A family from Co Cork has made headlines after winning a staggering €500,000 in the EuroMillions Plus draw, a prize that has left them in disbelief and excitement. The winning ticket was purchased from Lidl in Youghal on April 29, 2025, and the family, who have been playing together in a syndicate for years, finally saw their numbers drawn.
One family member recounted the moment of discovery, saying, "One by one, the numbers started to match, and I just couldn’t believe it. I was in complete shock. While I’ve dreamt about the excitement of winning for so long, I carried on my day like normal – it was certainly a delayed reaction when I think back!" This mix of disbelief and joy is common among lottery winners, who often find it hard to process such life-changing news immediately.
The family plans to use their newfound wealth for a variety of purposes, including a trip around Ireland and Europe, while another member has expressed interest in installing solar panels at their home. This win comes at a time when the National Lottery has announced an exciting opportunity for Irish players to win an extra €250,000 through a special Ireland-only raffle, available in every draw throughout May.
The EuroMillions draw on May 9, 2025, featured a massive jackpot of £106 million, attracting countless hopeful players. For just £2.50, participants not only entered the EuroMillions but also gained automatic entry into the UK Millionaire Maker draw, where new millionaires are made every week. The draw, scheduled for 8:30 PM, was highly anticipated, with many eager to see if they could become the next big winner.
In that draw, the winning EuroMillions numbers were 15, 18, 25, 29, 47, with Lucky Stars 5 and 9. Meanwhile, the Thunderball draw offered a top prize of £500,000, with winning numbers being 9, 23, 25, 26, 35 and the Thunderball number 12. While no one won the EuroMillions jackpot that night, over 61,000 players in Ireland still walked away with prizes, including one lucky player who claimed €255,000 in the Ireland Only Raffle with the winning code I-SBS-10586.
The excitement around the lottery is palpable, especially as it continues to generate significant revenue for community projects across the UK and Ireland. Every week, the National Lottery raises over £30 million for various initiatives, showcasing the positive impact of playing responsibly.
Moreover, the thrill of the EuroMillions is not just confined to Ireland. A Kent dad, known only as Mr. A, became an overnight millionaire after matching the winning raffle code in the EuroMillions draw on March 28, 2025. He also pocketed an extra £2.80 on his ticket, which he plans to use for travel and purchasing a new home.
Andy Carter, a senior winners’ advisor at Allwyn, expressed his delight for Mr. A, stating, "This lucky dad from Kent has become a millionaire overnight, what a life-changing prize. We’re so happy that this prize will have such a positive impact on the winner’s life, with a new home and lots of travel on the cards - huge congratulations!" This sentiment reflects the transformative nature of lottery winnings, which can open doors to new opportunities and experiences.
As the EuroMillions continues to capture the imagination of players across Europe, the anticipation for each draw grows. With substantial jackpots and additional prizes available, players are reminded that even if they don’t win the jackpot, there are still plenty of opportunities to walk away with a significant amount of money.
For example, matching five numbers and one Lucky Star can win players £130,554, while matching five numbers alone can yield £13,561. These enticing prizes keep players returning week after week, hoping to strike it rich.
The National Lottery also ensures that unclaimed prizes are reinvested into community projects, further enhancing the benefits of participating in the lottery. This practice not only supports local initiatives but also creates a sense of community among players, who often feel they are contributing to a greater good.
As the draws continue, players are urged to check their tickets carefully and remain hopeful. With each draw, the potential for life-changing sums of money is just a ticket away. The thrill of the EuroMillions and Thunderball draws is not just about winning; it’s about the dreams and possibilities that come with each ticket purchased.
In summary, whether it’s a family from Co Cork celebrating their €500,000 win or individual players across the UK hoping for a massive jackpot, the excitement of the lottery remains a beloved pastime. With ongoing opportunities to win and contribute to community projects, the allure of the EuroMillions and Thunderball draws is sure to continue, making every ticket a chance at a brighter future.
