Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said he does not expect Congress to overturn the provisional measure that bans fixed-odds betting and online games in Brazil, while acknowledging that the measure will not eliminate illegal gambling.
Speaking during an interview with Flow Podcast on October 1, Lula said he expected the measure to withstand congressional review and defended his decision to introduce the ban shortly before the 2026 elections.
Lula Defends Betting Ban
Provisional Measure No. 1.394 was published on September 25 and immediately prohibited the exploitation, offering, intermediation and advertising of fixed-odds betting across Brazil. The measure covers both sports betting and online games, including services offered by companies based outside Brazil to users in the country.
Lula said conversations with people affected by gambling-related debt influenced his decision. He argued that the government needed to address the financial and social impact of betting on consumers.
The president also acknowledged that banning regulated operators would not necessarily eliminate gambling, as illegal platforms could continue operating.
Ban Enters Implementation Phase
The government has already begun implementing the measure. Bettors had until 11:59 p.m. on October 5 to withdraw funds voluntarily from betting platforms.
From October 6, betting websites and applications covered by the measure must become unavailable. Financial institutions will then process the return of remaining eligible balances to bettors between October 9 and 14.
The measure also establishes a transition process for operators whose existing authorisations will be terminated.
Congress Still Must Review Measure
Although MP 1.394 took effect immediately, Congress must decide whether to maintain it, amend it or reject it. The Senate said the measure will undergo congressional review under the provisional-measure process.
The political context has also changed since the measure was introduced. Brazil held the first round of its presidential election on October 4. TSE results showed Flávio Bolsonaro receiving 47.03% of valid votes and Lula receiving 45.16%, sending both candidates to a runoff scheduled for October 25.
The future of Brazil’s betting framework therefore remains tied to both the congressional review of MP 1.394 and the wider political process.
