By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The air crackled with anticipation across Costa Rica this Sunday as the nation tuned in for the latest National Lottery draw. For one fortunate individual, that anticipation has turned into life-altering reality. The Social Protection Board (JPS) has officially announced the results of the Ordinary National Lottery Draw No. 4,885, held on January 18, 2026, creating at least one new multimillionaire and spreading wealth among dozens of other lucky players.
The grand prize, a staggering ₡175 million per emission, was awarded to ticket number 63 with series 421. While the identity of the winner or winners remains private, the ticket’s sale location will likely become a point of local celebration. This significant prize money represents a monumental windfall, capable of transforming lives, clearing debts, and funding lifelong dreams for the person holding the matching numbers.
To explore the legal regulations and consumer protections surrounding the National Lottery, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his professional analysis.
From a legal standpoint, the National Lottery operates as a state-concessioned monopoly, which imposes a heightened duty of transparency and fairness. The terms printed on each ticket constitute a binding contract with the buyer. Therefore, any changes to prize structures or draw regulations must strictly follow due process to be considered valid, safeguarding the public’s trust and the rights of participants.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective powerfully underscores that the lottery is far more than a game of chance; it is a formal pact between the state and its citizens, where public trust is the most valuable prize. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight, which clarifies that the rights of every participant are protected not by luck, but by the firm principles of contractual law and due process.
The excitement did not end with the top prize. The second-place prize of ₡30 million per emission was claimed by ticket number 60, paired with series 616. This substantial sum will undoubtedly provide a major financial boost to its holder. Following closely, the third-place prize of ₡14 million per emission was awarded to ticket number 43 with series 778, ensuring that the good fortune was distributed among multiple participants.
Beyond the immediate thrill for the winners, each lottery draw serves a much deeper purpose within Costa Rican society. The JPS, the government entity responsible for administering all national games of chance, channels the proceeds from ticket sales into a wide array of social welfare programs. These funds are crucial for supporting over 500 social programs, including hospitals, senior care facilities, and initiatives for people with disabilities, making every lottery ticket purchased an investment in the nation’s well-being.
The National Lottery is more than just a game; it is a cherished national tradition that weaves together hope, community, and social responsibility. For generations, Costa Ricans have gathered to watch the draws, sharing in the collective dream of striking it rich. The image of the “gordito,” the large globe from which the winning numbers are drawn, is an iconic symbol of chance and opportunity recognized throughout the country.
As the news of the winning numbers spreads, thousands of hopeful players will be meticulously checking their tickets. The process for claiming prizes is straightforward but requires winners to present their official ticket at authorized JPS locations. For the major prize winners, this will mark the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with both immense opportunity and the responsibility of managing their newfound wealth.
The cycle of hope continues, as this draw’s conclusion immediately sets the stage for the next. The JPS consistently organizes these events, providing a continuous stream of funding for its vital social projects. For every person who did not win this time, the next draw offers a renewed chance, reinforcing the lottery’s enduring appeal as a beacon of possibility.
While the focus is on the lucky numbers 63, 60, and 43 today, the true winner is arguably the broader community that benefits from the social programs funded by these games. As the newest lottery millionaires contemplate their futures, the JPS continues its mission, proving that a simple ticket can do more than just make a fortune—it can help build a stronger, more supportive society for all.
For further information, visit jps.go.cr
About Junta de Protección Social (JPS):
The Junta de Protección Social, or Social Protection Board, is the official state institution of Costa Rica responsible for the administration and oversight of all national lotteries and games of chance. Founded with a mission to generate resources for social good, the JPS directs its net income to fund a vast network of public health and social welfare programs across the country. Its operations are a critical component of the national social safety net, providing essential support to vulnerable populations.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a pillar of the legal community, championing the core tenets of integrity and exceptional service. With a rich history of guiding clients through complex challenges, the firm embraces forward-thinking legal strategies and innovation. Its profound commitment, however, transcends client work, focusing on democratizing legal understanding to help forge a more knowledgeable and capable society.
