The German Bundesliga is the top league in the German football pyramid. Watched by millions around the world and broadcast in over 200 countries, it is also one of Europe’s top five football divisions alongside the English Premier League and has played home to some of the best footballers in history.
As well as top-quality footballers, Germany is home to some of the best fans on the planet. Bundesliga matches boast the highest average attendance among football leagues in the world. With such a loyal fanbase and widespread popularity, it's no shock that there are so many betting opportunities when it comes to the Bundesliga.
Here at Betsson, we have a range of markets on the German Bundesliga, with great odds on offer to maximise your winnings. But before you start betting on Bundesliga matches, take a moment to read through our handy guide.
The History of the German Bundesliga
The Bundesliga is one of the newer divisions in Europe, having been founded in 1963. At first, only 16 teams competed in the league, but this was increased to 18 for the 1965–66 season. Since then, the title has typically been contested between 18 teams, aside from the 1991–92 campaign when it briefly expanded to 20 teams due to German reunification.
Each team plays 34 matches per season, 17 home and 17 away, with three points awarded for a win. The bottom two clubs (17th and 18th) are automatically relegated to the 2. Bundesliga, while the 16th-placed team enters a two-legged playoff against the third-placed side from the second tier for a chance to remain in the top flight.
In total, 57 teams have played in the Bundesliga, with 13 different clubs winning the title. Bayern Munich is the most successful club with a record 32 titles, followed by Borussia Dortmund and Borussia Mönchengladbach with five each. Other notable champions include Wolfsburg, Werder Bremen, VFB Stuttgart, 1860 Munich and Hamburger SV. Werder Bremen have won the league four times, while Wolfsburg secured their first title in 2008–09.
RB Leipzig, Hoffenheim and Union Berlin are among Germany’s biggest clubs that have yet to win the title. Bayern Munich have also claimed six of the eight UEFA Champions League titles won by German clubs, with Borussia Dortmund and Hamburg responsible for the other two.
Amazing Bundesliga achievements
Here are some of the most impressive achievements in Bundesliga history:
- Most goals: Gerd Müller scored 365 Bundesliga goals for Bayern Munich.
- Most goals in a single season: Robert Lewandowski netted 41 goals in just 29 games in 2020–21.
- Most Top Scorer awards: Both Müller and Lewandowski topped the scoring charts seven times each.
- Most titles won: Thomas Müller has won the Bundesliga a record 12 times with Bayern Munich.
- Most appearances: Charly Körbel made 602 Bundesliga appearances for Eintracht Frankfurt.
What Bundesliga bets can I place?
When it comes to Bundesliga betting, there are plenty of exciting options. Before the season starts, one of the most popular bets is choosing the outright winner. While Bayern Munich are often the favourites, Bayer Leverkusen’s sensational 2023–24 season proved the Bavarians aren’t invincible.
You can also bet on each individual match with a wide variety of markets: correct match outcome, correct score, first or anytime goalscorer, total goals, number of corners, both teams to score (BTTS), and many others. To increase your odds and potential returns on small stakes, combine multiple markets using our Bet Builder feature.
To use this tool, simply click on ‘Create a bet’ after selecting a match from our Bundesliga page.
Can I place in-play bets on the Bundesliga?
Yes, you can. At Betsson, our Live Betting section lets you bet during matches, even if you miss the kick-off. In-play betting is a great way to use your football knowledge and react to what's happening in real time. For example, if Bayern Munich’s defence looks vulnerable against Borussia Dortmund, you can instantly bet on the next goal to be scored by the opposition. It’s all about analysing live trends and making smart decisions on the spot.
That said, it’s crucial to bet responsibly. Never risk more money than you can afford to lose. Always do your research before placing a bet: study team form, player stats, recent results, and head-to-head records. And remember, never chase your losses. When the fun stops, stop.
FAQ
✅ When does the German Bundesliga season usually start and end?
The German Bundesliga season runs from August to May, with 34 rounds of fixtures.
✅ Which teams are the most successful in Bundesliga history?
Bayern Munich are by far the most successful team in the history of Bundesliga standings, followed by Borussia Dortmund.
✅ How does Bundesliga promotion and relegation work?
At the end of the season, two teams are relegated from the Bundesliga to 2. Bundesliga. The team who finishes 16th in the Bundesliga is entered into a two-legged relegation play-off tie against the team which finishes 3rd in the 2. Bundesliga.
✅ Is it legal to bet on the Bundesliga in Belgium?
Yes, betting on the Bundesliga is legal, so long as it is done through a licensed operator such as Betsson.
✅ Is Betsson a secure site to bet on Bundesliga fixtures in Belgium?
Betsson is a secure site to bet on the Bundesliga with. We are licensed by the Belgian Gaming Commission, while all our sports betting and financial systems are checked regularly to ensure they meet the highest standards.
✅ Can I place live bets on Bundesliga games in Belgium?
You can place Bundesliga live bets at Betsson. All German Bundesliga live games will appear in the Football section on our Live Betting page, all with a range of markets and odds to choose from.
✅ Can I bet on the German Bundesliga on mobile?
Yes, mobile betting is available on Bundesliga Germany games at Betsson thanks to our easy-to-use app, available to download from the App Store and Google Play.
✅ What is the legal age limit for betting on the Bundesliga in Belgium?
The legal age to place bets on Bundesliga fixtures and games in Belgium is 21.
