Big changes are rolling out for the Lotto game this week, and players now get something extra exciting — two chances to win from a single £2 line.
The updated version of the National Lottery Lotto is officially on sale, bringing a fresh twist to the classic draw that runs every Wednesday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Instead of one draw, players will now face a new two-round format, doubling the action in every game.
Here’s what’s new and why it matters:
- 🎯 Two separate draws per game (each with its own six main numbers + bonus ball)
- 💰 Two chances to win on one ticket — Round 1, Round 2, or even both
- 🔢 You still pick six numbers from 59 balls — no changes needed
- 🏆 More ways to become a millionaire without paying extra
Even better, jackpots are staying strong. They will still start at £2 million, can roll over up to five times, and then trigger a must-be-won draw on the sixth round.
Millionaire prizes are also getting a boost in excitement:
- Match all six main numbers in either round → jackpot of at least £1 million
- Match five main numbers + bonus ball → fixed £1 million prize
Allwyn, the operator, says this update could more than double the number of Lotto millionaires each year, jumping from about 140 to around 345. Even the odds of winning anything improve significantly — from 1 in 9.3 to 1 in 4.9.
The rollout is already underway:
- The first retail ticket for the new format was bought in Great Yarmouth at 5:01 a.m. on Sunday
- The first online entry came from Aylesbury, using an advanced play option for multiple future draws
Allwyn senior winners’ advisor Andy Carter called it a “new era” for Lotto, saying players now get two chances to win for the same price, making the game more exciting and rewarding than ever.
And real winners agree.
Chris and Geraldine Bradley from Wales, who won £3.5 million in 2006, shared their excitement about the change. They said the new format means even more life-changing moments for players:
“We know first-hand just how life-changing a Lotto win can be… giving players two chances to win from a single ticket means more opportunities for that same incredible moment.”
They added that winning as part of a family syndicate was unforgettable, and this new system could help even more people experience that same thrill.
One more update: the Lotto HotPicks add-on game is also switching to the same two-round format and will still cost £1.
With more draws, better odds, and double the chances — this Lotto update is all about turning one ticket into two shots at a dream win.
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