Looking for the best sports betting sites with welcome bonuses in 2025? You’re not alone.
With dozens of new bookmakers entering the scene and everyone promising “free bets” or “100% deposit boosts,” it’s harder than ever to figure out which sites actually deliver and which are just marketing traps.
That’s why we did the research for you. From classic UK bookmakers to crypto-friendly sportsbooks, we’ve ranked the top 5 online betting sites offering the most rewarding, beginner-friendly, and trusted sign-up bonuses this year.
Let’s break down what’s worth your time and what you should avoid.
Top 5 Sports Betting Sites with Welcome Bonuses in 2025
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most trusted, bonus-packed sportsbooks this year:
| Rank | Betting Site | Welcome Bonus Offer | Wagering Req. | Best For |
| 1️⃣ | Bet365 | Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets | 1x | UK/IE bettors |
| 2️⃣ | Stake.com | 200% Deposit Bonus up to $1,000 | 5x | Crypto + global access |
| 3️⃣ | Betway | £30 Matched Free Bet | 1x | Beginners & football fans |
| 4️⃣ | 1xBet | 100% up to €130 + Extra Points | 5x | Variety of markets |
| 5️⃣ | William Hill | Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets (4 x £10) | 1x | Horse racing + promos |
📌 All bonuses are current as of June 2025. Terms apply. Always verify on the official site before claiming.
1. Bet365 – The Most Trusted Sportsbook in 2025
Welcome Bonus: Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets
Wagering Requirement: 1x
Why We Like It:
- Huge range of sports and live markets
- Fast payouts and trusted brand
- Great mobile experience
Verdict: If you’re in the UK or Ireland and want a reliable, no-nonsense betting site with a strong bonus, Bet365 is the safest bet.
2. Stake.com – Best Crypto-Friendly Bonus
Welcome Bonus: 200% Deposit Match up to $1,000
Wagering Requirement: 5x
Why We Like It:
- Instant deposits and withdrawals via crypto
- No KYC required in some countries
- Massive range of niche sports and esports
Verdict: Great for global users or crypto bettors who want a high bonus and fast access to winnings.
3. Betway – Best for Football Fans and Beginners
Welcome Bonus: £30 Matched Free Bet
Wagering Requirement: 1x
Why We Like It:
- Super easy to navigate, great for new users
- Regular free bet clubs and football promos
- Strong coverage of Premier League, Champions League, and more
Verdict: If you mostly bet on football and want a clean interface with ongoing promos, Betway hits the mark.
4. 1xBet – Most Betting Markets Worldwide
Welcome Bonus: 100% up to €130 + Extra Loyalty Points
Wagering Requirement: 5x (accumulator, min. 3 selections)
Why We Like It:
- Huge number of global sports and betting options
- Generous sign-up bonus with ongoing rewards
- Accepts local currencies and has multiple app versions
Verdict: A solid pick for high-volume or international bettors who want options in everything from table tennis to politics.
William Hill – Best for Horse Racing and UK Promotions
Welcome Bonus: Bet £10, Get £40 in Free Bets (split into 4 x £10)
Wagering Requirement: 1x
Why We Like It:
- Long-established UK brand with top-notch racing coverage
- Daily enhanced odds and acca boosts
- Fast sign-up and mobile betting tools
Verdict: Perfect for punters who enjoy racing, football, and a classic bookmaker feel.
Which Sports Betting Site Should You Choose?
Not all free bet offers are built the same and neither are bettors. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right platform based on your betting style:
New to Betting?
Go with Betway or William Hill. Their simple signup flow, low wagering requirements, and UK-focused bonuses make them perfect for beginners.
Football Obsessed?
Betway and Bet365 dominate in football coverage from the Premier League to international friendlies. You’ll also find enhanced odds, goal scorer specials, and free bet clubs weekly.
Want a Huge Bonus?
If you’re chasing a big welcome bonus and don’t mind a higher rollover, Stake.com gives you up to $1,000 with crypto support.
Bet from Outside the UK?
Try 1xBet or Stake.com. Both accept a wide range of currencies, have fewer restrictions, and offer multi-language support, perfect for international punters.
🐎 Love Horse Racing?
William Hill stands out with top-notch horse racing coverage, odds boosts, and real-time results. A no-brainer for Cheltenham or Ascot fans.
