Mega-Sena 30th Anniversary: Record-Breaking Jackpot Reaches $300 Million
As the Mega-Sena celebrates its 30th anniversary, the Brazilian national lottery’s special concurso (draw) is set to take place on May 24th, with a record-breaking jackpot estimated to reach R$ 300 million (approximately $60 million USD). The Caixa Econômica Federal, the institution responsible for managing the lottery, initially estimated the prize to be R$ 150 million in April, before increasing it to R$ 200 million last Wednesday (13th) and finally reaching the current estimate of R$ 300 million on Saturday.
A Brief History of the Mega-Sena
Launched in 1996, the Mega-Sena has become a beloved institution in Brazil, with over R$ 115 billion in total sales over the past three decades. Since its inception, the lottery has distributed over R$ 317.8 million in prize money, with the largest single prize being R$ 317.8 million in October 2022. The lottery’s success can be attributed to its unique concept, where players have the chance to win a life-changing sum by correctly guessing six numbers between 1 and 60.
How the Mega-Sena Works
To participate in the Mega-Sena, players can choose to guess between 6 and 20 numbers from the available 60. Alternatively, they can opt for the Surpresinha system, which allows the lottery’s computer to randomly select the numbers. A single ticket costs R$ 6, and players can also choose to participate in the concurso through the use of bolões (teams). For the first time, online bolões will be available for purchase up to an hour before the draw.
Ticket Sales and Draw Details
Tickets for the Mega-Sena concurso special can be purchased until 10 PM (Brasília time) on May 23rd through the Loterias Caixa app, the Caixa portal, or at any lottery kiosk across the country. Caixa clients can also make their bets through the internet banking system. The draw will take place on May 24th at 11 AM, and the results will be broadcast live on the g1 website and YouTube channel.
What Happens if No One Wins?
According to the rules set by the Caixa, the main prize does not accumulate if no one wins the jackpot. In this case, the prize money will be divided among the players who correctly guess five numbers (quina). If there are still no winners, the prize will be divided among those who correctly guess four numbers (quadra), increasing the chances of someone winning the top prize.
As the Mega-Sena celebrates its milestone anniversary, it is expected that the record-breaking jackpot will attract a large number of players, making it a thrilling moment for those who have been playing the lottery for years. With the possibility of winning life-changing sums of money, the Mega-Sena remains a beloved institution in Brazil, and its 30th anniversary is sure to be a memorable occasion.
Source: g1.globo.com