ROME (ITALPRESS) – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has clearly stated his intention to introduce stricter measures against betting and has once again criticized the effects of gambling addiction. The government is therefore considering the possibility of issuing a provisional measure to ban online betting and gambling in Brazil, thereby simultaneously prohibiting related sponsorships. Brazilian football clubs have reacted promptly to this development. In a joint statement, they immediately voiced their opposition, citing the potential loss of significant sponsorship revenue and warning that it could spell the “end of Brazilian football.” “The football community is closely monitoring discussions regarding the betting market in Brazil and acknowledges the challenges posed by its expansion. The social impacts—particularly on the most vulnerable—require constant attention from public authorities, companies, and all sectors involved. Therefore, it is essential to improve protection, oversight, education, and prevention measures to mitigate risks and ensure a responsible market,” reads the joint statement from the Brazilian clubs.

“It is important to highlight that, in recent years, investment by licensed betting companies has become one of the sport’s primary revenue sources. This investment has strengthened Brazilian football, enabling it to dominate the South American landscape in competitions like the Libertadores and allowing Brazilian clubs to play an increasingly prominent role,” the clubs write. “This presence is not limited to the biggest clubs. Funds also reach smaller teams, lower divisions, and competitions with less commercial exposure. For many of these organizations—especially those located in the country’s interior—there is currently no other economic sector capable of immediately replacing this investment. These revenues are crucial for maintaining administrative structures, training centers, staff, social projects, and departments that do not generate enough resources to be self-sustaining—such as women’s football and youth talent development—which are the first areas to face cuts when revenue drops sharply,” the manifesto adds.

“Rumors regarding abrupt changes to betting market regulations have sparked immense concern among all the clubs and various sports federations. A sudden change in the rules would reduce the clubs’ investment capacity and create imbalances both within and outside the country. Contracts duly signed, multi-year planning, and financial commitments were all established within a regulatory framework created by the State itself,” the Brazilian clubs conclude.

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews