São Paulo football clubs face R$ 1 billion loss risk over betting ban

A proposed bill in the São Paulo City Council is causing concern among major football clubs, including Corinthians, Palmeiras, and São Paulo FC. The legislation aims to prohibit the advertising of sports betting companies at both public and private events within the municipality.

Market estimates suggest that the ban could result in a loss of up to R$ 1 billion in advertising contracts for the city's major clubs over several seasons. Currently, the annual fixed sponsorship amounts for the master jerseys of these three clubs alone reach approximately R$ 350 million, excluding performance bonuses and field signage.

The bill, introduced by Councilman João Jorge, recently received a favorable opinion from the Commission on Constitution and Justice (CCJ). The legislator argues the measure is necessary to protect vulnerable families from the financial and mental health risks associated with gambling addiction.