Brazilian football clubs are protesting after President Luiz Inácio “Lula” da Silva signed a decree banning online betting, casinos, and advertising by gambling companies. 

The initiative was announced on September 25 and will take effect immediately, although it requires congressional approval within 120 days. Lula will also submit a bill to incorporate gambling offenses into the Criminal Code and stiffen penalties against illegal betting.

Flamengo President Luiz Eduardo Baptista criticized the ban in a Monday interview on the club’s official YouTube channel, saying it undermines the institution’s financial commitments, since online betting companies are one of Brazilian football’s biggest sponsors.

“In Argentina, they’re celebrating this,” said Baptista, adding that the initiative will........

© Buenos Aires Herald