A lottery player in North Carolina made headlines by winning the Powerball jackpot worth an estimated $209 million. The winning ticket was purchased on January 21, 2026, marking a significant event in the state’s lottery history.
Details of the Winning Ticket
This victory is particularly noteworthy as it represents the sixth time a Powerball jackpot has been claimed in North Carolina. While the exact location of the ticket purchase remains undisclosed, the winner has the option to choose a cash payout of approximately $95.3 million.
Recent Jackpot History
The jackpot was last claimed on December 24, 2025, when a player in Arkansas won a staggering $1.817 billion, the second-largest Powerball jackpot recorded. Following this recent win, the Powerball jackpot will reset to $20 million for the upcoming drawing.
Winning Numbers
The winning numbers for the January 21 drawing were: 11, 26, 27, 53, 55, and Powerball 12, with a Powerplay multiplier of 2x.
Powerball Gameplay and Odds
- Ticket Cost: $2 per ticket.
- Power Play option: An additional $1, which can multiply your prize.
- Drawing Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 10:59 PM ET.
- Odds of Winning Jackpot: 1 in 292,201,338.
Players select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one number from 1 to 26 for the Powerball. Alternatively, a quick pick option is available for those who prefer a random selection of numbers.
Where to Play Powerball
Powerball is available in 45 states across the U.S., including Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tickets may be purchased at gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Online ticket ordering is also an option through various authorized platforms.
Conclusion
The recent $209 million Powerball jackpot win in North Carolina underscores the excitement surrounding the lottery. As players continue to engage with the game, they hope to replicate this monumental win in future drawings.
