São Paulo council backs first vote to curb betting ads as Corinthians monitor fallout | OneFootball

São Paulo City Council has approved, in a first vote, a bill to restrict betting advertising across the capital. According to Meu Timao, it passed by symbolic vote with no recorded opposition, and clubs are watching closely.

A second vote is still required, and no date has been set.

Proposed by councillor João Jorge, MDB, the bill would ban betting ads at events run by public or private entities in city spaces, public or private. The curb covers boards, banners and panels at sports venues.

Sanctions would range from a R$ 50,000 fine to a two-year bar on staging events. Clubs and the São Paulo Football Federation have met to shape their opposition.

Last week Corinthians, Palmeiras, Santos, São Paulo and Juventus, the capital's Paulistão first-division clubs, met at FPF headquarters with representatives of betting firms tied to clubs and state competitions.

Corinthians are sponsored by Esportes da Sorte, whose logo sits in the prime shirt slot. The deal is worth up to R$ 200 million a year and runs until the end of 2029.

Clubs fear a financial hit since betting is a major source of sponsorship, and a São Paulo-only curb could leave them behind rivals in other states.

Separately, a federal provisional measure under discussion could tighten rules for online betting and gaming, possibly banning some virtual games. It is still being drafted, and would take effect on publication, then go to Congress where it could be amended or rejected.

Source: Meu Timao

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