Two friends in London, Ont., ended their year in ways they never imagined — as newly minted multi-millionaires.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) announced Thursday that Greg S. and Krys P. won $80 million Lotto Max jackpot from the December 30, 2025 draw.
Additionally, the pair also won $403,285.40 in the combined Lotto Max game during the same game, meaning they took home a total of $80,403,285.40. The winning ticket was bought at Happy Day’s Mini Mart on Aldersbrook Road in London.
OLG said the two men immigrated to Canada from Europe in the 1990s and met in an English as a second language class; they’ve been playing the lottery together for several years, buying tickets only when the jackpots are high and choosing quick-dial numbers with an eight-number combo game.
Greg said he checked his numbers with a pen on paper and again with the OLG app.
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“I saw the words Big Winner and the number 80, but I didn’t believe it at first. It was unbelievable! I checked it again and saw the eights and zeros and commas and knew it was $80 million!” he said.
Greg’s wife then called Chris.
“I just woke up. She asked me if I checked our ticket yet. I checked with my wife and saw that all the numbers matched. I was very happy and also very nervous,” he said, adding that he then sped off to Greg’s house.
“I went to Greg’s to check the ticket together and shake his hand. He was the one who always took the time to go to the store and buy our tickets.”
OLG said Greg recently retired from a manufacturing job and Krys worked 12-hour shifts in a factory for 28 years.
Both men are now planning for the future and have called their winnings something that will benefit generations to come.
“We came to Canada many years ago in search of the Canadian dream and a better life. Over the years, we have worked hard and built lives we are proud of. We have been fortunate to own our homes and provide our children with education and opportunities for the future,” said Greg.
“However, we’ve always dreamed bigger and played the lottery for many years. Winning this prize feels unimaginable – it’s amazing!”
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