How it works

Simple for managers.
Fun for everyone.

No spreadsheets. No chasing people for picks. No complicated rules. Just a pool that runs itself.

For managers
Running the pool
For participants
Joining the pool

For pool managers

🏠
Step 01
Create your pool — free to start
Pick your pool size. Tiny pools (up to 5 people) are always free. Larger pools are a one-time fee. No subscription, ever.
✏️
Step 02
Set your entry fee and payment method
Explain to your participants how they confirm their spot in the pool.
📧
Step 03
Invite your group
Paste email addresses and the system sends personalized invitations automatically. Or just copy your link and drop it in a group chat. Takes 30 seconds.
🔒
Step 04
Picks lock at kickoff
On June 11 when the first game starts, picks automatically lock. No late entries, no changes. Fair for everyone.
⚽
Step 05
Enter results after each round
Takes 2 minutes. You mark which teams advanced. The leaderboard updates instantly for everyone.
🏆
Step 06
Crown the winner
The leaderboard tells you who won. You handle the payout directly with your group however you like.
Ready to run your pool?
Free to start. No credit card needed for pools up to 5 people.
Create your pool →

For participants

📩
Step 01
Get the invite
Your pool manager sends you a link — by email, WhatsApp, Slack, wherever. Click it.
✍️
Step 02
Enter your name
No account needed. No password. Just your name so everyone knows who you are on the leaderboard.
⚽
Step 03
Pick your 3 teams
Choose any 3 World Cup teams. Favourites score fewer points. Longshots score more. The farther your teams go, the more your score climbs.
📊
Step 04
Watch the leaderboard
Check back after every round. Your score updates automatically. Share standings with your group. Trash talk encouraged.
🎉
Step 05
Win the pot
If your picks go deep, you win. Collect from your pool manager directly.

Common questions

Does Pick3Pools handle money?
No — never. Entry fees are collected by your pool manager directly. We only charge a one-time setup fee for the software itself.
What happens if I don't pay before kickoff?
If you started a paid pool but haven't completed payment, it locks when the first game begins on June 11. Pay anytime to unlock it immediately.
Can participants change their picks?
No — picks are final once submitted. They lock for everyone at kickoff on June 11.
What is the Equilibrium Rule?
You cannot pick 3 teams all from the Juggernaut tier. Pick at least one team from a lower tier to keep things interesting — pure favourites rarely win anyway.
How does scoring work?
Points are awarded for the best round your team reaches — not cumulative. A Minnow reaching the R16 scores more than a Juggernaut winning the whole tournament. Longshots are always worth more.
Can I upgrade my pool size?
Yes — anytime from your admin dashboard. You just pay the difference between your current tier and the new one.
Your group is waiting. ⚽
Set up in 5 minutes. Bragging rights all summer.
Start your pool — free