Understanding Non-Runners A non-runner is a term commonly used in horse racing to identify when a selection that was due to run in a race has subsequently withdrawn. It can also be used across other sports to identify a selection that was due to compete in an event but did not take part. Bet Settlement Scenarios If Your Selection Does Not Come Under Starter's Orders If your selection is declared a non-runner and does not come under starter's orders (meaning it doesn't even get to the point of potentially starting the race/event), your stake will generally be refunded in full. Non-Ante-Post Bets: For bets placed closer to the event (not ante-post), if your selection is a non-runner, your bet will be void, and your stake refunded. If this selection was part of an accumulator bet, the remaining selections will stand, and the accumulator will be settled on them. Ante-Post Bets with 'Non-Runner No Bet' (NRNB): If you placed an ante-post bet on a market that was declared 'Non-Runner No Bet' (NRNB) at the time of your bet, your stake will be refunded if your selection does not run. NRNB specifically means that if your chosen selection doesn't participate in the race, your stake is returned. Rule 4 Deduction: In some cases, a Rule 4 deduction may be applied to winning bets on other selections in the same event. This is a deduction from winnings when a participant withdraws from a race or event. If Your Selection Comes Under Starter's Orders But Refuses to Race This scenario applies if your selection is officially part of the event (e.g., a horse is in the stalls or at the tape) but then refuses to start or race. In such cases, any bets placed on that selection will be settled as losers. Ante-Post Bets (Without NRNB) An ante-post bet is placed well in advance of an event, often before the final declarations or participant lists are confirmed (e.g., 72+ hours before a race). If you placed an ante-post bet, and the market was not declared 'Non-Runner No Bet' (NRNB) at the time you placed your bet, your selection becoming a non-runner will result in your bet being settled as a loser. If this selection was part of an accumulator bet, the entire accumulator bet would be settled as lost. For more information, see our general rules here. Related articles What happens at the end of the cool-off? Contact us What's each-way betting? Virgin Bet FIVES What happens to my bet if a football match is abandoned?