The EuroMillions jackpot had soared to £155.5 million (€177.7 million) ahead of last Friday’s draw after a run of 15 rollovers, and two participants matched the full winning line to pocket £77.8 million (€88.8 million) each. One of the winners came from Spain and the other from the UK.
It was quickly announced that the UK player had staked a claim for the money, but a ticket validation appointment needed to be set up before the prize could be paid. It has now been confirmed and the winner has opted to keep their identity private.
UK players have a choice between anonymity and publicity when they win big prizes, but whatever they decide they will receive support from the National Lottery as they adjust to their newfound wealth.
'Amazing Prize'
Andy Carter, the Senior Winners’ Advisor at the National Lottery, said: “It is great to be able to help this ticket-holder celebrate their amazing life-changing prize. They are the tenth biggest winner this country has ever seen and we will now support them as they begin to enjoy their stunning win.
“In addition in Friday’s draw another seven players won £1M – so check your tickets as there are still life-changing prizes to be claimed."
A Europe-wide raffle, known as the European Millionaire Maker in the UK, created 25 new millionaires last Friday. Five of the winners came from the UK, while the UK Millionaire Maker took place as usual and guaranteed that two players would win £1 million. Of the seven prizes, four are still waiting to be claimed.
The EuroMillions jackpot rolled over on Tuesday night, pushing the top prize up to £25 million (€28 million) for the next draw. Fans of the game can choose numbers online or go to authorised retailers in participating countries.