South Africa has its first multi-millionaire of 2026 — and they bank with Capitec.
The National Lottery operator, Ithuba, has confirmed that the sole winner of the massive R65 million Lotto jackpot from the New Year’s Eve draw purchased their ticket via the Capitec banking app.
While fireworks lit up skies across the country to welcome the new year, one individual quietly entered 2026 with a seismic shift in fortune, becoming an instant multi-millionaire. The winning numbers for the draw on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, were 04, 05, 10, 16, 22, 45, with the Bonus Ball 25.
“Ithuba can confirm that the winner purchased the ticket using the Capitec banking app,” a spokesperson said.
However, the identity, location and plans of the new jackpot holder remain a closely guarded secret. The winner has yet to come forward publicly, and Ithuba has not released further details — sparking nationwide speculation: is the winner still unaware of their newfound wealth?
Three additional players each won R25,000 after matching five numbers plus the bonus ball in the same draw.
This win marks a notable milestone for Capitec and highlights the continued rise of digital lottery participation in South Africa. For perspective on just how life-changing these jackpots can be, read The biggest PowerBall winners in South Africa.
ALSO READ: Ithuba debunks “bank-specific winner” myth
How to play Lotto in South Africa (quick guide)
Thinking of trying your luck? Here’s a simplified overview:
- Lotto: Pick six numbers from 1 to 52. A bonus ball is drawn for secondary prizes.
- Cost: R5 per board. Add Lotto Plus 1 and Lotto Plus 2 for R2.50 each, using the same numbers.
- Where to play: At authorised retailers, on the official National Lottery website, via the National Lottery mobile app, through USSD (1207529#), or on selected banking apps including Capitec, FNB, Absa, Nedbank and Standard Bank.
- Draw times: Lotto draws take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9pm, with ticket sales closing at 8:30pm.
- Always verify: While results are widely published, winners should always verify results on the official National Lottery website for absolute confirmation.
What happens after a big win?
Winners of prizes exceeding R50,000 must claim their winnings in person at an Ithuba regional office. All major wins undergo a mandatory 48-hour validation process for security and fraud prevention.
Importantly, Ithuba offers free financial and trauma counselling to jackpot winners — a support system designed to help new millionaires manage sudden wealth responsibly. This service has proven invaluable for previous winners, including a retired Western Cape mother who claimed a R30 million Lotto Plus jackpot last year.
Play responsibly
The lottery is a game of chance. Players are encouraged to:
- Set a spending limit
- Play for entertainment, not income
- Never chase losses
Participants must be 18 years or older.
As South Africa waits to learn more about its newest millionaire, one thing is certain: someone’s 2026 has begun with a historic bang. The only question left is — do they know it yet?
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