Brazil’s iGaming industry went from rapid growth to an abrupt shutdown in less than two years. After attracting major operators, generating billions in revenue, and becoming a key market for international expansion, the country introduced a nationwide betting ban on September 25, 2026. Now, operators face a very different question: what comes next?
GR8_TECH’s new Operator Lens: Brazil report examines the consequences of this regulatory shift, including licensing and compliance, player behavior, online visibility, payments, and the market's future.
Among the report’s most notable findings:
-
Thousands of gambling websites are being targeted: Between September 25 and October 9, Brazilian authorities submitted 16,627 gambling-related websites for blocking and requested the removal of 3,691 social media and messaging pages, profiles, and channels.
-
The illegal market was already substantial: Research cited in the report found that three out of four Brazilian bettors had used unauthorized betting websites at least once in 2025, raising questions about where players may turn following the ban.
-
Player preferences remain firmly established: Traditional sports attract 70% of surveyed bettors, while interest in esports reaches 40%. Football remains central, but basketball, volleyball, MMA, and other sports also play important roles.
-
Casino habits tell another story: Slots account for 50% of casino game preferences, followed by crash and instant games at 25% and live dealer games at 24%. Fortune-themed slots, Aviator, Mines, and Plinko are among the familiar player favorites.
-
Brazil remains highly connected: Mobile devices accounted for approximately 63% of web traffic in September 2026. The ban restricts gambling brands' ability to reach players, but it doesn't erase the country's established digital habits.
The report also explores what operators must do to meet shutdown, refund, reporting, and payment requirements. It also outlines three possible paths for Brazil: the ban becomes permanent, the measure is canceled or amended, or courts suspend some restrictions.
It’s essential to understand these developments for operators that have already invested in Brazil, those considering future entry, and businesses operating elsewhere in LATAM. The market's next chapter remains uncertain, but the implications already extend far beyond Brazil's borders.
Brazil’s betting ban raises more questions than answers. Let’s discuss them together.
Join GR8_TECH’s The Locker Room: Brazil After the Ban on October 29 for a private, operators-only workshop led by Yevhen Krazhan, CSO at GR8_TECH. It will be an open conversation about the challenges, possible scenarios, and practical next steps for operators navigating Brazil.
Operators must navigate shutdowns, refunds, reporting, and payment compliance while preparing for three possible scenarios: a permanent ban, cancellation or amendment, or court suspension of some restrictions
