Camelot reportedly set to appeal Allwyn’s National Lottery victory
The Telegraph suggests operator to challenge UKGC over awarding of fourth licence to Allwyn on basis of rule changes
Camelot is reportedly set to launch a High Court challenge over the awarding of the fourth National Lottery licence after the incumbent lost out to rival Allwyn.
Earlier this month, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) confirmed it had awarded Allwyn the contract to run the lottery from 2024, bringing an end to Camelot’s legacy since 1994 as the sole licence holder in the history of the National Lottery.
However, according to The Telegraph, Camelot will launch legal proceedings against the UKGC in the form of a judicial review and a High Court procurement challenge.
Camelot is expected to challenge the regulator over a change in the rules following a scoring round which saw it finish in first spot.
Allwyn, which is owned by Czech billionaire Karel Komarek, forecasted raising £38bn for good causes, way above what Camelot anticipated in its bid.
A risk factor discount of up to 15% had been applied to financial projections by the bidders, including the potential returns to good causes.
Camelot is expected to claim that a discount was originally applied but later revoked during the final decision-making process.
An ongoing legal battle would prevent Allwyn from signing the contract to run the National Lottery, which would elongate what has already been a protracted process.
Camelot refused to comment when approached by EGR and instead referred back to CEO Nigel Railton’s comments made at the time of the UKGC’s announcement after Allwyn was selected.
Railton said: “I’m incredibly disappointed by today’s announcement, but we still have a critical job to do – as our current licence runs until February 2024. We’re now carefully reviewing the Gambling Commission’s evaluation before deciding on our next steps.”
A UKGC spokesperson told EGR: “We are confident that we have run a fair and robust competition. We have taken every step possible to ensure a level playing field for all interested parties, to enable us to appoint a licensee who will engage and protect players, run the National Lottery with integrity and ensure the National Lottery continues to support good causes and their contribution to society.”