Brazil presidential candidates clash over online betting rules

Candidates in Brazil’s 2026 presidential race are increasingly divided over the regulation of the online betting market. Current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has expressed interest in implementing measures to limit online sports betting, citing concerns regarding the accessibility of gambling platforms to children. His administration is exploring options including the prohibition of using welfare payments for betting.

Flávio Bolsonaro has proposed similar restrictions, focusing on ensuring that funds intended for household needs are not diverted to gambling. Other candidates hold more extreme or alternative views: Romeu Zema and Renan Santos have called for a complete ban on online betting, while Ronaldo Caiado advocates for increased financial monitoring and advertising limits. Augusto Cury has suggested using high taxes on betting companies as a deterrent.

The political debate coincides with a massive expansion of the gambling sector in Latin America. The regional online gambling market is estimated to be worth between $5.3 billion and $7.24 billion, with significant growth expected through the early 2030s. In this market, sports betting remains the primary driver, accounting for over 56% of regional online gambling revenue in 2024.