Brazilian football clubs and federations have warned that a ban or severe restriction on regulated sports betting could affect football finances and sponsorship agreements. It could also impact long-term investment.
The organisations published a joint manifesto titled “The End of Brazilian Football” on September 17. This came as the federal government considers possible changes to Brazil’s betting framework.
Signatories include Flamengo, Fluminense, Botafogo, Vasco, São Paulo, Santos and Palmeiras. The São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro football federations are also signatories.
Clubs Highlight Betting Revenue
The football organisations said regulated betting has become an important source of commercial revenue across Brazilian football.
According to the manifesto, betting investment extends beyond major clubs to smaller teams, lower divisions and less commercially visible competitions. Revenue from the sector supports areas including club operations, training facilities, youth development, women’s football and social programmes.
The organisations also warned that an abrupt regulatory change could affect existing sponsorship agreements. In addition, it could impact financial planning established under Brazil’s current legal framework.
They said changes could reduce clubs’ investment capacity and create uncertainty around multi-year commercial commitments.
Football Sector Defends Regulation
The manifesto argues that maintaining a regulated market provides authorities with mechanisms to monitor operators and protect consumers.
Licensed betting businesses operate under requirements covering taxation, age restrictions, responsible gambling, anti-money-laundering controls and sports integrity.
The football organisations argue that removing the regulated framework would not necessarily eliminate demand for betting. Instead, they said consumers could move toward unlicensed platforms operating outside Brazil’s regulatory and tax systems.
Clubs Call for Stronger Protection
The signatories acknowledged the social risks associated with gambling. Moreover, they said authorities and industry stakeholders should strengthen measures addressing those risks.
Their proposals include greater monitoring, prevention, education and consumer-protection initiatives. Federal, state and municipal authorities would play a role in awareness and prevention programmes.
The manifesto comes as Brazil considers further action affecting the betting sector. The government has not yet announced the final scope of any potential restrictions.
For football clubs and commercial partners, the outcome could affect sponsorship agreements and investment plans. In addition, it could impact revenue structures built around Brazil’s regulated betting market.
