PowerBall jackpots hit R145 million ahead of Tuesday draw

Key facts

• Combined guaranteed jackpots for PowerBall and PowerBall Plus reach R145 million.
• Draw takes place on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, just after 9pm.
• Players choose five numbers from 1 to 50 and a PowerBall number from 1 to 20.
• Quick pick option available for random number selection.
• Tickets can be purchased until 8.30pm on draw days (Tuesday and Friday).
• Tickets also available on selected banking apps; terms and conditions apply.
• Daily Lotto offers a chance to win every evening just after 9.30pm.
• Players must be 18 years or older.

Record jackpot draws set for Tuesday evening

South Africa's PowerBall and PowerBall Plus draws are poised to create another millionaire on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, with a combined guaranteed jackpot pool of R145 million. The draws, scheduled just after 9pm, represent one of the largest prize pools in recent months. The National Lottery operator confirmed that the jackpot totals are guaranteed, meaning that even if no ticket matches all numbers, the prize money will roll over to the next draw. This has spurred a surge in ticket sales across the country.

How the draws work and ticket availability

To play PowerBall, participants select five numbers between 1 and 50, followed by a PowerBall number between 1 and 20. A quick pick option is available for those who prefer random selection. PowerBall Plus, an add-on game, offers an additional chance to win with the same numbers. Tickets are sold until 8.30pm on draw days, which are Tuesday and Friday. On non-draw days, tickets can be purchased from 6am to 11.30pm. Additionally, tickets are accessible through selected banking apps, subject to terms and conditions.

Historical results and Daily Lotto opportunity

Players can access historical winning numbers for PowerBall and Lotto draws online. The National Lottery also operates the Daily Lotto, which holds draws every evening just after 9.30pm. Daily Lotto tickets are available for purchase daily until 8.30pm. This frequent draw schedule provides daily opportunities for players to win, complementing the larger bi-weekly PowerBall draws.

Responsible play and age restrictions

The National Lottery emphasizes that participants must be 18 years or older. The official statement reminds players to "Play responsibly," underscoring the importance of gambling awareness. With the R145 million jackpot draw approaching, lottery officials urge players to purchase tickets early to avoid last-minute queues and ensure compliance with the 8.30pm cutoff.

Outlook for Tuesday's draw

As the 9pm draw time nears, anticipation builds across South Africa. The guaranteed jackpot of R145 million could produce multiple millionaires if winning tickets are sold. Should no ticket match all numbers, the prize will roll over, potentially increasing the jackpot for Friday's draw. The National Lottery will release the winning numbers shortly after the draw, and players are advised to check their tickets promptly.

The bottom line

• The combined PowerBall and PowerBall Plus jackpot is R145 million for the Tuesday, 5 May 2026 draw.
• Draws occur just after 9pm; ticket sales close at 8.30pm on draw days.
• Players must be 18 or older; responsible play is encouraged.
• Quick pick and banking app options are available for ticket purchase.
• Daily Lotto offers additional daily winning opportunities.