TLDR Four Brazilian presidential candidates support a total ban on sports betting platforms A Folha de S. Paulo survey found regulated betting generated R$12.2 billion in public revenue in 2025 No candidate has proposed how to replace lost tax revenue if betting is banned President Lula’s campaign favors stricter regulation, though he personally hinted at supporting a ban Tax proposals from candidates range from raising rates above 50% to investigating operators for money laundering
Brazil’s 2026 presidential race has split candidates over what to do about sports betting. A new survey from Folha de S. Paulo shows where each contender stands on the issue.
The survey found that four candidates want to ban betting platforms outright. Others prefer stricter rules, higher taxes, or programs to address gambling debt.
Regulated betting brought in R$12.2 billion in public revenue during 2025. That figure sits at the center of the debate, since no candidate has explained how the government would replace it if betting were banned.
Where Candidates Stand on a Ban
Renan Santos of Missão is among those backing a full ban. Candidates from PSTU, PCB and UP share this position, though none has addressed the lost tax revenue.
UP describes betting as a crime against the popular economy. PSTU and PCB have said they would protect betting companies’ assets from being seized.
Ronaldo Caiado of PSD takes a different approach. He wants tougher rules and a ban on betting ads across television and social media, calling household debt a public health problem.
President Lula’s campaign has called for improving the current regulatory system rather than banning it. His platform proposes keeping the spending cap in place and monitoring household debt tied to gambling.
The plan also calls for more public mental health services for compulsive gamblers. But Lula