Adrian Portelli, the high-profile billionaire who dominated The Block‘s record-breaking finale, has responded to mounting accusations that the auction was “rigged” to secure a win for fan-favourites Maddy and Charlotte. Despite his significant influence over the auction results, Portelli firmly denied any behind-the-scenes manipulation.
Portelli’s high-stakes moves unfolded during Sunday night’s finale, where he surprised viewers by successfully bidding on four out of the five properties. His strategy even included discreetly acquiring one home through a buyer’s agent to avoid tipping off other bidders. In total, Portelli spent a staggering $15.3 million, including a $3.5 million bid on the sisters’ house, securing them a $1.65 million profit.
Billionaire Adrian Portelli. Source: Nine.
Speaking on Nova 100’s Jase & Lauren on Monday, Portelli admitted to strategically influencing the auction order, saying, “We hand-selected the auction sequence to make sure the girls went last so we could get them to win.” However, he was quick to clarify that this decision was not disclosed to the other contestants.
Portelli’s plans were set in motion well in advance, designed to support his promotional platform, LMCT+, which went live immediately after the broadcast. “Me and my team orchestrated the whole thing weeks in advance. We filmed with contestants and set everything up, so we could launch the promotion right after the episode aired,” he revealed.
Despite his admissions, Portelli was adamant that the auction was fair. “I never said The Block was rigged,” he insisted. “The auction is a public event — anyone can participate. Once it starts, it’s out of the network’s hands. If I decide to bid $100 million on a $2 million property, that’s entirely my choice.”
The Block winners, sisters Maddy and Charlotte, with billionaire Adrian Portelli. Source: Instagram.
The intense bidding war stirred controversy among some viewers who questioned whether the finale was staged for dramatic effect. However, Portelli remained defiant, telling critics to “suck it up” and emphasizing, “It was my decision. The girls had the best house, and they deserved the win.”
A spokesperson for Nine Network defended the integrity of the process, telling Mediaweek, “The Block auctions are conducted by licensed real estate agents who must comply with all relevant laws under the supervision of Consumer Affairs.”
Portelli’s latest The Block purchases follow his headline-making 2023 acquisition of another contestant’s home for $4.3 million, which he later offered as a prize through LMCT+. As he continues to make bold moves in reality TV auctions, Portelli is leveraging his visibility to amplify his brand and disrupt the traditional auction scene