What Is The Labouchere Roulette Strategy?
The Labouchere roulette strategy, sometimes called the “cancellation system” or “split martingale”, is a progressive betting system where you write down a sequence of numbers and use that list to decide your stakes. It aims to lock in a fixed profit if you manage to complete the sequence, but it can also lead to larger bets if you hit a long losing run.
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Unlike simple systems where you just double or add one unit, the Labouchere strategy starts by deciding how much profit you want to aim for and then writing down a sequence of smaller numbers that add up to that total. Each bet is based on the first and last numbers in your sequence.
Basic Rules
- Write down a sequence of positive numbers (for example: 1 – 2 – 3).
- Your first bet is the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence (1 + 3 = 4 units).
- If you win, cross out the first and last numbers from the sequence.
- If you lose, add the amount you just staked to the end of the sequence.
- You repeat the process until all numbers are crossed off (target profit achieved) or you decide to stop.
Simple Labouchere Example
Say your sequence is 1 – 2 – 3 and your unit is £1:
- Sequence: 1 – 2 – 3 → bet £4 (1 + 3). If you win, remove 1 and 3 → sequence left: 2.
- Sequence: 2 → bet £2 (2 + 0, effectively just the middle number). Win again and remove 2 → sequence is empty.
In this simple case you’ve cleared your list and hit your original profit target (1 + 2 + 3 = 6 units). If you lose at any point, your sequence becomes longer by adding your last stake to the end.
Where The Labouchere Strategy Is Typically Used
Even-Money Outside Bets
The system is usually applied to even-money bets such as red/black, odd/even, or high/low. These have the highest hit frequency, which is important because frequent wins help you clear numbers from your sequence.
Structured Profit Target
One appealing feature is that you decide your desired profit up front by choosing your number sequence. If you complete the sequence, in theory you’ve reached that target.
Requires Discipline
Labouchere works only if you follow the rules strictly: always add lost stakes to the list, always remove numbers after wins, and avoid changing the sequence mid-way based on emotion.
Bankroll & Limits Matter
Losing streaks can make the list grow longer and stakes increase. You’ll need a bankroll that can handle those larger bets, and a table limit that doesn’t cut the progression short.
Pros & Cons of The Labouchere System
Pros
- Gives a clear, pre-defined profit target for your session.
- More flexible than simple doubling systems; you can choose any starting sequence.
- Offers a sense of structure and control over stakes.
Cons
- Long losing streaks make the sequence grow and bets can become very large.
- Table limits or limited bankroll can stop you from completing the sequence.
- Does not change the underlying odds or house edge of roulette.
Labouchere Walkthrough: Example Session
Here’s a simplified example with a starting sequence of 1 – 2 – 3 and a £1 unit. Assume you always bet on red:
| Spin | Sequence | Bet (First + Last) | Result | New Sequence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 – 2 – 3 | £4 | Lose | 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 |
| 2 | 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 | £5 | Win | 2 – 3 |
| 3 | 2 – 3 | £5 | Win | (sequence complete) |
In this mini example, you ended with the sequence cleared. In real play, you’ll often hit longer strings of results, which can make the progression more volatile.
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Frequently Asked Questions – Labouchere Strategy
Does the Labouchere system guarantee a profit?
No. Like all roulette betting systems, Labouchere does not change the long-term house edge. It can deliver wins in the short term, but a bad run can create a long sequence and big bets.
What kind of sequence should I start with?
Many players use short, simple sequences such as 1 – 2 – 3 or 1 – 1 – 2 – 2. The longer and larger the numbers in your sequence, the more aggressive (and risky) the system becomes.
Is Labouchere safer than Martingale?
It increases stakes more gradually than doubling systems, but it can still lead to large bets over time. “Safer” is relative — you should still only play with money you can afford to lose.
Can I use Labouchere on inside bets?
It’s designed with even-money bets in mind. Using it on single numbers or other low-hit bets increases volatility and risk significantly.
Responsible Gambling: Treat the Labouchere strategy as a way to structure your bets, not as a sure-fire way to win. Always set strict limits for time and money, and stop if the stakes or losses become uncomfortable.
