Brazil Betting Ban Faces Pushback From Clubs at Supreme Court Hearing
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Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court held a public hearing on the country’s fixed-odds betting ban on November 3, 2026. Government ministers defended the ban, while clubs, athletes and betting groups warned of financial losses and illegal gambling.
The hearing was called by Justice Luiz Fux after Provisional Measure 1.394/2026 banned the activity. No decision was made at the hearing.
Justice Minister Wellington César Lima e Silva said harm to public health, public security and Brazilian families justified the ban. Health Minister Alexandre Padilha said demand for public healthcare related to gambling disorder rose more than 200% between 2018 and 2026.
The Justice Ministry also requested the removal of more than 36,000 illegal betting sites between September 25, 2026 and October 29, 2026.
Football clubs focused on their sponsorship deals. Fluminense put the impact on the club at R$200 million across sponsorship, stadium advertising and broadcast rights. Botafogo said the 10-day adaptation period was not enough.
The Brazilian Olympic Committee said payments from betting companies made up about R$130 million, or 20% of its planned 2027 budget.
Betting association ANJL said deposits fell 32% in the last three analysed months of 2026 compared with 2025. It also criticised the suspension of licences without compensation.
Fux said some issues might be resolved outside the courts. He added that if the Supreme Court has to decide, it should act with rationality and prudence.