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Brazilian president vows to keep betting ban in place

President Lula insists the betting ban will stay as political tension rises before the election.

Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 23 October 2026

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva made it clear that the current betting ban will remain in place. He spoke during a recent livestream just days before the presidential runoff vote. The wagering requirement was not stated in the text.

Financial worries and serious concerns

Lula mentioned that he spoke with young people who fell into heavy debt because of gambling. Some individuals accumulated debts ranging from thousands of reals. He also pointed to tragic reports of people taking their own life after suffering massive financial losses.

Election race and market rumors

A recent public opinion poll showed a tight race between Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro. Rumors spread that betting operators might resume their activities if the opposition wins the election. However, those claims rely on unconfirmed sources and remain entirely speculative.

Legal hurdles ahead for operators

Bringing the legal betting sector back on track requires a formal court decision or new government action. A Supreme Federal Court justice has not made any rulings on the challenges yet. Furthermore, lawmakers must approve any permanent ban through Congress.

Tax revenue numbers

Tax collection figures show that authorities gathered billions from gambling and betting taxes by September. This total already exceeds the tax collection figures recorded across the entire previous year. The wagering requirement was not stated in the report regarding these taxes.