If you’ve come across BOTB, you might be curious about why some people win while others don’t. The competition often sparks plenty of discussion, with advice, strategies, and opinions shared across forums and social media.
However, there are also many misconceptions about how BOTB really works and what it takes to win. Some say there are tricks to beating the system, while others believe only newcomers stand a chance. The truth is, the process is fairly straightforward—though it can sometimes seem confusing online.
This blog post is here to clear up those rumours, separate fact from fiction, and focus on what truly matters if you’re considering entering BOTB competitions.
BOTB, short for Best of the Best, has been running pay-to-enter competitions across the UK since 1999. What really sets it apart is the chance to win clear, high-value prizes like cars and cash. You can easily see all the current prizes on their official website, so you know exactly what’s up for grabs.
The whole entry process is online and straightforward. You simply choose a prize, purchase a ticket, and then select where you think the ball is positioned on the “Spot the Ball” image. Ticket prices usually range from around £1.50 for smaller prizes to about £3.00 for the bigger ones, giving you some flexibility over how much you want to spend.
Since there’s a fee to enter, BOTB operates under a licence from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). This means they must follow strict rules designed to keep competitions fair and protect players. All important information—like prize details, ticket prices, and closing dates—is clearly shown on their website so you can make well-informed choices if you’re considering entering.
“Spot the Ball” is central to all BOTB competitions. If you choose to participate in BOTB, after choosing your prize and buying a ticket, you’re shown a football match image with the ball digitally removed.
Your job is to mark where you believe the centre of the missing ball should be. This is done directly on the photo using an online tool.
When the competition closes, a panel of judges—typically former referees or football professionals—reviews the same photo without access to entrant selections. Each one marks their own spot. The agreed coordinates decided by the panel choose the winner, whose entry is closest.
You can buy more than one ticket if you want to mark different spots. This process ensures there is only one main winner, and the rules are easy to follow.
If you choose to participate in BOTB, your chances of winning depend mainly on how many tickets are entered in that particular draw. Each ticket counts as one entry.
Unlike traditional lotteries or casino games with fixed odds, BOTB’s chances vary according to ticket sales. For example, if 150,000 tickets are sold for a prize, your chance with one ticket is one in 150,000.
Buying additional tickets can increase your chances, but it also means spending more. BOTB publishes full entry figures and recent winners on their website, so you can always check how many tickets were sold and who won.
Understanding these odds can help you make more informed decisions about whether you want to participate.
As explained earlier, winners are chosen by a panel of independent judges. Each judge marks where they think the ball’s centre was located, and their combined judgement sets the official winning spot.
If more than one person picks the closest point, a random draw selects the ultimate winner from those tied entries.
BOTB often records these judging sessions and shares videos online to maintain transparency and demonstrate the fairness of the process.
Occasionally, rumours about cheats or hacks for BOTB pop up. The truth is that no shortcuts or guaranteed methods exist.
The outcome depends entirely on the independent panel’s decision, so there’s no fixed answer or automated way to win. BOTB, being licensed by the UKGC, follows strict rules to ensure compliance and fairness.
Using unauthorised tools or software is against the rules and can result in disqualification. If you’re considering participating, it’s always best to trust the official process rather than chasing shortcuts.
BOTB is a legitimate, UK-licensed competition provider that must comply with the UKGC’s standards. The judging panel’s decisions are based on their expertise and are made independently.
The judges usually have professional football or refereeing backgrounds, and the selection process is often filmed and shared for transparency, as mentioned earlier.
All winners are published on the BOTB website, allowing anyone to verify the results and ensuring that nothing is hidden.
BOTB is not rigged or fixed; every ticket has a fair chance of winning, regardless of how many are bought.
BOTB regularly shares stories of past winners on their website and social channels. These accounts often include the winner’s background along with details of their prizes, whether cars or cash.
Prizes are awarded only after judging is complete and eligibility is confirmed. Some winners’ surprise moments are captured on video, giving a glimpse of real reactions.
Winners come from a variety of backgrounds, and every competition follows the same fair process. If you’re interested in knowing more, you can read current winner stories anytime on the official site.
Whether you’re following the latest results or thinking about entering, understanding how BOTB works and what to expect can help you make more informed decisions. If you choose to play, always remember to participate responsibly and within your means.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.