Botafogo and the Fight Against the Prohibition of Betting in Brazil

Hey, everyone! Let’s talk about a situation that’s been making waves in the world of football: the ban on sports betting in Brazil. Recently, Botafogo decided to join the fight and appealed to the Supreme Federal Court (STF) to overturn the Provisional Measure that banned bets in the country. And guess what? Flamengo had already done the same!

What’s This All About?

Botafogo joined a case called Direct Action of Unconstitutionality (ADI) 8027, filed by the National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL). The club wants to be amicus curiae in this matter—that is, a friend of the court, helping to discuss the case. It’s worth noting that the Brazilian Association of Radio and Television Broadcasters (Abert) also asked to participate in this process, as did Flamengo. Makes sense, right?

In its request, Botafogo argues that banning the betting market will hurt sponsorship revenues that are crucial for the development of sports in Brazil. They also mention the need to keep up with their financial obligations, especially because they are in judicial recovery.

What’s Going On?

So far, three ADIs are underway because of the Provisional Measure. Minister Luiz Fux is the rapporteur for ADI 7721, the oldest one in the matter. And just to keep you up to date, it was in this case that Flamengo’s entry was already accepted.

This dispute started in 2024, when the National Confederation of Trade in Goods, Services, and Tourism (CNC) filed the action challenging the betting regulations promoted in 2023. The Fluminense is also involved, since it is a party with an interest in this process.

But it doesn’t stop there! There is also ADI 8024, filed by the National Association for Legal Security in Games and Bets (Anseja), also requesting the overturning of the Provisional Measure, but with no rapporteur defined yet. For now, no other clubs have made any statements in this case.

What Does All This Signal for the Future?

It’s quite possible that more Brazilian clubs will follow the example of the Rio teams and also file actions. After all, in 2025, betting has already generated about R$ 1 billion in sponsorships for Série A clubs, which represents 7,9% of the total revenue of the 20 teams. This is without counting the money companies are spending on naming rights for competitions, advertising on billboards, and TV insertions.

The Provisional Measure set a deadline until 5 of October for removing sponsors and betting advertising from championships. And the moves are already happening: Santos and Novibet have suspended their contract, while 7k notified Vitória of a termination.

In fact, Botafogo has already removed Vbet from its training kits and from social media posts. Flamengo also did the same with Betano. However, so far, there is no confirmation of contract suspensions. And to wrap it up, the National Congress has 120 days to review this Provisional Measure issued by the federal government.

So keep an eye on it, because this story is still going to give a lot to talk about!