Brazil Advances Bill to Restrict Gambling Advertising During Sports Broadcasts

Brazil is moving closer to implementing stricter rules on gambling advertising, as a new bill progresses through the legislative process.

According to Agência Senado, the Senate Sports Commission has approved the proposed legislation and referred it to the Senate Plenary for further debate. If passed, the bill will advance to the Chamber of Deputies for consideration.

The bill outlines several key advertising restrictions aimed at reducing gambling visibility during sports content. Under the proposed rules:

1. Gambling ads would be banned during live sports broadcasts but permitted 15 minutes before and after matches.

2. Live broadcast odds would only be allowed on operators’ websites or mobile apps, not on television.

3. TV and online gambling adverts would be restricted to a 7.30pm to midnight window.

4. Radio advertisements would be permitted between 9am–11am and 5pm–7.30pm.

5. All printed gambling advertisements would be completely banned.

The legislation also seeks to restrict the use of high-profile individuals in gambling promotions. Active athletes, celebrities, and media figures would be prohibited, though former athletes retired for at least five years may be used in campaigns.

Further provisions include:

1. Static and electronic gambling ads in stadiums or sports venues would only be permitted if the operator holds official sponsorship or naming rights.

2. Clubs would be limited to one betting sponsor per team shirt.

3. Gambling brands may be mentioned in sports programme promotions between 9am and 6pm, but cannot promise winnings or reference odds or bonuses.

4. All advertising must adhere to content rating standards, and social media ads would only be allowed if directed at verified users aged 18 or over.

The bill reflects Brazil’s continued effort to balance the regulation of its newly legalised betting market with measures to promote responsible gambling and protect vulnerable audiences.