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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 and how the wooden spoon market works.
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 — 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.
