Flávio Bolsonaro Discusses Online Betting Return with “Grupo Globo” Executives
Brazil.- 20 October 2026 | www.zonadeazar.com Brazilian presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro (PL) reportedly told senior Grupo Globo executives that an agreement already exists within the National Congress to restore regulated online sports betting in Brazil.
The comments were allegedly made during a lunch meeting on 16 October 2026, ahead of the candidate’s televised interview during the presidential campaign.
However, uncertainty remains over whether any potential reopening of the market would also include online casino gaming.
Meeting with Globo’s Senior Leadership
The meeting was attended by João Roberto Marinho, President of Grupo Globo; Paulo Tonet, Vice-President of Institutional Relations; and Senator Rogério Marinho, who coordinates Bolsonaro’s presidential campaign.
According to the published account, the potential return of online betting was the main topic of discussion.
Bolsonaro reportedly indicated that a parliamentary understanding had been reached to restore sports betting, although the specific terms of the alleged agreement have not been disclosed.
Whether online casinos would remain prohibited is still an unresolved issue.
Economic Impact on Grupo Globo
The online betting prohibition introduced through a provisional measure by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has also affected Globo’s commercial interests.
The media group maintains a partnership with MGM Resorts through Boa Lion, the joint venture responsible for BetMGM’s Brazilian operations, which received authorisation from the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting in February 2025.
Alongside its direct involvement in the betting industry, Globo has reportedly experienced a decline in advertising revenue from gambling operators, particularly across sports programming and broadcasts.
Reports concerning the company’s internal operations suggest that the reduction in advertising revenue prompted cost-cutting measures, including the cancellation of certain corporate celebrations.
No official figures have been disclosed regarding the financial losses attributed to the prohibition.
Lula Questions Globo’s Relationship with Betting Operators
On 16 October, during a campaign event in Ipatinga, Minas Gerais, Lula criticised the broadcaster and linked its alleged dissatisfaction to his administration’s decision to prohibit online betting.
The President referred to Globo’s commercial interests in the sector and suggested that they contributed to tensions with his government.
In response, Globo stated that its meeting with Bolsonaro was institutional in nature and maintained that Lula would also have been received had he requested a meeting.
Next Steps and Impact
The comments attributed to Flávio Bolsonaro have renewed discussions about the future of Brazil’s online betting market ahead of the 25 October presidential runoff.
One option under consideration involves restoring regulated sports betting while maintaining restrictions on online casino gaming.
However, the alleged parliamentary agreement has not been formally confirmed, and the prohibition remains in force.
Further political and legislative developments will be important for operators, broadcasters, sports sponsors and Brazil’s wider iGaming industry.
Editó: @fonta
