During a Senate plenary session on Friday, Senator Eduardo Girão urged the implementation of a betting ban, citing concerns about the industry’s growing influence on Brazilian soccer.
Brazilian Senator Advocates Betting Ban in Soccer
According to the senator, Brazil’s launch of a regulated online betting sector has caused an increase in addiction. He called for the practice to be banned, explaining the country needs to “stop this humanitarian tragedy that is betting.” Girão explained that only gambling tycoons profit from the practice, but the ones who lose are millions.
In addition, the senator claimed that the harm has already been done and the warning signs are evident. Girão also criticized those in Congress who, in his view, show no responsibility toward the Brazilian population and lack social commitment, as they consider pushing forward votes on the legalization of casinos and bingo halls in the coming weeks.
Girão also argued that the soccer industry’s reliance on betting sponsorships is detrimental to the sport. He has called for the establishment of a Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (CPI) to investigate alleged misconduct by the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF). He further criticized the organization for maneuvering around the issue, claiming that the Supreme Court’s involvement in soccer’s internal disputes should be avoided
However, Girão also gave what he considers a good example of resisting the betting industry’s involvement in Brazilian soccer. He highlighted Flamengo coach Filipe Luís as a prominent example of this. Although the coach leads a team sponsored by betting platforms, Luís has chosen not to take part in any promotional campaigns.
It’s Been a Long Struggle for Girão
Girão has long been opposed to betting in the country, having authored a bill in late 2024, aiming to repeal betting laws. There has been a lot of debate in Brazil’s government about legalizing land-based betting, and a vote on this is allegedly coming up.
In addition to his proposal to ban sports betting, Senator Girão is also the author of Bill PL 3,405/2023, which seeks to prohibit celebrities from promoting betting on sporting events. In addition, Bill PL 2,985/2023 also aims to create more regulation by restricting the times betting ads can be broadcast. Both bills were proposed in April, and this week it is expected that the Brazilian Senate will vote on them.
If the bills are approved by the Sports Commission, they will be sent to the Communication and Digital Law Commission, which will have the final say on whether they are enacted into law.