Brazil Moves to Ban Sports Betting Nationwide

Brazil has taken a major step toward ending the legal sports-betting market, with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signing a Measure Provisional (MP) that prohibits fixed-odds betting, commonly known as “bets,” across the country.

The measure, signed on September 25, 2026, covers both sports betting and online games, including activities offered through physical and digital platforms. It also extends to state and district-level authorizations and concessions.

The move marks a significant shift for Brazil, which only recently established a regulatory framework for fixed-odds betting. Several proposals seeking to prohibit or heavily restrict betting had already been introduced in Brazil’s Congress during 2026.

The government has cited concerns surrounding household debt, consumer protection and the social impact of gambling as reasons for the tougher approach. The government has also announced measures aimed at helping families affected by debt.

The crackdown could have major consequences for betting companies, sports organizations and clubs that have relied on betting companies for sponsorship and advertising revenue.

The development is also likely to face legal and economic scrutiny as the government moves to implement the prohibition.

Brazil’s latest decision could therefore mark one of the biggest changes to the global sports-betting industry in recent years, as authorities move from regulation toward an outright nationwide ban.