The National Lottery has confirmed a major change to the Lotto that begins this week. Allwyn, the National Lottery operator, says the shake-up will more than double the number of millionaires created each year.
New Two-Round Format
Lotto's biggest ever change is expected to double the number of winning millionaires, Allwyn has announced. The operator has introduced a new two-round format for the main Lotto draw, alongside a new UK version of Powerball.
Starting Wednesday, June 10, each draw will feature two rounds, giving players two chances to win. Two sets of six main balls and a bonus ball will be drawn using two separate draw machines. This means a player could win in round one, round two, or both rounds, all from a single Lotto line.
Improved Odds and More Millionaires
Allwyn said the change improves players' chances of winning any prize from one in 9.3 to one in 4.9. It is expected to more than double the annual number of Lotto millionaires from around 140 to around 345. The draws will continue to take place at around 8pm every Saturday and Wednesday.
Andria Vidler, CEO of Allwyn, 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, as we are now able to bring these exciting new games to our players."
UK Version of Powerball
Vidler added: "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."
By offering a wide range of complementary games, Allwyn aims to ensure there is something for everyone, returning the magic and building the player base. This will raise more money for Good Causes, helping to reach the goal of doubling weekly returns from £30m to £60m by 2034, with £33m a week currently raised.
