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With no relegation in the A-League, the wooden spoon is all about pride and betting interest. Here's who could finish bottom of the 12-team ladder in 2026/27.
There’s no relegation in the A-League, so finishing bottom of the 12-team ladder costs a club nothing but pride, which is exactly why the A-League wooden spoon has become a fun each-way market for Australian punters. Here’s how the wooden spoon market works and which clubs could be in the conversation for 2026/27.
What is the A-League wooden spoon?
The wooden spoon is the unofficial “prize” for the club that finishes bottom of the A-League Men regular-season ladder. Because the A-League has no promotion or relegation, it’s purely a matter of pride, but bookmakers price a “to finish bottom” (or lowest-points) market, and it can offer value on a struggling side.
Wooden spoon contenders 2026/27
It’s too early for a settled market, so this is an early read based on last season’s finishing positions and off-season activity rather than posted odds. For live markets, check Ladbrokes, Neds or bet365.
Sides that finished in the lower half last season, Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar among them, are the natural early candidates, while any club that has seen heavy squad turnover, such as Macarthur FC, is worth watching. As always, the wooden spoon is often decided by a poor start and a thin squad rather than pre-season reputation.
How to bet the wooden spoon
Value over favourites: the wooden spoon market is where an under-resourced side can be genuine value, because you’re backing struggle, not success. Watch the early form: prices move fast once the season starts and a bottom side emerges, so an early position on a slow-starting club can pay.
Where to bet
Ladbrokes, Neds and bet365 price A-League finishing-position markets. Compare offers via our best soccer betting sites and best betting sites in Australia guides.
A-League wooden spoon FAQ
Is there relegation in the A-League?
No. The A-League Men has no promotion or relegation, so finishing bottom of the 12-team ladder only earns the wooden spoon, a matter of pride rather than survival.
Which club is favourite for the wooden spoon in 2026/27?
It’s too early for a settled market, but sides that finished in the lower reaches last season, such as Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar, are natural early candidates. We’ll add named favourites once bookmakers post a finishing-bottom market.
Where can I bet on the A-League wooden spoon?
Ladbrokes, Neds and bet365 price A-League finishing-position markets. See our best betting sites in Australia guide for current offers.
More A-League from BettingPro
No wooden-spoon prices are quoted here as markets are not yet posted; candidates are an early read on last season’s ladder and off-season activity. Always check the live price with your bookmaker. 18+. Gamble responsibly.
