The Labouchère system — also known as the cancellation system or split Martingale — is a negative progression strategy that uses a custom number sequence to determine bet sizes. Unlike simpler systems, it gives you a specific profit target and a structured path to reach it. It demands more attention at the table, but offers greater control over your session.
What Is the Labouchère System?
The Labouchère is a cancellation-based betting system for even-money roulette bets — Red/Black, Odd/Even, or 1-18/19-36. You start by writing down a sequence of numbers that adds up to your desired profit. Each bet equals the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence. When you win, you cross out both numbers. When you lose, you add the lost amount to the end of the sequence.
The system completes — and your target profit is reached — when all numbers in the sequence are crossed out. This structure means you only need to win about one-third of your bets to achieve your goal, which is the system’s main attraction.
Setting Your Profit Goal
Before placing any bets, decide how much you want to win. Then create a number sequence that adds up to that target. The sequence can be any combination — it determines your bet sizes and session length.
| Target Profit | Example Sequence | Starting Bet | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| €10 | 1 – 2 – 3 – 2 – 2 | €3 (1+2) | Conservative, smaller bets |
| €15 | 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 | €6 (1+5) | Moderate progression |
| €20 | 2 – 4 – 4 – 4 – 6 | €8 (2+6) | Aggressive, higher stakes |
| €10 | 2 – 2 – 2 – 2 – 2 | €4 (2+2) | Flat, predictable bets |
How the System Works
The rules are simple but require tracking your sequence on paper or in your head:
Full Game Example
Target: €10 profit. Starting sequence: 1 – 2 – 3 – 2 – 2. Betting on Red.
| Spin | Sequence | Bet | Result | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 – 2 – 3 – 2 – 2 | €3 | Win | Cross out 1 and 2 |
| 2 | 2 – 3 – 2 | €4 | Loss | Add 4 to end |
| 3 | 2 – 3 – 2 – 4 | €6 | Win | Cross out 2 and 4 |
| 4 | 3 – 2 | €5 | Win | Cross out 3 and 2 |
| 5 | empty | — | Done | Target reached: +€10 |
Result: 3 wins and 1 loss = €10 profit in 4 spins. The example shows a 75% win rate, but over longer sessions only ~33% wins is enough to complete the sequence — that is the structural advantage of the Labouchère.
The Reverse Labouchère
The Reverse Labouchère flips the system: add numbers after a win, cross out after a loss. This converts it into a positive progression — similar in philosophy to the Paroli. The advantage: losses are capped at your original sequence total. The disadvantage: you need a sustained winning streak to see meaningful profit.
Advantages & Risks
- Clear profit target before you start
- Only ~33% win rate needed to complete the sequence
- Flexible — fully customizable sequence
- Linear progression, not exponential like Martingale
- Mentally engaging — feels like a puzzle
- Losing streaks extend the sequence rapidly
- Long losing runs can push bets toward table limits
- Requires tracking — pen and paper recommended
- Does not change the 2.70% house edge
- Harder to use at fast-paced live tables
Practical Tips
Start small. Use a low target and flat sequence for your first sessions. A sequence like 1–1–1–1–1 (target: €5) keeps bets between €1–€3.
Use pen and paper. The system is hard to track mentally. Write down your sequence and physically cross out numbers as you go.
Set a stop-loss. If your sequence grows to 10+ numbers, consider stopping. The bets are getting too large relative to your original goal.
Play on a European table. The single zero wheel gives you better odds (2.70% edge vs 5.26% on American roulette). On a French table with La Partage, even-money bets drop to just 1.35%.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What win rate do I need for the Labouchère?
Approximately 33%. Because each win cancels two numbers and each loss adds only one, you only need to win one in three bets on average to complete the sequence. On even-money bets with a 48.6% real win probability (European wheel), this is statistically achievable in most sessions.
Is the Labouchère better than the Martingale?
For most players, yes. The Labouchère grows linearly while the Martingale grows exponentially. After 8 losses on a €5 base, Martingale demands €1,280 per bet — Labouchère might ask €30-50. The trade-off: Labouchère requires tracking and patience; Martingale is mechanical.
Can I use the Labouchère at live dealer tables?
Technically yes, but it is harder. Live tables spin every 60-90 seconds, leaving little time to update your sequence between rounds. Most Labouchère players prefer online play where they can pace themselves and consult their notes calmly.
What happens if my sequence keeps growing?
Set a hard stop-loss before starting. If your sequence grows beyond 10-12 numbers or your bet approaches your session limit, accept the loss and stop. Continuing past that point is how Labouchère sessions turn catastrophic — the same way Martingale sessions do, just slower.
Does the Labouchère beat the house edge?
No. Like every betting system, the Labouchère does not change the underlying 2.70% house edge (European) or 5.26% (American). It structures bet sizes — that is all. Long-term expected value remains negative. The system’s value is session management, not profit.