With the expansion of legalized gambling markets, sports betting sites canada has grown from a niche hobby into a nationwide pastime. While many sports fans enjoy the thrill of betting, not all sports attract the same level of attention from Canadian bettors. In this article, we’ll explore which sports dominate the landscape of sports betting in Canada, and why they appeal so strongly to both casual and seasoned punters.
1. Hockey: The National Obsession
Unsurprisingly, hockey tops the list. The NHL is deeply ingrained in Canadian culture, and with seven Canadian teams, fan engagement is sky-high. Bettors love to wager on:
Moneylines (who wins)
Puck lines (point spreads)
Totals (over/under goals)
Player props (goals, assists)
When it comes to sports betting in Canada, hockey is the undisputed king.
2. Football: NFL and CFL Action
American football, especially the NFL, commands massive interest. Canadian fans regularly tune in to Sunday games, and the Super Bowl is one of the biggest betting days of the year. In parallel, the CFL also garners local attention, especially during Grey Cup season.
Betting markets include:
Spread bets
Over/Under totals
Prop bets (e.g., first touchdown scorer)
Football plays a central role in the rise of sports betting in Canada due to its statistical depth and betting variety.
3. Basketball: A Fast-Growing Market
The success of the Toronto Raptors has sparked massive interest in the NBA, especially among younger demographics. Basketball games offer fast-paced action, making them ideal for:
Live (in-play) betting
Quarter/half-time wagers
Player performance props
Basketball’s appeal continues to grow, making it a major contributor to the popularity of sports betting in Canada.
4. Baseball: A Classic Wagering Sport
Though baseball may not be the top-viewed sport in Canada, the Toronto Blue Jays provide a strong national following. MLB betting options are incredibly detailed, including:
Pitcher matchups
Inning-specific bets
Team and player props
Thanks to its rich statistical background, baseball holds a solid niche in sports betting in Canada.
5. Soccer: International and Domestic Appeal
As soccer grows in Canada, thanks in part to Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps, and CF Montréal, so does soccer betting. Global events like the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and English Premier League also attract a huge volume of bets.
Soccer bettors can enjoy:
Double chance bets
Both teams to score (BTTS)
Correct score predictions
Soccer’s global scope ensures it remains an important player in the ecosystem of sports betting in Canada.
6. Combat Sports and Esports: Emerging Niches
Combat sports like UFC and boxing offer high-stakes action and fewer events, which heightens interest. Likewise, esports betting is gaining ground, especially among millennials and Gen Z, with games like League of Legends and CS:GO leading the charge.
These newer betting categories are carving out a growing share of the sports betting in Canada market.
Conclusion
From the icy thrill of the NHL to the high-speed drama of the NBA and global soccer events, Canadians have no shortage of exciting sports to wager on. Understanding which sports dominate the betting scene helps both newcomers and seasoned bettors maximize their experiences. No matter your sport of choice, sports betting in Canada offers something for everyone.
