Lottery Licence Decision
The UK High Court has dismissed legal challenges against the Gambling Commission’s decision to award the Fourth National Lottery licence to Allwyn.
The ruling confirms the Commission acted lawfully in its handling of the competition, which selected Allwyn to replace incumbent operator Camelot.
The licence award, announced in 2022, was contested by Camelot and technology partner IGT. The claims focused on the evaluation process and elements of the bidding framework, leading to delays in the transition.
During the legal proceedings, Camelot continued operating the National Lottery under interim arrangements.
Court Ruling
In its latest update, the UK Gambling Commission confirmed that the High Court has now rejected the remaining claims. The regulator said it welcomes the decision, which supports the fairness and transparency of the competition process.
The judgment removes a major obstacle to the transition and reinforces the Commission’s approach to large-scale licence awards.
Implications For The sector
The decision clears the way for the full handover to Allwyn under the Fourth Licence, which is set to run for 10 years. The incoming operator is expected to introduce changes aimed at modernising the National Lottery, including digital developments and adjustments to funding distribution.
For the regulator, the ruling provides added certainty at a time of wider reform across the UK gambling sector.
Attention will now turn to the practical delivery of the transition, with continuity of operations and protection of returns to good causes remaining key priorities.
