New Betting Rules in Brazil: Esports Included in the Official Disciplines List
The Ministry of Sports of Brazil (MESP) has published Decree No. 36, dated April 17, 2025, which introduces significant changes to the country’s sports betting legislation.
The document was published in the official gazette on April 23, 2025, and updates the list of sports disciplines eligible for fixed-odds betting.
Key Changes in Legislation
The updated decree addresses several important aspects, including:
- Inclusion of more than 35 new disciplines, including both traditional sports and less popular ones.
- Permission for betting on esports tournaments, but only with a license from game developers.
- Prohibition of exclusive contracts between game developers and bookmakers.
- Establishment of the principle of equal access for all market participants.
These changes aim to develop and expand the sports betting market in Brazil, with an emphasis on offering a wider range of disciplines and ensuring competitiveness.
New Sports for Betting
Decree No. 36, dated April 17, 2025, significantly expands the list of sports on which bets can be placed.
Betting is now allowed not only on popular sports like football and basketball, but also on less common disciplines.
Here are some of the new disciplines included in the list:
- Motorsport (including rally)
- Capoeira
- Darts
- Floorball
- Pool
- Football in “X1” format (one-on-one)
The inclusion of these disciplines gives players the opportunity to bet on a wider variety of events, expanding the market and attracting new participants.
Esports in the Official Disciplines List
One of the most significant changes is the inclusion of esports in the list of official disciplines for betting. This is the first time in Brazil that betting on esports tournaments is allowed.
However, to place such bets, a license from the developers or copyright holders of the video games is required, which makes the process more transparent and regulated.
Additionally, the decree prohibits game developers from entering into exclusive contracts with a single bookmaker. This decision aims to prevent the creation of monopolistic conditions in the betting market and promote competition among operators.
Regulation and Equal Conditions for All Participants
The updated decree also establishes obligations for all participants in the sports betting market to adhere to the principles of free competition and equal access. This is crucial for ensuring fairness and transparency in the betting market.
The Ministry of Sports will maintain an up-to-date and publicly accessible list of disciplines allowed for betting, ensuring that players can be confident in the legitimacy of their activities.
Decree Implementation and Prospects
Decree No. 36 takes effect as of its publication, meaning the changes are already in force. The Ministry of Sports of Brazil will continue to update the list of authorized disciplines, including new sports such as esports, depending on their popularity and official recognition.
Key Points from the Decree:
- Exclusive contracts between game developers and bookmakers are prohibited.
- All market participants must adhere to the principles of free competition.
- Over 35 new disciplines for betting are included, including sports like capoeira and floorball.