Minas Gerais announces R$ 32 million sponsorship for football clubs

The Minas Gerais government has announced a R$ 32 million sponsorship package for major football clubs in the state, including Atlético-MG, Cruzeiro, and América-MG. This financial support follows a federal provisional measure that prohibited the advertising and operation of betting companies (bets) in Brazil, leaving clubs facing significant revenue losses.

Under the agreement, Atlético-MG and Cruzeiro will each receive R$ 15 million annually, while América-MG will receive R$ 2 million. The funding will be provided through state-owned enterprises, specifically Cemig and Codemig, which will feature their brands on the clubs' uniforms. The resources are expected to reach the clubs' coffers by January 2027.

Governor Mateus Simões described the move as an act of responsibility to support local football and its fans. In exchange for the sponsorship, the clubs have committed to investing in women's football and providing free tickets to low-income students. The state is also in negotiations to extend similar support to regional clubs Athletic and Uberlândia.