On 21 September International Game Technology PLC (IGT) brought an application for permission to appeal to the Court of Appeal seeking to overturn the 28 July 2023 High Court decision that IGT did not have the legal standing to pursue a claim for damages against the Gambling Commission regarding the award of the Fourth National Lottery licence to Allwyn Entertainment UK Limited (“Allwyn”).

On 9 January 2024 the Court of Appeal granted IGT’s request to dismiss its appeal, following IGT stating that they will no longer pursue a claim for damages against the Gambling Commission.

Speaking about the decision, the Gambling Commission said:

"We remain resolute that we have run a fair and robust competition, and that our evaluation has been carried out fairly and lawfully in accordance with our statutory duties.

"Our priority is to continue to work to implement our decision for the benefit of participants and good causes. The Fourth National Lottery Licence is due to be granted on 1 February 2024.

"The National Lottery is one of the world’s largest lotteries and since launching in 1994, National Lottery players have collectively raised more than £47 billion for 670,000 good causes across the UK, transforming lives and contributing to the arts, sport, heritage and communities.

"Allwyn has committed to investment in the National Lottery that is expected to deliver growth and innovation across the National Lottery’s products and channels, resulting in increased contributions to Good Causes, subject to the protection of participants and propriety.

"We do not intend to comment further at this stage."