Brazilian television executives have reportedly begun lobbying against a potential Government ban on betting operators.
TV Network leadership viewed the measure as a significant financial risk and the concern follows a broader pullback in betting ad spending on linear TV in the second half of the year, after a spike in investment during the World Cup.
The stakes go beyond advertising revenue for some broadcasters: Globo holds a stake in BetMGM, SBT in Bet do Milhão, and Band in BandBet, giving these networks a direct commercial interest in the sector's survival.
Network representatives have reportedly engaged with lawmakers in Brasília, including affiliate owners serving in Congress, to argue that a ban would be unconstitutional if formalized.
Industry figures framed the measure as disproportionate, arguing it would primarily benefit illegal operators without a clear public health rationale.
Brazil's sports betting market closed 2025 with advertising investment exceeding BR1.4bn ($290m) across open TV, pay TV, radio and streaming platforms, underscoring how central visibility has become to competition in the sector.
BetMGM, Betano and Betnacional together accounted for 62% of all TV and radio investment, frequently trading the top position throughout the year, with BetMGM accelerating its spending from April onward to lead in the second half of 2025.
Earlier this year, congresswoman Erika Hilton has called for consumer protection authorities to extend their existing review of betting promotions to major broadcasters including Globo and SBT.
The networks' position also parallels a similar defense of the regulated betting sector recently issued by Brazilian football clubs, a statement that drew largely negative public reaction.
Still, industry voices believe that a total ban is unlikely.
TV Globo ranks as the second-largest commercial TV network in the world by audience and revenue, just behind the American ABC network
