Fans Accuse Adrian Portelli of Manipulation Over $8M Giveaway Delay
What was billed as Australia’s largest-ever non-lottery giveaway has been overshadowed by controversy, with fans accusing billionaire Adrian Portelli of deliberate manipulation after technical issues delayed the Boxing Day draw for 24 hours.
The giveaway, offering a choice between $8 million in cash or five homes from The Block 2024 season, faced significant backlash as the LMCT+ platform crashed during the live stream, leaving 75,000 viewers disappointed. Many fans have dismissed Portelli’s explanation of “technical glitches,” alleging foul play instead.
Outrage Erupts Online
Social media platforms lit up with criticism, with fans claiming the delay was a ploy to drum up publicity or manipulate the draw’s outcome.
One user wrote, “Convenient how the platform crashes when 75,000 people are watching. This feels less like a glitch and more like a stunt.”
Another fan posted, “Portelli made millions off this promotion, and now we’re supposed to believe it was just a ‘database issue’? Give us a break.”
Even during the rescheduled draw, some viewers expressed skepticism. “How do we know this wasn’t tampered with? Transparency is key, and we didn’t get that,” one commenter said during the live event.
Portelli Defends the Process
Portelli has vehemently denied the allegations, insisting that the delay was necessary to ensure the integrity of the draw. In an email to fans, he explained:
> “The increase in traffic overwhelmed our back-end database. I made the decision to delay the announcement to ensure everything was done to the highest standards. The draw was closed at 8pm sharp on Boxing Day, so no one could sneak in late entries.”
Public Relations Disaster?
The backlash has marred what should have been a triumphant moment for Portelli, who purchased the The Block properties for $15 million to stage this historic giveaway. While some fans have rallied in support of the businessman’s transparency, others remain unconvinced.
“I’ve entered many giveaways, but this one feels shady,” one fan wrote. “It’s not just about the glitch; it’s about trust.”
Holly’s Big Decision
Meanwhile, 34-year-old Holly from Ballarat, the eventual winner, has taken time to decide whether to claim the cash or the properties. However, even her victory has done little to quiet the storm, as fans demand answers about the draw’s delayed execution.
With Portelli’s reputation on the line, it remains to be seen whether the controversy will fade—or leave a lasting mark on his promotional empire.
