Brazilian Wins Big in US Lottery and Collects Prize Wearing Flamengo Jersey

Frederico Sampaio, a resident of Peabody, Massachusetts, won $1 million (equivalent to R$ 5.4 million) in the US lottery. He collected the prize wearing a Flamengo jersey, showing pride in his favorite soccer team.

Sampaio bought a $5 (R$ 27) "Double Your Money" scratch-off ticket, a popular game. Besides the Flamengo jersey, he wore a United States hat and a camouflage mask when receiving the prize, demonstrating a blend of his Brazilian roots and his new life in the US. The check presentation ceremony took place on July 1st, where Frederico enthusiastically accepted the prize.

Despite the announced $1 million prize, Sampaio will receive less than $650,000. According to Fox 22 News, he chose to take the lump-sum payment, a decision that, while reducing the total amount due to taxes, gives him immediate access to the money. After the initial deduction, he will have approximately R$ 3.5 million, an amount still subject to taxes.

Sampaio plans to use the money to help his family. He told the event organizers that he would invest the amount in his relatives, ensuring a more secure future for them. This victory brings a new perspective for Frederico, who, even in a foreign country, managed to turn a small bet into a significant opportunity.

It wasn't just the Brazilian who benefited from luck. The lottery agency that sold the winning ticket also received a $10,000 bonus (equivalent to R$ 54,600).