International Game Technology (IGT) has announced that the Judging Commission has completed its thorough evaluation of the technical and economic proposals submitted by LottoItalia, the consortium it leads, for the Italian National Lottery license. The consortium, which includes Allwyn, Arianna 2001, and Novomatic Italia, is anticipated to be officially awarded the license by Italy’s Customs and Monopoly Agency (ADM) within the next 35 days. This license is expected to span nine years, extending through November 2034.
The LottoItalia consortium has presented a substantial financial commitment, reportedly raising €2.23 billion ($2.51 billion) in upfront fees as part of their bid to secure the license. In its recent Q1 2025 financial results, IGT revealed that it had earmarked €500 million specifically for this licensure should their consortium’s bid succeed. This marks a significant investment into the Italian market, where IGT also recently received its sixth consecutive responsible gaming certification, underscoring its commitment to regulatory standards.
Robust Investment and Operational Strategy
IGT’s CEO, Vince Sadusky, highlighted the importance of this investment, stating: “The €2.23 billion investments in upfront fees reflect the significant value of the new license and IGT is confident that the investment will enhance our revenue and profit potential.” Sadusky further emphasized that the company plans to drive growth through innovative launches coinciding with the start of the new license period. He also noted ambitions to expand iLottery sales significantly, leveraging momentum to enter additional areas such as Italian B2C iCasino offerings, sports betting, and broader digital gaming sectors.
The consortium’s financial commitment involves a license fee of €2.23 billion, payable in three installments between the award date and April 2026. IGT expects to pay the first two installments of €500 million and €300 million during 2025, with the remaining balance scheduled for 2026. The license terms include a concession rate of 6% on total wagers and an additional 8% gross fee collected digitally as a distributor fee.
Operational control will remain with IGT, while consortium partner Allwyn Entertainment continues to contribute a proportional share of license fees and capital investments.
Continuing a Legacy of Innovation and Collaboration
Marco Sala, IGT’s Executive Chair of the Board, expressed pride in the consortium’s achievements and the continuation of a long-standing relationship with the ADM: “The Italian Lotto concession is one of the world’s most important lottery contracts. IGT and its predecessor companies have successfully managed the license for 30+ years through constant innovation and the introduction of cutting-edge technology. The award is very gratifying, and we are honored and excited to continue working with the ADM for nine more years.”
Allwyn CEO Robert Chvatal also shared his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “We’re thrilled to continue our strong partnership with IGT in Italy for another nine years. We’re pleased that Allwyn’s positive contribution to the consortium, including our proven track record of modernising and growing lotteries across Europe, will continue to support IGT’s exemplary stewardship of an important Italian national asset. We look forward to working together to grow the Italian Lotto, while developing innovative solutions to support responsible play.”
Competitive Context and Additional Industry Developments
Among the competitors for this prestigious license was Flutter Entertainment, which submitted a rival proposal through its Sisal subsidiary. However, it appears that Flutter’s bid has not been successful in this round.
In other recent developments, IGT expanded its global footprint by securing a land-based gaming vendor license in the UAE following certification by the General Commission for Gambling Regulation Authority (GCGRA) in early May.
Meanwhile, Allwyn faces regulatory scrutiny from the UK Gambling Commission related to its contractual obligations concerning the UK Lottery license, with potential financial penalties under consideration.
Upcoming Investor Communication
IGT has scheduled a conference call and webcast for May 20, 2025, at 8:00 am ET to discuss the lottery license award and other company updates. Interested parties are encouraged to register in advance via IGT’s Investor Relations website.
Source:
IGT Led Consortium Will Be Proposed to Be Awarded the Italy Lotto License Through November 2034, IGT Investor Relations, May 19, 2025