Brazil’s Football Match-Fixing Scandal Sparks Urgent Reforms in Sports Betting

A major match-fixing scandal has rocked Brazilian football, putting the integrity of the nation’s most beloved sport in question. The Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (CPI), led by ex-football legend Romário, will release its final report this week. Months of investigation have exposed serious manipulation linked to sports betting, prompting calls for urgent reform.

CPI Investigation Uncovers Deep Corruption

In April 2024, Brazilian authorities launched the CPI after Botafogo owner John Textor accused São Paulo players of fixing a top-flight match. His claims triggered a full-scale inquiry, with Romário spearheading the investigation. As evidence mounted, it became clear that match-fixing had infiltrated various levels of Brazilian football.

Low-paid athletes have been approached by criminal networks promising foreign contracts in exchange for rigging games. Similarly, financially desperate club executives have fallen into these traps. Romário stressed that this is not just a local issue—it demands global cooperation.

Proposed Legislation to Combat Match-Fixing

To address the crisis, Romário introduced three new bills aimed at closing legal loopholes and strengthening penalties. These proposals could mark a turning point for Brazil’s sports betting laws.

Harsher Sentences and New Crimes

The first bill increases the maximum prison sentence for match-fixing from six to ten years and introduces steep fines. It also defines “fraud in the betting market” as a separate crime. Athletes using insider information to bet would face prosecution under this law. Additionally, the bill punishes those spreading false betting odds, a growing issue in the digital era.

Stricter Controls on Prop Bets

The second bill tackles prop betting—wagers on minor events like fouls or yellow cards. These bets are highly susceptible to manipulation and have played a role in recent scandals. Romário argues that regulating or restricting prop bets is vital to safeguarding the integrity of the sport.

Safeguards for Bettors

The third bill focuses on consumer protection. It proposes mandatory warnings about the dangers of gambling and the introduction of a national self-exclusion program. This system would allow problem gamblers to block themselves from accessing betting platforms, helping prevent addiction.

Push for Constitutional Changes

Romário’s report also suggests amending Brazil’s Constitution. The change would make it mandatory for citizens to comply with CPI summonses, with police enforcement if necessary. This recommendation follows a court ruling that allowed influencer Deolane Bezerra to avoid testifying in a gambling-related case. Romário believes such evasions could undermine the entire investigation process.

High-Profile Indictments Recommended

The report seeks indictments against several individuals tied to match-fixing. Among them is Bruno Tolentino, accused in a 2024 manipulation case. He is also the uncle of national team player Lucas Paquetá, who faces a separate investigation in the UK for spot-fixing.

Romário also named businessmen William Pereira Rogatto and Thiago Chambó Andrade for potential prosecution. On the other hand, Bruno Lopez—who admitted to fixing matches—won’t face charges due to a plea agreement with prosecutors.

Political Reactions Stir Controversy

While Romário’s efforts have received praise, critics argue that the investigation overlooked key issues. Senator Eduardo Girão, a known opponent of gambling, criticized the report for ignoring allegations involving Congressman Felipe Carreras. A recent exposé accused Carreras of seeking bribes from betting firms in exchange for political protection.

Girão also questioned the appointment of Geovanni Rocco as Brazil’s sports betting secretary, citing concerns over his pro-gambling views. He warned that unresolved issues could jeopardize the effectiveness of future reforms.

The Future of Brazilian Football

As the CPI concludes, the path forward depends on how effectively Brazil enforces these proposed reforms. Restoring public confidence will require not only stricter laws but also transparency and international collaboration. With sports betting growing rapidly, safeguarding the integrity of football is more critical than ever.