Google Continues to Block Betting Apps in Brazil — Even After Legalization

The Ban Is Still in Effect

Despite the legalization of the sports betting market in Brazil in early 2025, Google continues to ban betting apps from appearing in the Play Store.

Currently, only lottery apps from Caixa Econômica Federal and horse racing apps are available in the store.

The company has confirmed that its policy remains unchanged:

“As of today, Google Play’s policy in Brazil only permits a limited range of gambling apps — namely, Caixa lotteries and horse racing. Any policy updates are evaluated separately,” the official Google statement reads.

iOS Allows — Android Blocks

Google’s stance raises questions among industry participants, especially considering that betting apps are available on the iPhone’s App Store, and bookmaker advertising is allowed both in Google Search and on third-party platforms.

According to industry representatives, this policy appears contradictory:

“Google blocks the apps themselves but allows advertising for the same sites. It doesn’t make sense,” notes one market participant.

Why It Matters

Being listed in official app stores is key to user trust. The ABFS (Brazilian Association of Betting and Fantasy Sports) emphasizes:

• Users are more likely to download apps from trusted sources.
• Stores can verify whether the operator is licensed.
• This helps separate the legal market from the illegal one.

Support from Authorities

In response to Google’s policy, ABFS reached out to the Ministry of Finance for support, but no official response has been issued so far.

However, back in 2024, the ministry published detailed regulations for the sector, paving the way for licensing.

What’s Happening Now