The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation is on the lookout for one very fortunate individual or group. A life-changing lottery prize worth a staggering $55 million from a Lotto Max draw remains unclaimed, with the winning ticket sold somewhere in the United Counties of Prescott and Russell.
The Search for the Multi-Million Dollar Winner
According to an OLG announcement on January 12, 2026, the massive jackpot was won in the latest Lotto Max draw. The specific retail location where the ticket was purchased has not been disclosed, but officials have confirmed it was sold within the Prescott-Russell region, east of Ottawa.
The winner or winners have one full year from the draw date to come forward and claim their fortune. While the clock is not yet ticking loudly, the OLG is encouraging all players in the area to double-check their tickets carefully. The corporation has set up a dedicated process for validating such a significant win.
What Happens When a Major Prize Goes Unclaimed?
Unclaimed lottery prizes, especially those of this magnitude, are rare but not unheard of. In the event a prize is not claimed within the 12-month deadline, the funds are redirected. By law, unclaimed winnings are allocated to the Ontario government's Consolidated Revenue Fund.
Lottery officials advise winners to sign the back of their ticket immediately for security and to contact the OLG's prize centre to begin the validation process. For a win of this size, the claim involves rigorous security checks and financial planning advice is typically offered.
The community in Prescott-Russell is now abuzz with speculation. Local retailers are reminding customers to check old tickets, and the story has become a major topic of conversation, with everyone wondering if their neighbor, friend, or family member is sitting on the golden ticket.
