Two friends have come forward to claim the $80 million Lotto Max jackpot from a ticket sold in London, Ontario, lottery officials confirmed Wednesday. The winning ticket was purchased at a local retailer and had remained unclaimed for over a month, sparking widespread curiosity and speculation across the province.
Winners Remain Anonymous
The pair, who have chosen to remain anonymous, presented their winning ticket at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) prize centre in Toronto. According to OLG representatives, the winners are long-time friends who have played the lottery together for years. They plan to split the prize evenly and have already consulted financial advisors.
Community Reaction
The announcement has brought relief to the London community, where many residents had been checking their tickets since the draw. The store that sold the winning ticket will receive a one percent retailer bonus, amounting to $800,000. Local businesses and residents expressed excitement, with some hoping the windfall will benefit the area through charitable donations.
- The jackpot was the largest ever won in London, Ontario.
- It was the second $80 million Lotto Max jackpot in 2026.
- OLG encourages all players to sign tickets immediately after purchase.
Unclaimed Ticket Concerns
Before the claim, the unclaimed ticket had prompted OLG to issue reminders for players to check their numbers. Unclaimed prizes revert to future jackpots or promotional draws after one year. The winners came forward just weeks before the deadline.
