Is Handball Betting Popular? Exploring a Growing Market
Handball might not grab international headlines like football or basketball, but in the betting world, it is quickly carving out a space of its own. With fast-paced action, high-scoring matches, and a growing number of professional leagues, handball has become an exciting option for sports bettors around the world.
But just how popular is handball betting today? Let’s dive into the current state of this niche market, which bookmakers support it, and why it’s gaining traction among sharp bettors.
The Rise of Handball Betting
Over the past decade, handball has expanded well beyond its European roots. Major international tournaments like the IHF World Championships and the EHF Champions League have boosted the sport’s visibility. As global interest in handball grows, so does the range of betting options available to fans.
What makes handball betting particularly attractive is its predictability compared to other sports. In high-scoring games, variance tends to level out, making statistical models and analysis more effective. This has drawn the attention of bettors who are looking for markets with more consistent patterns.
Additionally, the fast tempo of handball games creates live betting opportunities that are dynamic and engaging perfect for bettors who enjoy quick decision-making under pressure.

Which Bookmakers Offer Handball Betting?
Although not every sportsbook highlights handball in the main menu, many leading bookmakers offer extensive markets for major and minor tournaments. Here’s a quick look at some reliable platforms:
Bookmaker | Handball Betting Coverage |
---|---|
Bet365 | Extensive: domestic & international leagues |
1xBet | Wide selection + live betting |
Unibet | Good coverage of European events |
William Hill | Focus on World Championships and Olympics |
Pinnacle | High-limit markets for major matches |
These bookmakers provide options for both pre-match betting and live betting on handball, including markets like total goals, handicap lines, and even player-specific stats during major tournaments.
Popular Handball Betting Markets
Bettors interested in handball usually focus on:
- Match Winner: Predicting the outright winner (including extra time in some markets).
- Over/Under Total Goals: Betting on the number of goals scored in a match.
- Handicap Betting: Especially important when a strong favorite faces a weaker team.
- First Half Betting: Ideal for bettors who want to capitalize on fast starts.
- Top Scorer Markets: For bigger tournaments like the World Championship.
The availability of different betting markets varies by bookmaker and competition, but overall, handball offers a healthy range of choices for both conservative and aggressive betting styles.
Why Handball Betting Appeals to Smart Bettors
Several factors explain why handball is becoming a favorite among informed bettors:
- Data Availability: Match stats are accessible and detailed, making analysis easier.
- High Scoring: Reduces randomness compared to low-scoring sports.
- Underserved Market: Less competition among bettors means softer lines.
- Frequent Matches: Domestic leagues and tournaments provide regular betting action.
In short, handball combines speed, strategy, and statistical depth, making it ideal for those who want something different from mainstream sports.
Things to Keep in Mind
Despite its advantages, handball betting also presents challenges:
- Lower-tier leagues can be unpredictable due to lack of data.
- Some bookmakers limit maximum stakes on smaller competitions.
- Odds movement can be sharp, especially just before match start.
New bettors should start by focusing on major tournaments where information is plentiful and odds are more stable.
While handball betting may still be considered niche compared to giants like football or basketball, it is rapidly gaining popularity among those seeking smarter, data-driven opportunities. With growing global attention, increasing bookmaker coverage, and dynamic match structures, handball is no longer just a side market — it’s a genuine avenue for profitable sports betting.
If you’re looking for a fast, strategic sport with solid betting value, handball might just be your next favorite market.