State
Florida Lottery announces $800 million Mega Millions® jackpot-winning ticket sold at Bradenton store after historic drawing
Florida – A single ticket purchased in Bradenton has turned into one of the biggest lottery wins of the year after matching every number in the July 28, 2026, Mega Millions® drawing. The Florida Lottery announced that the lone jackpot-winning ticket captured the estimated $800 million prize, making one Florida player the sole winner of the massive jackpot.
According to lottery officials, the winning ticket was sold at the Wawa convenience store located at 14510 State Road 70 East in Bradenton. The ticket was a Quick Pick, meaning the numbers were randomly generated rather than selected by the player.
To win the jackpot, the ticket matched all five white ball numbers along with the Mega Ball. The winning numbers drawn were 34, 48, 49, 59, and 70, while the yellow Mega Ball number was 12.
Although the advertised jackpot is estimated at $800 million, the winner also has the option of taking a one-time lump-sum cash payment instead of receiving annual installments. The Florida Lottery said the estimated cash value of the prize is approximately $344.2 million.
Lottery officials noted that Florida Mega Millions jackpot winners have 180 days from the date of the drawing to claim their prize. However, those who wish to receive the one-time cash payment must submit their claim within 60 days of the drawing.
Florida Lottery Secretary Reginald Dixon celebrated the historic win and highlighted the broader impact lottery sales have across the state.
“We are thrilled to congratulate Florida’s newest Mega Millions jackpot winner on this incredible, life-changing moment,” said Florida Lottery Secretary Reginald Dixon. “This win is an exciting reminder that every ticket carries the possibility of a dream come true. We are especially grateful to our valued Florida Lottery players, whose continued support helps generate funding for education across our state. Every ticket purchased contributes to creating brighter futures for Florida’s students.”
While one fortunate player claimed the top prize, officials reminded Floridians that claiming lottery winnings depends on the amount won. Prizes worth $599 or less can be redeemed at any authorized Florida Lottery retailer or a Florida Lottery District Office.
Prizes ranging from $600 to $1 million may be claimed in person at a Florida Lottery District Office, either through a walk-in visit or by appointment, for eligible games that do not offer annual payment options.
Jackpot prizes exceeding $1 million, along with prizes that include an annuity payment option, must be claimed at the Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee.
The latest jackpot adds another milestone to Mega Millions’ history in Florida. Since the state joined the multi-state game in 2013, Mega Millions has generated more than $1 billion to support education initiatives throughout Florida. During that same period, the game has awarded more than $1 billion in prizes to over 87 million winning players, according to the Florida Lottery.
Revenue from lottery ticket sales plays a significant role in supporting educational programs across the state. Officials say every ticket purchased helps fund education while also giving players the opportunity to compete for prizes ranging from small cash awards to life-changing jackpots like the one won this week.
The Florida Lottery continues to encourage players to check their tickets carefully following each drawing. Information about games, winning numbers, prize claims, and drawing schedules is available through the Florida Lottery’s website and mobile application. Drawings can also be viewed online through the Lottery’s official website and YouTube channel.
As excitement spreads across Bradenton and beyond, attention now turns to the mystery winner who purchased the lucky Quick Pick ticket. Whether the individual chooses to step forward immediately or wait until closer to the claim deadline, one thing is already certain—the July 28 drawing has created Florida’s newest multimillionaire.
Lottery officials say they remain committed to maintaining the integrity and security of every game while continuing to maximize revenue that supports education throughout the Sunshine State. For now, the winning ticket from a Bradenton Wawa stands as the only one to match every number, transforming an ordinary lottery purchase into an extraordinary financial windfall worth an estimated $800 million.
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