Allwyn Unveils Major Lotto Changes And UK Launch Of Powerball

Allwyn has announced two significant additions to The National Lottery portfolio, with a revamped Lotto format and the introduction of a UK-specific version of Powerball set to launch this summer.

From 7 June, Lotto will move to a new two-round format, with each £2 line offering players two chances to win within a single draw. The change improves the overall odds of winning any prize from 1-in-9.3 to 1-in-4.9 and is expected to increase the number of annual Lotto millionaires from around 140 to approximately 345.

Under the updated structure, two sets of six main numbers and a bonus ball will be drawn using separate machines in each draw. Players will be able to win in either round, or both, while the jackpot will continue to start at £2m and roll over up to five times before a must-be-won draw.

Allwyn said the revised format is designed to enhance player engagement while maintaining the game’s position as a key driver of large prize wins. The Lotto HotPicks add-on game will also adopt the same two-round structure.

Alongside these changes, Allwyn confirmed plans to introduce a UK-specific version of Powerball, marking the first time the game will be available outside the United States.

The game will be launched in partnership with the Multi-State Lottery Association and will allow UK players to participate in the shared jackpot alongside US players. Tickets will be priced at £4 per line, with jackpots starting at £12m and paid out over 30 years for UK winners.

The UK version will include an additional prize tier for matching two main numbers, offering a fixed £8 payout. Other prize tiers will include a £1m fixed prize for matching five main numbers, while remaining payouts will vary depending on draw outcomes.

Powerball draws will take place three times a week, with tickets available for purchase online and in retail locations ahead of each draw.

Allwyn chief executive Andria Vidler said: “We are delivering on our promise to bring more games, more entertainment and more innovation to The National Lottery. With extensive upgrades to our digital and retail channels now complete, we have a fantastic summer lined up.

“Lotto has always been the best game to play if you want to become a millionaire. Our new Lotto gives players two chances of winning £1m-plus for the same £2 they spend on each Lotto line today, creating hundreds more millionaires every year.

“And with its transformative jackpots, which will be paid to UK winners over time, we’re certain that our UK-specific version of the iconic Powerball game will really capture the UK public’s imagination.”

Allwyn said the introduction of the new games is expected to increase returns to National Lottery-funded projects, with over 30% of ticket revenue directed to good causes. The operator aims to double weekly contributions from £30m to £60m by 2034, with current contributions standing at around £33m per week.