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Brazilian Senator Eduardo Girão has renewed his efforts to ban sports betting in the country, particularly focusing on football. His campaign is rooted in concerns over the social harms linked to gambling and what he describes as a growing threat to the integrity of the sport.
During a recent Senate session, Girão described the spread of online betting as a “humanitarian tragedy,” linking it to rising cases of gambling addiction, household debt, and deteriorating family stability. He argued that the normalization of sports betting has made it dangerously accessible, especially to vulnerable populations.
Girão emphasized that the prevalence of betting platforms—often promoted by celebrities and sports teams—has significantly contributed to unhealthy gambling habits and financial distress among Brazilian citizens.
A central point in Girão’s argument is football’s deepening relationship with the betting industry. He expressed concern that the sport’s increasing reliance on betting sponsorships compromises its integrity, blurs ethical lines, and undermines public trust.
To address this, Girão is advocating for a Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (CPI) to investigate the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) and its alleged failure to ensure transparency and accountability in dealings with betting partners.
Beyond a full betting ban, Girão is proposing new legislative measures to curb the influence of betting on media and advertising. His initiatives include:
• Prohibiting the use of celebrities or athletes in betting advertisements
• Restricting the time slots during which gambling ads can be broadcast
• Introducing broader limits on the visibility of betting brands across sports events and platforms
These proposals are intended to reduce the normalization of betting, particularly among young viewers and at-risk individuals, by limiting the reach and appeal of promotional campaigns.
Girão’s stance has sparked debate across political and public spheres. Supporters applaud his firm opposition to what they see as unchecked industry influence, while critics argue that prohibition could push gambling into the shadows, leading to reduced oversight and increased illegal activity.
Regardless of the outcome, the Senator’s call for reform has added urgency to Brazil’s national conversation around sports betting. As the industry continues to expand, the tension between economic opportunity and social responsibility is becoming increasingly central to policy discussions.
Sources: iGaming Business, SCCG Management
