For the first time, UK players can enter the US Powerball draw, with a £300 million jackpot up for grabs. The iconic American lottery, known for creating some of the world's biggest winners, is now open to British entrants through the National Lottery. As the draw unfolds at the Powerball studio in Florida, UK players can watch the results come in – but how does it work, and what are your chances?
The US Powerball requires players to choose five main numbers from 1 to 69, along with one Powerball number from 1 to 26. Alternatively, you can opt for a Lucky Dip, where numbers are randomly selected for you. There are ten different ways to win, with the overall odds of winning any prize standing at 1 in 14. The draw takes place regularly, and results from the latest draw were expected around 4am UK time.
“UK players can now enter the US Powerball lottery for the first time - here's how it works and what you need to know.”
Meanwhile, the UK's own Euromillions remains a popular option. Euromillions draws happen every Tuesday and Friday, with a ticket costing £2.50. The jackpot can rise to €190 million (approximately £167 million). Every Euromillions ticket also enters you into the UK Millionaire Maker game, which guarantees a £1 million winner in every draw. The Thunderball game offers a £500,000 top prize, with players matching five numbers from 1 to 39 and a Thunderball from 1 to 14.
Access to the US Powerball gives UK players a chance at even larger jackpots. However, the odds of hitting the top prize are significantly longer than Euromillions, though the overall odds of winning any Powerball prize are 1 in 14. For comparison, Euromillions has overall odds of about 1 in 13 for any prize, but specific odds vary.
Q: How do I play Powerball from the UK? You can enter through the National Lottery, selecting five main numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26, or choose a Lucky Dip for random numbers.
Q: What are the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot? While the overall odds of winning any prize are 1 in 14, the odds of winning the jackpot (matching all five main numbers and the Powerball) are roughly 1 in 292 million.
Q: How does Powerball compare to Euromillions? Euromillions has a maximum jackpot of €190 million (£167 million) and costs £2.50 per line, with draws twice a week. Powerball's current jackpot is £300 million, but its odds are much longer. Both offer multiple prize tiers.
The latest Powerball draw has now taken place, and results are available. For future draws, UK players can continue to enter and monitor results. As always, play responsibly.