Stanley J., an Ontario resident, claimed a $25 million Lotto Max jackpot on September 17, 2026 after buying a ticket at a Food Basics store in Woodstock. The win represents the top prize for the national Lotto Max draw held that week.
Lotto Max, a Canada‑wide lottery game, regularly offers multi‑million‑dollar jackpots that are drawn twice weekly. Winners receive the full advertised amount when the prize is not shared, and the game’s structure allows for a single ticket to capture the entire jackpot.
The ticket that produced the winning numbers was purchased inside the grocery store, a common venue for lottery sales across the country. Upon verification of the ticket, officials confirmed the $25 million prize and began the standard process for awarding the winnings.
Ontario lottery authorities noted that the jackpot size aligns with recent trends in the Lotto Max series, where prize amounts have risen in response to increased ticket sales and the game’s promotional features. The win adds to the province’s record of large lottery payouts in recent years.
While details about Stanley J.’s personal plans for the money have not been disclosed, the payout will be subject to applicable taxes and financial regulations. Winners of such prizes typically have the option to receive the amount as a lump‑sum payment, which is the most common method for Lotto Max jackpots.
The Woodstock Food Basics store will likely receive recognition for being the point of sale where the winning ticket was bought, a distinction that often draws media attention and increased foot traffic. The store’s management confirmed the transaction and expressed congratulations to the winner.
Lottery officials reminded players that participation is voluntary and that tickets must be purchased from authorized retailers. They also reiterated the importance of checking numbers promptly after each draw to ensure timely claim of any prizes.
The $25 million award underscores the scale of Lotto Max jackpots and the potential for life‑changing wins for Canadian players who participate in the game.