HanzBet Ceases Operations in Brazil Amid Dispute with License Holder
Brazilian betting operator HanzBet, a sponsor of football club Botafogo-SP, announced it will cease operations in the Brazilian market as of July 31 due to a conflict with Entretenimento e Esportes LTDA (EA), the entity responsible for the operational license.
What Happened
HanzBet, one of Brazil’s notable betting platforms, is shutting down operations following an internal shareholder dispute and a falling-out with EA Entertainment and Sports Ltd., which holds the local license.
The website will remain online until July 31 solely to allow users to withdraw remaining funds. Account registrations, deposits, and betting features have already been disabled. Customers are advised to withdraw their balances before the deadline.
Service Restrictions Effective July 21:
- Registration: Closed
- Deposits: Disabled
- New Bets: Unavailable
- Only Feature Available: Balance withdrawals
Statement from Founder Eduardo Perez
Company founder Eduardo Perez accused the license holder of unilaterally removing the original founders from management and breaching previously agreed terms.
“We were excluded from all administrative and financial activities, including the board of directors. The brand’s closure was announced without our consent or involvement,” Perez stated.
According to Perez, the situation escalated following the introduction of gambling market regulations in Brazil. Despite signed agreements, enforcement now depends on legal proceedings that take time—already resulting in serious consequences for users.
Key Points from Perez’s Statement:
- Three Years of Operation: HanzBet has been active for over three years
- License Control: Held by EA Entertainment
- Liquidity Issues: Operational funds withdrawn, making customer payouts impossible
- Reputational Damage: Affects not just the founders, but also clients and the broader industry
Official Notice from HanzBet
The following message was posted on hanz.bet.br:
Hanz.bet.br announces that operations will cease on July 31, 2025. Until then, the site will be accessible for balance withdrawals only. Registration, deposits, and gameplay features are disabled. We thank all users for their trust and partnership. For inquiries, please contact customer support.
Meanwhile, the founders claim that clients are currently unable to access funds, as the partner allegedly withdrew all liquidity from the operating accounts.
Outlook and Next Steps
Eduardo Perez stated that legal documentation is being prepared. The HanzBet team is ready to defend both its interests and those of affected clients through legal action.
“We are acting with respect, transparency, and responsibility toward everyone impacted by this situation,” he added.
Comparison Table: EA’s Official Position vs. HanzBet Founders’ Claims
| EA Entertainment | HanzBet Founders |
|---|---|
| Announced brand closure | Were not involved in the decision |
| Claims funds can be withdrawn | Alleges account liquidity has been removed |
| Controls license and finances | Removed from management without notice |
Conclusion
The HanzBet case highlights the critical importance of transparency and asset control in gambling industry partnerships. Clients should monitor updates closely and make sure to withdraw any remaining funds before the end of July.