PowerBall Winner Bags R163 Million Jackpot in Life-Changing Draw

South Africa is celebrating its newest millionaire after a PowerBall winner claimed an unbelievable R163,552,190. The draw, held on 21 October 2025, made history as the biggest jackpot of the year and one of the largest ever.

Another lucky player won R31,018,628 in the PowerBall Plus draw. Ithuba, the National Lottery operator, confirmed both results and congratulated the winners on their life-changing moment.

A Record Win for 2025

The R163 million jackpot came after 21 consecutive rollovers, with excitement building across the country each week. Players rushed to buy tickets in the hope of joining the growing list of South African millionaires.

According to Charmaine Mabuza, CEO of Ithuba:

“A jackpot of this size captures the imagination of the entire country. It’s a special moment for South African players, and we encourage everyone to participate responsibly and continue dreaming big.”

This win now ranks in the top three biggest jackpots in South African lottery history, behind the R232 million record set in 2019, still the largest lottery prize ever won in Africa.

How the Jackpot Grew So Fast

Each time no one matches all five numbers plus the Powerball, the prize rolls over and grows. With 21 rollovers in a row, this jackpot surged past R160 million, attracting new players nationwide.

There is no cap on how high the PowerBall jackpot can climb, which is why South Africa continues to see such massive wins.

What Happens After You Win

Ithuba provides more than prize money. Every high-tier winner receives free financial and trauma counseling through its Winner Services Division.

These sessions help winners plan their finances, understand taxes, and adjust emotionally to sudden wealth. Winners have 365 days to claim their prize and must show a valid ID and the original winning ticket.

Understanding the Odds and Playing Responsibly

Winning the Powerball jackpot is incredibly rare. The odds of matching all five numbers plus the Powerball are 1 in 42,375,200, according to Stats247.

Because the odds are so long, experts remind players to treat the game as entertainment, not income. Ithuba frequently promotes responsible play and urges South Africans to set spending limits and play for fun, not pressure.

South Africa’s Other Lucky PowerBall Winners

This win follows several remarkable success stories. In September 2023, an Empangeni resident from KwaZulu-Natal took home R69,284,942.70 from a PowerBall Plus draw using a R45 manual ticket.

That winner, like many before, received free financial advice and emotional support from Ithuba. The operator says these services are key to helping people manage their new wealth responsibly.

Are Lottery Winnings Tax-Free?

Yes. Lottery winnings in South Africa are tax-free, meaning the PowerBall winner receives the full payout.

However, any interest or investment income earned from those winnings is taxable under standard SARS rules.

Financial experts suggest meeting with a certified planner soon after claiming to structure savings and avoid unnecessary tax risks.

How to Claim a Powerball Prize

If you think you’ve won, here’s what to do:

1. Keep your ticket safe and sign the back immediately.
2. Check the numbers on Ithuba’s official platforms.
3. Visit an authorised lottery office with your ID and ticket.
4. Fill in a claim form and verify your win.
5. Access free counselling and financial planning if your prize is above R50 000.

Big prizes are usually paid out within a few working days once verification is complete.

Smart Tips for New Powerball Winners

1. Protect your privacy.

Avoid telling everyone right away. Ithuba offers private appointments for high-tier winners to keep your identity safe.

2. Get professional advice.

Before spending, speak to a financial adviser and lawyer. They’ll help you plan investments, manage taxes, and protect your assets.

3. Plan for the future

Create a realistic budget. Set aside money for savings, debt repayment, and long-term security before thinking about luxury purchases.

4. Stay responsible.

It’s easy to get caught up in excitement. Remember, the lottery should be a game, not a habit. If you feel pressured to play more, step back and seek support.

PowerBall’s Impact on South Africans

The Powerball continues to change lives and create hope. Since its launch, the game has turned hundreds of ordinary people into millionaires and contributed millions to social and community projects.

This R163 million PowerBall winner proves that dreams can come true, but success depends on how wisely you manage the opportunity.

The Lasting Excitement Around Powerball

Few games bring South Africans together like the PowerBall. Every draw creates anticipation, and every winner reminds us that even one ticket can change everything.

As Ithuba’s CEO said, the PowerBall is about more than money; it’s about optimism and imagination. South Africans are encouraged to keep dreaming, play smartly, and always do so responsibly.

Check Out: Ithuba Powerball Results for 21 October 2025