The Mega da Virada 2024 broke all records, delivering an astounding prize of R$ 635.4 million, marking the highest payout ever seen by the Brazilian lottery. On December 31, at 20:25, Caixa Econômica Federal revealed the winning numbers for this year’s draw, which captivated the nation and prompted millions to buy tickets.
This year, eight winning bets managed to get all six numbers correct. The lucky winners will each take home R$ 79,435,770.67. Among the victors, two winning tickets originated from the Federal District, where participants collaborated through group bets, also known as bolões, with contributions of R$ 35 and R$ 8,500, respectively.
The other state winners include cities like Curitiba, Nova Lima, Osasco, and Pinhais. Each of these locations saw its share of jubilant winners, with many attributing their success to the increasingly popular practice of participating in group bets. Those bolões from Brasília and Pinhais stood out, allowing participants to enjoy significant windfalls, boosting their financial fortunes dramatically.
According to Caixa, the winnings reflect the heightened excitement surrounding the holiday lottery, prompting more than just the standard participation this year. “The largest prize ever recorded by the Caixa lotteries was R$ 635,486,165.38,” stated Caixa Brasil. This remarkable figure showcases not only the potential for life-changing wins but also the cultural allure of the Mega da Virada during Brazil’s festive season.
Aside from the main winners, more than 2,201 bets across the country matched five of the winning numbers, earning R$ 65,895.79 each. The third-tier winners—those who matched four numbers—numbered around 190,779 and will each get R$ 1,086.04. The excitement didn’t just finish with the top winners; the large swath of secondary winners also underlines the lottery’s popularity and far-reaching impact.
The numbers drawn for this landmark event were 01, 17, 19, 29, 50, and 57, initiating celebrations and hopes among millions who participated. More than R$ 2.49 billion was collected during this year’s Mega da Virada draw, presenting a 2.6% increase from 2023. Such figures highlight not only the lottery's status as Brazil’s premier gambling event but also its significance as a festive highlight as families come together during the end of the year.
Caixa emphasized the community spirit of these draws, particularly with the bolões, which allow groups to share the excitement and the financial benefits of the lottery. For example, the bolão with the highest number of shared tickets, organized out of Pinhais, accounted for 50 shares, rewarding each participant with R$ 1,588,715.41. It reflects the camaraderie and shared hope associated with playing the lottery.
For potential future participants, it's noteworthy to mention the mechanics of how to play. Each Mega-Sena ticket requires selecting six numbers from 1 to 60, with the minimum stake costing R$ 5. This simple but exhilarating process transforms ordinary tickets to possible life-changing wins.
Looking forward, participants can prepare for the next Mega-Sena draw scheduled for January 4, 2025, which offers exciting new possibilities and the thrill of hoping to change lives once again. Tickets can be purchased at lottery outlets nationwide and online, making it convenient for everyone to try their luck.
The winners will have 90 days to claim their prizes at Caixa Econômica Federal agencies. Authorities urge winners not to forget this deadline, as unclaimed prizes will revert to the National Treasury, allocated to the Student Financing Fund (Fies). There is much at stake, reminding all hopeful players of the chance not just to win great fortunes but to transform lives.
Whether or not one wins, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the Mega da Virada serve as one of Brazil's most cherished holiday traditions, weaving together the hopes and dreams of countless citizens eager for the chance to change their lives forever.