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What is a Quinella? How Does A Quinella Work Explained

SB Staff|14/08/2026|
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Keen to continue exploring the world of Exotics? You’ve read up on Trifectas and Quaddies and want to know what else is out there.

Well, look no further. Up next on the Exotics menu is a Quinella. A Quinella bet is another type of racing exotic that will spice up your next wager on the track.

Unsure exactly what is a Quinella bet and how exactly it works? Never fear! Our detailed Punter IQ guide will alleviate any confusion you might have surrounding Quinellas.

 

Quinella: Quick Facts

 

  • A quinella is an exotic horse racing bet where you pick two horses to finish first and second in any order.
  • Unlike an exacta, the order does not matter; if your two horses fill the top two spots, you win.
  • You can box a quinella by selecting more than two runners, which covers all possible combinations but reduces the dividend.
  • Quinellas are available on horse racing, harness racing and greyhound racing.
  • On Sportsbet, you can place a tote quinella (paid at the home tote dividend) or a fixed odds quinella on selected races.

 

What is a Quinella Bet?

 

If you’re reading this article then you’re obviously wondering what's a quinella? Well a Quinella is an exotic horse racing bet that allows punters to select two horses to finish first and second in any order.

If you select a Tote Quinella, we pay dividends based on the home tote. For more information regarding Tote Betting, check out our What is Tote Betting guide.

Quinellas are a popular bet type among horse racing enthusiasts, as they offer a greater chance of winning than other bets.

A Quinella bet is also relatively easy to understand and place. Unlike other exotic bets, such as trifectas, a Quinella requires selecting only two horses, making it an ideal bet for beginners or casual punters.

Additionally, you can create a boxed quinella and select as many runners as you want. Obviously, the more runners you pick, the lower your dividend will be, as your chance of winning is much higher.

 

How Does a Quinella Bet Work?

 

You win the Quinella bet if your selected horses finish first and second in any order. Regarding payouts, here at Sportsbet, we offer fixed odd Quinellas (subject to deductions) on certain races.

 

How to Place a Quinella Bet

 

Placing a Quinella couldn’t be more straightforward on the Sportsbet app and website.

1. Simply select your chosen race, go to the Exotics tab, and select Quinella.

3. From there, select your two horses, or if you’re hedging your bets and placing a boxed Quinella, select as many runners from the field as you like.

3. Then, choose your stake, confirm your bet, and enjoy the race. Lucky for you Sportsbet’s built in quinella calculator has you covered and makes it easy to understand.

4. Quinellas are one of the most straightforward and easy-to-understand exotic bet types on the market.

So, if you’re a new punter wanting to explore the wonderful world of horse racing and all the different bet types that come with it, a Quinella is as good a place as any to start.

 

Ready to give it a crack? Head to the Sportsbet racing markets and find your next quinella.

 

Quinella FAQ

 

How many horses do you need for a quinella?

A standard quinella requires two horses. A boxed quinella allows you to select three or more, covering multiple combinations.

 

Does the order matter in a quinella?

No. Your two selections just need to finish first and second in any order.

 

What is the difference between a quinella and a trifecta?

A quinella covers the first two positions in any order. A trifecta requires you to select the first three finishers in the correct order, it is significantly harder to win but pays a much higher dividend.

 

Can you place a quinella on greyhounds and harness racing?

Yes. Quinellas are available on horse racing, harness racing and greyhound racing at Sportsbet.

 

What is a tote quinella?

A tote quinella pays at the home tote dividend, which fluctuates based on the pool. A fixed odds quinella locks in your payout at the time you place the bet.

Relevant Articles

What is a Quaddie?

An explanation of the exotic bet type in horse racing known as a Quaddie.

What is an Exacta Bet In Horse Racing

As part of our Punter IQ series, Sportsbet presents our What is an Exacta Bet in Horse Racing guide. A must read for punters looking into the world of racing.

What is a Trifecta?

A guide for the exotic bet type in horse racing known as a Trifecta. Learn exactly what is a trifecta today!
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