Lotteries

Lotto betting on Betfair works in a similar way to fixed-odds sports betting. Each lotto market has its own set of odds, which are shown before you confirm your bet.

When you choose one or more numbers, you’ll see the odds and estimated return update instantly. If your selections land exactly as required, your bet is settled as a winner.

For example, if you back one number in a draw at odds of 6/1 and it’s drawn, you’ll usually receive six times your stake in winnings, plus your original stake back (subject to Betfair’s rules and any applicable deductions). If you try to land more numbers – say three, four or five – the potential returns are higher, but the chances of hitting them all drop.

Different draws have different totals of balls and formats, so the odds for the same type of bet can vary between games. A 1-ball bet on a draw with 59 balls will naturally be less likely to land than a 1-ball bet on a draw with 39 balls, and the prices will reflect this.

All selected numbers must be drawn in that specific game for your bet to win, according to the option you’ve chosen (1 ball, 2 balls, etc).

Odds are based on the structure of the draw (how many balls, how many are drawn) and the type of bet you place, not on “lucky” or “popular” numbers.

Returns can differ between draws on the site, even for the same kind of bet. Always check the market page before confirming.

Betfair offers a range of popular lotto-style draws from the UK and overseas. The exact line-up can change, but you’ll typically find options such as:

●UK 49s (lunchtime and teatime draws)

●Irish Lotto and associated draws

●Daily Millions / Daily Million Plus (Republic of Ireland)

●Spanish and other European draws

●Other international specials, when available

Each draw has its own format. A standard lotto draw usually has a set pool of main balls, from which a fixed number are drawn. Some games include bonus balls that may or may not count for specific markets, depending on Betfair’s rules for that game.

A few things to look out for on the Betfair site:

●Number of balls in the draw – This affects the underlying probability and therefore the odds.

●How many balls are drawn? Some draws select more numbers than others.

●Whether bonus balls count – Certain markets may exclude bonus balls, others may include them. Check the market rules tab for each game.

●Draw frequency – Many lotto draws are held once or twice a day, some just a couple of times a week. Betfair will show upcoming draw times so you can plan your bets.

If you’ve never used Betfair’s lotto markets before, the basic process is straightforward.

1. Register or Log In

You’ll need a Betfair account to place lotto bets. If you’re new, you’ll be asked for some personal details and to verify your identity in line with UK gambling regulations. Existing customers can simply log in as normal.

2. Deposit Funds

Once your account is set up, add funds using one of the available payment methods. Go to the Cashier section, choose your preferred option and complete the deposit.

3. Open the Lotto Section

From the main menu, locate the Lotto or Lotto Specials section. This lists all available draws and upcoming times.

4. Choose a Lotto Game

Click the draw you’re interested in, for example, UK 49s or Irish Lotto. You’ll see the next available draw time and the different bet options (1 ball, 2 balls, etc).

5. Pick Your Bet Type

Decide how many numbers you want to try to match:

●1 Number

●2 Numbers

●3 Numbers

●Or more, depending on what the specific draw offers

The potential payout will usually increase as you add more required matches, but the likelihood of winning falls.

6. Select Your Numbers

Choose your numbers manually from the grid, or use any quick-pick/random options Betfair may provide for that game. Make sure you’ve selected the correct number of numbers for the market you’re betting on.

7. Enter Your Stake & Check the Odds

Type in your stake. The site will display the latest odds and an estimated return if your bet wins. Double-check:

●The draw date and time

●The bet type (e.g. 2 numbers from the main draw only)

●Your chosen numbers and stake

8. Confirm Your Bet

When you’re happy, click to place the bet. You’ll usually see a confirmation message, and the bet will appear in your bet slip or “My Bets” section.

9. Wait for the Draw & See the Result

When the draw takes place, the official numbers are announced. Betfair then settles lotto bets based on those results and the market rules. If your selections land exactly as required, your bet is paid out automatically to your account balance.