Esportes da Sorte and Reals Join Brazil’s Approved Betting Operators List
Esportes da Sorte and Reals have secured positions on the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets’ (SPA) approved operators list in Brazil. This move enables them to continue providing betting services ahead of the country’s regulated market launch in January 2024.
Details on Approval
The approval of Esportes Gaming Brazil, owner of Esportes da Sorte, and Reals marks a significant milestone as they join 98 operators authorized during the transition period. A total of 217 brands are allowed to operate between 1 October and 31 December under temporary regulations. Esportes Gaming Brazil gained approval after securing a court order and acquiring a controlling stake in ST Soft, a tech platform licensed by the Rio de Janeiro State Lottery (Loterj).
Legal Disputes
The regulatory framework faces complexities as Loterj engages in a legal dispute with the federal government over extending state licenses nationwide. This case, brought before the Supreme Federal Court on 14 October, highlights the ongoing regulatory challenges in Brazil’s betting market.
Operator Investigations and Exclusions
Despite its approval, Esportes Gaming Brazil is under investigation for alleged illegal gambling and money laundering activities connected to its owner. This investigation forms part of the broader “Operation Integration,” which led to several arrests in September. Meanwhile, operators such as VaideBet and Zeroumbet remain excluded from the SPA list, with Zeroumbet pursuing legal action over its omission.
Sponsorship Reactions
Esportes da Sorte’s earlier exclusion from the SPA list triggered a sponsorship suspension by Athletico Paranaense, which removed the operator’s branding from its kits and stadium. In contrast, Corinthians maintained its partnership with Esportes da Sorte, expressing trust in the company while requesting updates on its legal status and operations.
Esportes da Sorte’s addition to the approved operators list stabilizes its presence in Brazil’s evolving betting market. However, ongoing investigations and legal battles, along with future regulatory decisions, will play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of betting sponsorships and operations in the country.