Types of Free Bets in 2025
Bookmakers have gotten creative with how they reward new users. Here are the most common types of free bets and bonuses you’ll see in 2025:
- No-Deposit Free Bet:
Get a free bet just for signing up. No deposit needed but often smaller in value (£5–£10). - Matched Bet Offer:
The bookmaker matches your first deposit (e.g., 100% up to £100). Great if you’re planning to deposit more. - Bet-to-Get Promotions:
The classic “Bet £10, Get £30” type of deal. You must place a qualifying bet to unlock bonus funds. - Free Bet Credits:
You’ll get a bonus in credit form usually usable on any sport but must be used in full. - Enhanced Odds or Specials:
Not always labeled as “free bets,” but you get better value on selected outcomes, often with capped winnings.
How to Use Your Free Bet – Step-by-Step
Claimed your bonus? Here’s how to make sure it works:
- Login to your bookmaker account
- Choose your sport or event
– e.g., Man City vs Arsenal - Add your pick to the bet slip
- Tick the box to use your Free Bet
- Place the bet and confirm
✅ If it wins, you get the profit, not the stake.
🚫 If it loses, you don’t lose real money.
Free Bet Terms to Watch Out For
Before you get excited about a “£100 Free Bet,” take 30 seconds to check these terms:
| What to Check | Why It Matters |
| Expiry | Most free bets expire in 7 days |
| Wagering | You may need to bet your winnings 1–5x |
| Min Odds | Commonly 1.5 (1/2) or higher |
| Sport Limits | Some only apply to football or horse racing |
| Max Winnings | Often capped at £100–£500 |
Can You Withdraw Free Bet Winnings?
Not directly.
You can’t withdraw the free bet itself, but you can withdraw whatever profit it earns.
Example:
Place a £20 free bet on 2.00 odds. If you win, you get £20 profit but not the £20 stake.
FAQs
What is a free bet in sports betting?
A free bet is a promotional offer from a bookmaker that lets you place a wager without using your own money. If your bet wins, you keep the profit, but the original free bet stake is not returned.
How do I claim a free bet as a new customer?
To claim a free bet, sign up with a licensed bookmaker, make a qualifying deposit (usually around £10), place your first bet, and once it settles, the free bet amount will be credited to your account.
Can I withdraw free bet winnings?
Yes, you can withdraw the winnings from a free bet, but not the stake itself. Some bookmakers may apply wagering requirements before you can cash out.
What is the best free bet offer in 2025?
Top free bet offers in 2025 come from trusted names like Bet365, William Hill, and Betway. These bookmakers offer competitive terms, low wagering requirements, and reliable customer support.
Do free bets expire?
Yes, most free bets come with an expiration window, typically between 7 to 30 days after they’re credited. Always check the offer’s terms and conditions to avoid losing unused bonuses.
Can I use my free bet on any sport?
In most cases, yes. However, some bookmakers limit free bet usage to specific sports or events like football, horse racing, or major tournaments. Check eligibility before placing your bet.
What is a matched bet bonus?
A matched bet bonus is where the bookmaker matches your first deposit or wager, usually pound for pound, up to a certain limit. For example, bet £10 and get £10 as a free bet.
What is a no-deposit free bet?
A no-deposit free bet is a rare bonus that allows you to place a wager without depositing any money. It’s usually available for new customers upon registration and verification.
What are wagering requirements?
Wagering requirements tell you how many times you need to bet your bonus or winnings before you can withdraw. For example, a 5x requirement on a £20 bonus means you must wager £100 before cashing out.
Are free bets available to existing customers?
Yes, many bookmakers offer ongoing promotions for loyal users. These include bet clubs, reload bonuses, cashback offers, and special event-based free bets.
Can I open multiple betting accounts for more offers?
Yes, you can open accounts with different bookmakers to claim their welcome bonuses. Just make sure each account complies with the platform’s eligibility rules and you’re not duplicating accounts on the same site.
How do I know if a free bet offer is legitimate?
Always choose a bookmaker licensed by recognised bodies like the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. Look for transparent terms and avoid sites with vague or overly generous promises.
What’s the difference between bonus bets and free bets?
Free bets are usually one-off wager credits with no real-money risk, while bonus bets may include deposit matches or site credits with attached wagering rules.
Can I use free bets on accumulator bets?
Some bookmakers allow this, but others may restrict free bets to singles only. Always check the eligibility for the bet type listed in the promotion terms.
Can I use free bets for in-play or live betting?
In many cases, yes. Some bookmakers allow free bets on live events, while others restrict them to pre-match betting. Review the specific promotion details before betting.
What happens if I cancel a bet made with a free bet?
If your free bet is voided due to event cancellation or technical issues, it usually won’t be refunded. Policies vary by bookmaker, so it’s best to review the specific T&Cs.