The football federations of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have published a manifesto opposing a potential ban on online casinos in Brazil. The document, titled 'The End of Brazilian Football', has been backed by nine leading clubs: Corinthians, Palmeiras, Santos, São Paulo, Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense, Vasco da Gama and Cruzeiro.
The move follows plans by the Lula administration to issue a provisional measure repealing Article 3 of Law 14.790. That article classified online casino games as fixed-odds betting. For many operators, this segment accounts for the bulk of revenue.
The clubs said investment from licensed bookmakers has become one of the main sources of income for Brazilian football. Teams at all levels receive funding, including lower-division clubs and regional sides. The money supports administrative structures, training facilities, staff, social projects, women's football and youth academies.
The federations warned that a ban would not stop betting but would push players onto illegal platforms. Such sites do not pay taxes, do not enforce limits, offer no protective measures and do not cooperate with authorities. Regulation has moved Brazil out of the top ranks for match-fixing — dismantling this model would open the door to illegal betting and hurt clubs.
The signatories called for action against illegal operators, stronger oversight and improved safeguards, but not the destruction of the regulated market. The clubs said they are ready to work with government, Congress and local authorities on education and information initiatives.
