Brazil: Rio Government Bans Betting Machines at Gávea Racecourse
Brazil.– September 23, 2025 – www.zonadeazar.com The Rio de Janeiro state government has ordered the removal of betting machines at the iconic Gávea Racecourse. The move sparked controversy among operators, lawmakers, and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which is now questioning the legality of the decree.
Overview
The Gávea Racecourse, a landmark of Brazilian horse racing, has become the center of a regulatory storm following Governor Claudio Castro’s decision to ban the use of betting terminals inside the venue. While presented as a regulatory measure to tighten oversight, the move has been met with strong opposition from the horse racing sector, betting operators, and legal institutions.
Details And Context
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The decree: Governor Castro’s decree mandates the removal of electronic betting terminals used for live and simulated wagering. According to the government, the aim is to increase regulatory control and prevent irregularities.
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Impact on the Jockey Club: The Jockey Club Brasileiro, which manages the racecourse, warned of financial consequences. Betting machines account for a significant share of its revenue, at a time when the club already faces economic challenges.
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Public Prosecutor’s Action: The Rio de Janeiro Public Prosecutor’s Office (MPRJ) has opened proceedings to challenge the decree. Officials argue that the ban may exceed the governor’s legal powers and create legal uncertainty for operators.
Political Reactions
Some members of the Legislative Assembly criticized the move, claiming it undermines the horse racing industry and threatens jobs. Others defended the measure as necessary to bring stricter order to a sector they view as under-regulated.
Economic Consequences
The ban could reduce revenue streams from betting, prize distribution, and maintenance of horse racing facilities. It may also affect workers, trainers, jockeys, and service providers connected to the Jockey Club.
Future Outlook
Unless reviewed, the decree may face legal suspension following the MPRJ’s intervention. Meanwhile, industry stakeholders are exploring alternative funding models to sustain operations at Gávea.
Beyond Rio, the decision signals broader scrutiny of the betting industry by state governments, at a time when Brazil’s national regulatory framework remains under construction. The balance between state oversight, the sustainability of horse racing, and the growth of betting will remain a contentious issue.
Zona de Azar will continue covering the developments as this dispute unfolds at the intersection of sports, economics, and regulation.
Editó: @_fonta www.zonadeazar.com