Rio de Janeiro Bans Gambling Advertising in Public Spaces

Brazil.- 15 July 2026 www.zonadeazar.com The City of Rio de Janeiro has enacted a decree banning advertising for sports betting and online gambling platforms across all public spaces where advertising depends on municipal licences, permits or concessions. The measure is intended to reduce public exposure to gambling promotion, particularly among children and teenagers.

News Details

The decree prohibits every form of betting-related advertising, including company names, logos, trademarks, websites, mobile applications, promotional campaigns, bonuses, slogans, mascots and any other element capable of directly or indirectly identifying a betting operator.

The restriction applies to billboards, street furniture and all advertising spaces managed under municipal authority, as well as events sponsored, organised or authorised by the city administration.

Enforcement will be carried out by the Licensing and Inspection Coordination Office (CLF), which will have the authority to order the immediate removal of non-compliant advertising and impose penalties under municipal legislation.

Industry Context

The decision makes Rio de Janeiro one of the first major Brazilian cities to introduce specific restrictions on outdoor gambling advertising, complementing the federal regulatory framework governing fixed-odds betting.

The move also reflects a broader international trend towards limiting gambling advertising exposure for minors and vulnerable groups while strengthening responsible gambling policies and consumer protection.

Statements

Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere said:

“We will not allow outdoor advertising spaces to be used to encourage an activity that has caused debt, compulsive behaviour and negative impacts on families in Rio de Janeiro and across Brazil.”

Next Steps or Impact

The decree takes immediate effect and must be observed in all municipal advertising contracts, licences and concessions. The initiative is expected to influence discussions on similar gambling advertising restrictions in other Brazilian cities and states.

Edited by: @_fonta