Brazilian lawmakers are advancing two bills that would ban betting sponsorships in football and impose sweeping restrictions on gambling advertising across the country.
The proposals, currently under discussion in both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, were defended this week during an event organized by the Parliamentary Front for the Promotion of Mental Health.
The projects would prohibit betting operators from sponsoring football clubs, federations, sports competitions and broadcasts. Advertising would also be banned across television, radio, streaming platforms, social media, newspapers and public transport.
The proposals have gained support from politicians across both left- and right-wing parties, including members of PT, PSOL, Republicanos and PL, reflecting growing political pressure around the social impact of betting in Brazil.
“We want to combat illegal betting and make legal betting subject to stricter regulation than tobacco in Brazil,” deputy Pedro Campos said during the event.
The texts also seek to ban online casino-style products classified as “high-risk,” including slots, roulette, crash games and simulated virtual sports.
Additional measures target customer acquisition practices commonly used by operators. Free bets, cashback offers, bonuses and promotional credits would all be prohibited, alongside advertising language suggesting betting is a source of income or financial recovery.
Payment methods linked to debt would also face restrictions. Under the proposals, operators would be prevented from accepting deposits made through credit cards, overdrafts, loans or other credit-based products.
Companies, influencers and platforms that fail to comply could face fines ranging from BR100,000 ($19,870) to BR50m, as well as possible suspension in Brazil.
Brazil’s sports betting sector continues expanding its marketing presence as operators invested more than BR1.4bn in advertising during 2025 across television, radio, streaming and digital channels.
Brazil’s Constitution and Justice Committee recently approved a bill establishing a National Policy for Comprehensive Support for Individuals and Families Affected by Gambling and Betting Practices
