Lula Defends Online Betting Ban in Letter to Evangelical Voters
Brazil.- 16 October 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has renewed his support for banning online betting in a letter addressed to evangelical families, released on 14 October 2026 during his presidential re-election campaign.
In the document, Lula linked restrictions on gambling platforms to the protection of Brazilian families, presenting the initiative as part of his administration’s efforts to address social concerns.
His comments come as Brazil’s National Congress continues examining the future of the prohibition, which has generated disagreement among lawmakers and gambling industry representatives.
Lula Connects Gambling Restrictions With Family Protection
In his message, the President highlighted government measures targeting online betting platforms, commonly known as bets in Brazil.
Lula argued that gambling activities are negatively affecting Brazilian households and defended his administration’s response.
The letter also addressed other policy proposals, including replacing the six-day working week with a system providing two weekly rest days.
The communication forms part of Lula’s campaign outreach to evangelical voters ahead of the presidential runoff scheduled for 25 October.
Betting Ban Faces Congressional Resistance
On 25 September 2026, Lula signed Provisional Measure No. 1,394/2026, prohibiting the operation, offering, intermediation and advertising of fixed-odds betting in Brazil.
Although the measure has entered into force, its continuation requires congressional consideration within 120 days.
The proposal has attracted 97 amendments submitted by 24 lawmakers, reflecting different positions on the future of gambling regulation.
Proposed changes include:
- Maintaining regulated sports betting outside the prohibition.
- Retaining restrictions on certain online casino products.
- Revising advertising regulations.
- Introducing transitional arrangements for sports sponsorship agreements.
The amendments must be considered by a joint congressional committee before the legislative process progresses.
Economic and Regulatory Debate
The prohibition has raised concerns among gambling companies and industry organisations.
Key issues include potential effects on:
- Tax revenue.
- Commercial agreements and sports sponsorships.
- Employment within the gambling industry.
- Consumer protection.
- Unauthorised gambling activity.
Industry representatives and lawmakers opposing a comprehensive ban support maintaining a regulated market with enforcement mechanisms and responsible gambling safeguards.
Meanwhile, supporters of the restrictions emphasise the need to reduce gambling-related social harm.
Next Steps and Impact
Lula’s latest comments reinforce his support for eliminating online betting during the presidential campaign.
However, the long-term future of the prohibition remains subject to congressional approval, with lawmakers able to maintain, amend or reject the provisional measure.
The outcome will have implications for gambling operators, sports sponsors and Brazil’s wider iGaming industry.
As legislative discussions continue, the balance between social protection, regulation and economic activity remains central to the debate over the future of online betting in Brazil.
Editó: @fonta
