key moments in real time, keeping users informed throughout, even when there is no video stream.

Its range of wagering options is wide, but the strongest value often comes from outright markets, where the odds tend to be more attractive. The site is easy to navigate, even for newcomers who are just getting started.

Speaking of new users, the welcome bonus offers 100% up to R3,000 on the first deposit. Existing users get access to ongoing perks, including a 5% cashback on weekly losses up to R2,000 and up to 125% win boosts on multi-leg selections.

Playa supports several banking options such as bank cards, Instant EFT via providers like Ozow or Payfast, and vouchers like 1Voucher, OTT Voucher, Blu Voucher and Playa Moola vouchers. For mobile payments, methods such as Google Pay, Apple Pay and Capitec Pay are supported. Deposits usually start from around R10–R20, and withdrawals typically start from about R50, depending on the payment method you use.

The website looks dated compared to newer local South African online betting sites, which can make the overall experience feel basic. Even so, Playa’s good range of promotions, simple setup, and helpful support make it a reliable choice for casual users across South Africa.

Betfred

Licensed by MER

Betfred is one of the largest global brands operating in South Africa, strengthened by its acquisition of the former local operator Betting World. The bookmaker has combined its international reputation with strong local roots, offering an extensive range of events that includes La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, the NFL, the NBA, and the NHL. It covers a wide range of leagues from many countries, including South Africa, Brazil, China, and the Netherlands.

The platform is known for releasing early odds and offering hundreds of wagering options on big matches, which gives users plenty of outcomes to choose from. Users can also enjoy regular odds boosts on selected matches and multi-wagers.

Its bet builder is a solid tool for custom picks on major sports, allowing for easy combinations of markets on one slip.

Betfred also provides helpful match statistics such as possession data, shots on target, and head-to-head records, along with a live match tracker to follow in-play action.

The bookie has a dedicated Android app and a mobile-friendly website for iOS users, both of which provide full functionality.

Transactions can be made using Walletdoc, Peach, and vouchers like OTT Voucher and 1Voucher. Those who prefer in-person interaction can use Betfred’s network of over 60 retail shops across South Africa.

The brand also rewards active punters with generous offers, including up to a 125% boost on parlay wins and a refund worth 10x your stake if a wager loses by one leg.

The main drawbacks are the lack of live streaming and a website that can feel clumsy to use on a desktop. Even with that, Betfred remains a strong mix of international experience and South African reach.

10bet

Licensed by MER

10bet is an international bookmaker with a local platform designed specifically for South Africans. It covers everything from local favourites like soccer, cricket, and rugby to less-followed sports such as Aussie rules. Events span across many different countries, so users have access to global fixtures and tournaments year-round. The site has a strong focus on soccer and basketball, featuring top leagues like the English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, NBA, and EuroLeague. It also offers eSoccer and eBasketball matches along with Esports titles such as Counter-Strike and League of Legends. Beyond sports, you can also sometimes find markets for non-sporting events like the Oscars, BBC Sports Personality of the Year, and political outcomes, depending on what is available at the time.

Odds are generally competitive on most major markets. Some fixtures feature up to 300 different wagering options, from totals and handicaps to props like first goal scorer or team to score next. Real-time data is displayed for ongoing events to help users track the flow of play, and the built-in match tracker gives a clear visual update for matches without live streaming.

10bet supports a wide range of banking options. In addition to standard card payments, it accepts local methods such as Blu Voucher, OTT Voucher, Ozow, and 1Voucher. It also supports cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and USDT. The minimum deposit is usually R10, but some voucher methods allow smaller deposits, for example around R5. Withdrawals typically start from R50, though the exact minimum can depend on the withdrawal method you choose.

New users receive a 100% bonus up to R3,000 on their first deposit. Ongoing offers include up to a 600% win boost on multi bets, a R10 free bet for betting R50 on selected rugby matches, and a 5% bonus on crypto deposits.

The only real gap is for those who prefer physical shops, as 10bet operates fully online without any retail locations. Even so, it’s one of the most comprehensive and tech-forward platforms for South African punters.

Lulabet

Licensed by WCGRB

Lulabet is one of the newest names on the South African scene, launched in the early 2020s and already gaining attention for its fresh design and simple setup. It features more than 20 sports markets, covering everything from football and cricket to tennis, basketball, and golf. It’s not just focused on international events either. Local South African leagues such as the DStv Premiership and CSA T20 Challenge are also included.

The website is simple to navigate, with all major sections clearly laid out. It uses live data from a major stats provider to deliver accurate, real-time stats for pre-match and live events, helping users follow key moments and team data easily.

Transactions can be made using MasterCard, Visa, and several voucher options. The transaction speed and the minimum and maximum deposit and withdrawal limits depend on the payment system you choose.

New users receive a free bet bonus of R250 or R50 after making a qualifying deposit and placing their first bet. The bonus amount depends on the size of the initial deposit.

Its banking choices are solid, though some older platforms still offer more options and extra methods. Soccer remains its main focus, and other sports don’t yet have the same level of depth or variety. Advanced tools such as a bet builder are available on selected events, giving more control on some markets, but they are not yet as wide as on older brands.

Being a newer bookmaker also comes with some growing pains. Lulabet is still building its reputation, adding features, and expanding its promotions and partnerships. Even so, it’s a promising local platform with a legitimate license, a clean layout, and reliable coverage of both South African and international sports.

Comparison Table

If you’re still deciding where to start, this chart lays out how the top betting sites in South Africa compare in odds, promotions, and usability. Betway and Hollywoodbets often rank among the best overall.

Casinos
In Play Mode
Live Streaming
Cash Out
Mobile Application
Bookmaker Payout	94%	94%
Min Deposit	R5	R5
Min Bet	R1	R1
Max Profit	R10000000	Unlimited
Min Withdrawal	R50	R100
Withdrawal Time	Up to 2 working days	Up to 5 working days
Rating	3.9	3.7