On 23 September 2026, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (“DCMS”) opened a consultation on a proposal to prohibit third-party operators licensed under the Gambling Act 2005 (the “2005 Act”) from offering bets on Powerball.

Background

Powerball was introduced in the UK on 21 July 2026 as part of the National Lottery’s portfolio of draw-based games. Prior to Powerball’s introduction in the UK, a number of operators have historically and continue to offer bets to UK based customers on the outcome of the Powerball draw in the US.

Under section 95 of the 2005 Act, the holder of a betting licence is prohibited from offering a bet on the outcome of a lottery which forms part of the National Lottery. Since Powerball’s recent introduction to the UK, customers have been eligible to place bets on the outcome of the draw via third party operators. DCMS’ proposal is to prohibit licensed third-party operators from offering these bets, bringing Powerball into line with other National Lottery products.

The proposal is intended to reduce customer confusion, protect National Lottery funding for good causes and to bring Powerball into line with other National Lottery products.

Proposed Implementation

The proposed prohibition is intended to be implemented through a new general licence condition that must be attached to relevant betting operating licences by the Commission (as imposed by the Secretary of State through section 78(1) of the 2005 Act.

The restriction would apply only to Powerball, so operators could continue offering bets on other non-National Lottery products, such as the Irish Lotto. Alternative options – including voluntary action, mandatory contributions to good causes and a ban on all lottery betting – were considered but viewed as less effective or disproportionate.

Consultation Response

The government is inviting responses from the betting and lottery sectors, affected operators, players and other interested parties.

The consultation closes at 11:59pm on 4 November 2026. Responses can be submitted through the government’s online consultation form which can be accessed here.

Please get in touch with us if you have any questions about the consultation.