The National Lottery's Lotto game is set for its most significant transformation since its inception in 1994, offering players two chances to win from a single line of numbers, though smaller prize payouts are being substantially reduced.
How the New Dual Draw System Works
Starting this Wednesday, June 10, every £2 Lotto line will enter two separate draws. Each draw features two sets of six main balls and a bonus ball selected using distinct machines. Players can win in the first round, second round, or both rounds from just one line. The familiar 59 balls remain in play, and draws continue on Wednesdays and Saturdays as usual.
National Lottery operator Allwyn states that the odds of winning any prize will nearly double from one in 9.3 to one in 4.9. The number of Lotto millionaires is expected to rise from approximately 140 per year to around 345.
Changes to Prize Tiers
- Three balls: £10 (down from £30)
- Four balls: £50 (down from £140)
- Five balls: £1,000 (down from £1,750)
- Two balls: £1 (previously a free lucky dip)
Despite lower fixed prizes, players have two routes to millionaire status: matching five numbers plus the bonus ball guarantees £1 million, and hitting all six main numbers guarantees at least £1 million jackpot. Jackpots start at £2 million and can roll over up to five times before being forced out.
Lotto HotPicks and Powerball Launch
Lotto HotPicks also adopts the two-round format at £1 per play. Additionally, Allwyn has announced a UK version of Powerball, previously only available in the US. This will be the UK's first lottery game offering jackpots exceeding £1 billion. UK Powerball players select five main numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26, with a Lucky Dip option. The cost is £4 per line, and jackpot winnings are paid over 30 years. The launch date awaits final regulatory approval.
An Allwyn spokesperson commented: "This change will strengthen Lotto's position as the nation's 'millionaire maker' – going from it creating around two millionaires a week to over six. Because people can now win more than once from a single £2 Lotto line and will win more often, regular players will likely see a net benefit in prize money over the year."
