The lottery operator has now completed the Gambling Commission’s Selection Questionnaire as part of the first stage of the tender process to compete for the UK’s fourth National Lottery licence.

Sazka Group, who operates lotteries in Austria, Czech Republic, Greece and Italy, is the first operator to confirm entry.

Camelot’s current licence expires in 2023 and is expected to enter after operating the lottery since 1994.

Sazka Group CEO Robert Chvatal, said: “As a leader in operating lotteries across Europe, Sazka has made no secret of the fact that we would be thrilled to operate the UK National Lottery.

“We trust that our submission will demonstrate our professional track record and technical capabilities.

“We are in the process of hiring a team in the UK and are building the partnerships and relationships necessary to deliver in due course a compelling case which is based on a clear understanding of the needs and desires of all stakeholders and customers the UK National Lottery touches.”

In August, the Gambling Commission made several changes to the lottery licence as it announced the competition process, including the winning bidder having a 10-year fixed term licence, and will provide greater flexibility to increase returns to good causes.

Applicants that pass through the first stage will receive the Invitation to Apply (ITA) to begin their applications, with the winning applicant to be announced in September 2021.