Justin Simporios wins the largest individual lottery prize in Canadian history—an incredible $80 million Lotto Max jackpot. The Surrey, B.C. resident made the life-changing news public on May 15, just days after checking his ticket.
Before sharing his story, Simporios emailed his resignation to the logistics company where he worked. Although he valued his team, he knew it was time to move on. “My team and my boss are amazing people,” he said. “But I needed to let them know I was stepping away.”
Not only is this win historic for Simporios, but it also sets a national record. According to the B.C. Lottery Corporation, this is the largest jackpot ever awarded to a single person in Canada.
The moment of realization came around 10:30 p.m. on May 9. After hearing the winning ticket had been sold in Surrey, Simporios joked with his wife about the possibility of winning. Understandably, she wasn’t amused.
“She said, ‘Can you stop that joke right now? Your daughter is sleeping,’” he recalled with a smile.
Despite her response, he quietly grabbed a flashlight and checked the numbers from bed. As he matched one number after another, the truth began to set in. He had won.
Now that Justin Simporios wins this record-breaking jackpot, he plans to make the most of it. First, he will help his family by paying off his sister’s medical school debt. In addition, he hopes to retire his mother early and give back to the community that supported him.
“I’ve been struggling,” he admitted. “I’m a full-time worker and a father. Every day I’ve had to balance earning a living and spending time with my daughter.”
Thankfully, he no longer has to choose between the two. “Now I’ll be able to spend more time with my wife, my daughter, and my family,” he said. “I feel truly blessed.”
When asked about his first big purchase, he answered without hesitation. “We’re going to meet with a financial adviser right away,” he explained. “But after that, the first thing will always be a dream home.”
He plans to buy that home in Metro Vancouver, although the exact location hasn’t been decided yet.
The B.C. Lottery Corporation praised his positivity and composure. While many lottery winners focus on material gains, Simporios has emphasized family, generosity, and gratitude. His story continues to inspire people across the country.
Clearly, this win is about more than money. For Simporios, it represents freedom, time, and the chance to build a better future for those he loves.
