Group of eight strangers in Canada splits massive lottery prize

A group of eight strangers from Quebec proved that teamwork makes the dream work after a massive lottery win.

The Laval residents are starting 2026 on a high note, splitting the $5-million Lotto 6/49 Classic Jackpot, won in the Dec. 13. draw.

Group wins typically involve families, friends or coworkers, but these eight strangers came together to beat the odds by purchasing a Formule Groupe ticket. This lottery ticket allows you to buy one or more shares in a group formed by a retailer.

This one was sold in seven shares (one of the winners is a couple) and will be split between the eight players, each getting $714,285. The winners received their respective shares of the $5-million prize during the holidays and at the beginning of January.

Lise Berthelet and Jean Henry, a couple in their sixties, won the first of seven shares of $714,285.

Berthelet bought the winning lottery ticket while getting gas. “Come! You’ve got to see this!” she told her partner upon discovering the amount they’d won.

Annie Godmer found out she’d won the Lotto 6/49 Classic Jackpot by checking her ticket using the Loto-Québec app a few days after the draw.

When she saw the results, she was in disbelief. “No way… There’s a problem!” she said.

Thinking it was a mistake, she restarted her phone before checking her lottery ticket again. Godmer plans to buy a truck, among other plans, with her windfall.

Gervasio-Jason Pampena validated his lucky ticket at a retailer one week after the draw.

When he saw the amount appear on the screen, he said to himself, “Looks like I won $700,000!” He was able to claim his share just before Christmas.

Anouar Kebaili and Uthayakumar Muttiah each won $714,285. Their respective plans are to invest and pay off their mortgage.

Wrolph Marco Alce, another member of the winning group, plans to use his share of the lottery prize to buy a property.

Michelle Ouimet claimed the last share of the jackpot on Jan. 5. She’s considering investing it for her retirement.

The winning lottery tickets were purchased at the Petro-Canada convenience store located at 1914 Boulevard Des Laurentides, in Laval. The retailer will receive a one per cent commission of $50,000.

All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources.

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