Evoke has extended the deadline for Bally’s Intralot to clarify whether it intends to make a formal takeover offer for the William Hill and 888 owner.
The London-listed operator said discussions between the two companies are continuing, with Bally’s Intralot now given until 5pm BST on 8 June 2026 to announce either a firm intention to make an offer or that it does not intend to proceed. The previous deadline was 18 May 2026.
The extension keeps alive a potential deal that would reshape part of the UK-facing betting and gaming market, but Evoke has not confirmed that a firm offer will be made.
Talks Continue Beyond Initial Deadline
Evoke first confirmed on 20 April 2026 that it was in discussions with Bally’s Intralot over a possible offer for the entire issued and to-be-issued share capital of the company. The proposal was priced at 50p per Evoke share and was expected to comprise an all-share combination with a partial cash alternative.
Under UK takeover rules, Bally’s Intralot had initially been required to state its intentions by 18 May. Evoke has now agreed to extend that timetable at Bally’s Intralot’s request. iGaming Business reported that the deadline could be extended again, provided Evoke agrees to any further extension.
At this stage, the matter remains a possible offer rather than an agreed transaction. Evoke’s earlier market statement said there could be no certainty that an offer would be made, or as to the terms on which any offer might be made.
Strategic Review Remains In Focus
The talks come after Evoke launched a strategic review in December 2025. The review included consideration of a possible sale of the group, or parts of its assets and business units, as the company looked at ways to maximise shareholder value.
Evoke owns major UK-facing betting and gaming brands including William Hill, 888 and Mr Green. Its position in the UK market makes the possible transaction especially relevant for British gambling industry observers, even though Bally’s Intralot is an international buyer.
The group has also been dealing with wider pressure from changes to UK gambling duties. Remote Gaming Duty rose from 21% to 40% from 1 April 2026, a change cited by iGaming Business as one of the market pressures affecting UK-facing operators.
No Deal Confirmed
The new deadline gives both sides more time, but it does not guarantee a transaction. Bally’s Intralot can still decide not to make an offer, and Evoke has not said whether its board would recommend any final proposal.
The potential offer terms may also change. Previous reporting stated that Bally’s Intralot reserved the right to vary the price, form and mix of consideration, and the transaction structure if it proceeded.
For now, the main development is procedural but significant: Evoke’s board has allowed takeover discussions to continue past the first deadline. Investors and industry observers will now be watching whether Bally’s Intralot returns with a firm bid before the revised 8 June cut-off.
