Casino
Super Enalotto
Super Enalotto is Italy's primary national lottery, operated by Lottomatica under state regulation. This guide covers the mechanics, prize structure, odds, and draw schedule.
How the Draw Works
Players select 6 numbers from a pool of 1 to 90. The draw generates two supplementary numbers: the Numero Oro (Gold Number) and the Jolly (Joker) ball, both drawn from the remaining 84 numbers.
The draw machine extracts 8 numbers total from the 90-ball machine. The first 6 become the main winning numbers. The next number becomes the Jolly. The Numero Oro is drawn from a separate machine containing 90 balls.
Matching combinations against the main 6 and the two supplementary balls determines your prize tier. The Numero Oro appears on your ticket automatically and does not require a separate selection.
Prize Tiers and Odds
Super Enalotto has six prize categories. Prizes are determined by matching:
Category 1 (6 correct): All six main numbers. This is the jackpot prize, which rolls forward when no winner is drawn.
Category 2 (5+Numero Oro): Five main numbers plus the Gold Number. This tier has fixed odds of 1 in 622,614,630.
Category 3 (5 correct): Five main numbers only, without the Gold Number.
Category 4 (4+Jolly): Four main numbers plus the Joker ball.
Category 5 (4 correct): Four main numbers only.
Category 6 (3+Numero Oro): Three main numbers plus the Gold Number.
The overall probability of winning any prize (categories 1 through 6) is approximately 1 in 54. Smaller prizes (three or four numbers) make up the bulk of wins and return a portion of the wager pool to players.
The jackpot pool receives a percentage of all stakes each draw. When no ticket matches all six numbers, the jackpot increases and carries to the next draw. Rollovers can accumulate for several draws, creating larger jackpots.
Draw Schedule and Timing
Super Enalotto draws occur three times per week: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday evenings. Draw times are set at 20:00 CET (Central European Time). Results are published immediately after the draw closes and are available through the ADM website and licensed retailers.
Ticket sales close 30 minutes before each draw. This window varies slightly by region and sales channel, so verification with your retailer is recommended.
Mathematical and Strategic Context
The odds of matching all 6 numbers from 90 balls (without regard to order) is 1 in 622,614,630. This represents the probability of a single ticket winning the jackpot on a single draw.
The overall odds of winning any prize tier (1 in 54) include all six categories, but most wins fall into the lower tiers (three or four numbers matched). Lower-tier prizes typically return between 40 and 50 percent of total stakes to winners across all categories.
Syndicates divide the cost and prize pool among members. If a syndicate ticket wins the jackpot, the prize is split equally among all syndicate members on record. Syndicates reduce the per-ticket cost and increase the number of combinations played, but they also reduce the individual prize if a win occurs.
Expected value (the mathematical return per euro wagered) on lotteries like Super Enalotto is negative. The house margin is built into the prize pool distribution. No selection strategy, frequency analysis, or system improves the odds of winning any specific draw.
Operator, History, and Regulation
Lottomatica SpA operates Super Enalotto under a concession granted by the Italian state. The lottery is regulated by the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM), the Italian customs and monopoly authority. All draws are conducted under supervision and broadcast to ensure transparency.
Super Enalotto has operated in its current format since 1997, replacing the earlier Enalotto game. Prize payouts are guaranteed by the state concession framework. The ADM publishes annual reports on game performance, revenue, and winner statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Jolly and the Numero Oro?
The Jolly (Joker) is drawn from the same machine as the main 6 numbers and is used to form specific prize combinations (e.g., 4+Jolly). The Numero Oro (Gold Number) is drawn from a separate 90-ball machine and appears on your ticket automatically. Both are supplementary balls that create additional prize tiers beyond matching the main 6 numbers alone.
How is the jackpot determined in Super Enalotto?
The jackpot pool is funded by a percentage of all stakes from every draw. If no ticket matches all six main numbers, the jackpot rolls forward to the next draw and accumulates. The starting jackpot for a new series is set by regulation. Rollovers can continue for multiple draws, allowing the jackpot to grow substantially. Once a winner matches all 6 numbers, the jackpot is paid in full and resets.
What are the odds of winning the Super Enalotto jackpot?
The odds of matching all 6 numbers from a pool of 90 balls is 1 in 622,614,630 per ticket per draw. This is a calculated combinatorial probability and does not change. The overall odds of winning any prize (all six tiers combined) is approximately 1 in 54.
When do Super Enalotto draws happen?
Super Enalotto draws three times per week: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Draws occur at 20:00 CET. Ticket sales close 30 minutes before each draw. Results are published immediately after the draw and verified through the ADM.
How are winnings taxed in Italy?
Italian lottery winnings are subject to taxation. Prizes won by Italian residents are taxed at 8 percent on amounts exceeding a threshold determined by the ADM. Tax treatment varies by residency and may differ for non-residents. Players should consult local tax regulations or a tax advisor for jurisdiction-specific guidance.
Can I play Super Enalotto as part of a syndicate?
Yes. Syndicates allow players to pool resources and play multiple combinations. All members share costs and any winnings proportionally. If a syndicate ticket wins the jackpot, the prize is divided equally among registered members. Syndicates reduce the individual cost per combination but also reduce the individual prize if a win occurs.
